Santa Marina Salina
Santa Marina Salina: a corner of paradise in Sicily
If you are looking for a small town on the Sicilian coast where you can enjoy a relaxing vacation, Santa Marina Salina may be the ideal destination for you. This municipality, located on the island of Salina, in the Aeolian Islands archipelago, offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and culture.
Physical geography
Territory
Santa Marina Salina is located on the eastern part of the island of Salina, at the foot of Mount Fossa delle Felci, the highest point of all the Aeolian Islands, where the vegetation is lush and varied. The municipality's territory reaches the sea, where the town's beach resort is located, where you can find shops and nightclubs. In the south area, the village of Lingua is located, near a saltwater lagoon that gave its name to the entire island.
Climate
The climate of Santa Marina Salina is Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers, and mild and rainy winters. It is ideal for those looking for a vacation at the beach, but who wish to avoid excessively hot temperatures.
Origin of the name
The name of Santa Marina Salina comes from the cult of Marina of Bithynia, to whom the Church of Santa Marina is dedicated, the main place of worship in the town. The cult spread on the island from the sixteenth century, probably brought by settlers of Venetian origin, exiles from various Mediterranean locations due to the progressive reduction of the territories of the Republic of Venice conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
History
The island of Salina, inhabited since the 5th millennium BC, was colonized by Greek people in the 3rd millennium BC and became the main center of the island in the Doric period. In later times, the island was conquered by various civilizations, including Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs. In the twelfth century, the island was populated by refugees from Amalfi, who landed in Malfa. In 1867 Salina was ordained as an autonomous municipality, separating from that of Lipari.
What to visit
Church of Santa Marina
One of the main places of interest in Santa Marina Salina is the Church of Santa Marina, dedicated to the patron saint of the town. The construction dates back to 1580, but it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1693 and later rebuilt. The interior is spacious and bright, with valuable works of art.
Mount Fossa delle Felci
Mount Fossa delle Felci is the highest point of the entire island and offers breathtaking views of the coast and the other islands in the archipelago. It can be reached through a series of trails, but it is advisable to enlist a local guide to avoid getting lost.
Lingua Village
The village of Lingua, located south of the municipality, was an ancient salt production center. Today, the small village is a pleasant seaside destination and offers suggestive views of the saltwater lagoon.
What to do
Beach
Santa Marina Salina is a perfect place for beach lovers. The town's beach resort offers sandy and pebble beaches, with crystal clear and transparent waters. It is possible to rent boats to discover the coast and dive into the sea.
Trekking
Mount Fossa delle Felci offers numerous tracks for trekking enthusiasts, who can discover the local fauna and flora. During the excursion, you can admire incredible panoramic views of the coast.
Conclusion
Santa Marina Salina is a small jewel of Sicily, where you can spend relaxing days at the beach while discovering the history and nature of the island of Salina. A perfect destination for those looking for a corner of paradise away from the chaos of cities.
