The Aeolian Islands are the perfect place for 'off-the-beaten-track' holidays to Sicily inspired by the mythical symbol of Odysseus and Aeolus.
The stunning Aeolian Islands are the perfect area for visitors looking for more 'off-the-beaten-track' holidays to Sicily. I've found it's not just the spectacular natural beauty of this volcanic archipelago that draws correspondingly many people, but then the sheer sharpness of culture, myths and legends entwined throughout its ancient history.
Over my years arranging holidays to Sicily, I've discovered the interesting legend of Odysseus' visit to the demigod Aeolus's at a loose end kingdom often inspires visitors once an amalgamation in mythology to explore the region further.
Aeolus – Master of the Wind and King of the Islands
Legend tells us that Zeus, the great god of express and thunder, bestowed upon Aeolus the capability to command the winds. Aeolus, son of Hippotas, lived like his wife and many kids on a beautiful drifting island called Aeolia, protected from the sea by its ragged bronze cliffs.
Odysseus' return to Ithaca
After his legendary escape from the Cyclops, Odysseus (the King of Ithaca, introduced in Homer's epic sham 'The Odyssey') and his crew arrived to the island, seeking respite from many months at sea. Welcomed by Aeolus, Odysseus and his men spent a month resting and enjoying his hospitality.
When it came mature for Odysseus to begin his voyage put up to to Ithaca, he appealed to his further friend to put up to him resolution the journey in safety. As master of the winds, Aeolus agreed, placing the winds into a pouch made from ox skin and presenting it to Odysseus. following the winds imprisoned in the bag, the boat would enjoy a safe, calm passage. The isolated wind Aeolus left free was the fine West Wind, which would blow the ship directly towards Ithaca.
After instructions to Odysseus that below no circumstances was he to retrieve the pouch, Aeolus bade him send-off and the crew set sail for Ithaca. After 10 days at sea, in which Odysseus barely slept, he sighted his beloved home and relaxed his vigil, falling into a deep sleep within just a few miles of his home.
Greed and good Wind
While Odysseus slept, his crew began to speculate as to what viable riches Aeolus had unadulterated him in the pouch. Wanting a portion now they were approximately home, they were overtaken by hoarding and opened the pouch - finding not treasure, but the talent and might of all the winds in the world. The ensuing squalls blew the ship all the artifice encourage to Aeolia, and the irate Aeolus refused to back up Odysseus any further.
The Odyssey Continues
With no prevailing winds to assist them upon their voyage, Odysseus and the get off of the Greek fleet were forced to row, and their bordering port of call proved lethal. They encountered the home of the Laestrygonians, and the giant cannibals killed and ate many of the men. solitary Odysseus' vessel escaped and he journeyed upon to the island of Aeaea. There he encountered the exquisite but enormously risky goddess Circe - and the Odyssey continued…
Whether your holidays to Sicily bow to in a few days or a couple of weeks, for an off-the-beaten-track experience, I terribly suggest a visit to probe the Aeolian Islands – although I'm scared I can't guarantee a fine west wind.
Article Tags: Aeolus Odysseus, Aeolian Islands, Ithaca After
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