Leni
Welcome to Leni: A Forgotten Island Worth Visiting
Hello everyone and welcome to Leni, a small municipality located in the Aeolian Islands archipelago, in the metropolitan city of Messina in Sicily. With only 682 inhabitants, it might seem like a place forgotten by God, but in reality, this hidden location between the sea and the mountains is a true gem to discover.
Physical Geography
Leni is located on the island of Salina, a volcanic island that is part of the seven Aeolian Islands. It is a particularly mountainous and rugged area, rich in a wide variety of trees and vegetation, including Eucalyptus globulus, Cypress, Acer pseudoplatanus, Cedrus deodara, and others.
On the coast, there is the port of Rinella, one of the few places suitable for landing, with the hamlet of Rinella also offering a spectacular view of the sea. The main inhabited area of Leni is instead located about 200 m above sea level inland, in a hollow between the two mountains of the island. Here you will also find the hamlet of Valdichiesa.
Climate
The climate is typically Mediterranean, with sunny and hot summers and mild winters.
Origins of the Name
The name Leni seems to derive from the Greek word "lenós" which means wine press. This name is, in fact, connected to wine production, and we find a bunch of grapes in the municipal coat of arms. Another theory suggests that the name derives from the Greek personal name "Eléne".
History
The island of Salina has been inhabited since the 5th millennium BC and has been colonized by the Greeks, probably the Aeolians, since the 3rd millennium BC. This is demonstrated by some archaeological finds in the hamlet of Rinella and on Mount Fossa delle Felci.
After the Greek period, the island was ruled by various civilizations including the Romans and the Byzantines, before the Arab conquest in 840. In the 12th century, the island was then populated by refugees from Amalfi, who landed in Malfa.
Finally, in 1867, the island of Salina became an autonomous municipality, separating from that of Lipari. Later, in 1909, the municipalities of Leni, Santa Marina Salina, and Malfa separated, becoming three separate administrative entities.
Symbols
The symbol of Leni is a coat of arms representing the island of Salina seen from the sea, topped by a bunch of grapes. The banner is a blue banner with the municipal symbol above it.
What to Do in Leni
If you are nature and trekking lovers, Leni is for you. This mountainous area is a great opportunity for long walks. A trip to the summit of Mount Fossa delle Felci and Mount dei Porri will not disappoint.
For sea lovers, Rinella offers a beach where you can enjoy the Sicilian sun and azure waters. But if you love snorkeling or a bit of fishing, you could rent a boat and sail off the coast.
Leni is also the ideal destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. The churches of San Bartolomeo and Maria SS Addolorata are just some of the historical monuments that you can visit.
Finally, a must-visit stop for those visiting Leni is the "Il Cappero" winery, where you can taste the famous Malvasia delle Lipari wine and sample some typical Sicilian cuisine dishes.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for an escape from the city and a break from hectic life, Leni is the place for you. Nature, beaches, history, and culture are all elements that come together in this corner of Sicily. Come and visit us!
