Villa Romana Del Casale

The Roman Emperor Maximian built this villa in 3 AD.  Thanks to a flood in the 12^th century, the villa was buried in mud, which preserved it until it was discovered in the late 19^th century.  The mosaics, which decorated every room in the villa, are some of the best preserved through the centuries.  It appears from the mosaics that Maximian had a wild life.

Taormina

Toured only parts of Taormina.  We will come back later in the week.  Tony and Angleo (the cook) are the two owners of the Restorante L’Incontro, who introduced us to the fisherman who supplies all the fish for the restaurant.  We met lots of people today, so Rex spoke German to the Germans, Italian to the Italians with a little Dutch and Spanish – lots of laughs.

Mount Etna

Drove up Mount Etna, which is Europe’s largest active volcano at 10,892 feet.  The cable car took us to 2,500 feet.  It was like being on the moon.

Villa Donna Franca

On Saturday, Oct 12, 2013, we arrive at Villa Donna Franca.  Part of a large estate where they grow lemons, limes, and oranges.   Have a view of Mount Etna and only 15 minutes from Taormina.