Visit Filicudi
Filicudi is one of the group of Aeolian islands situated off the north-eastern coast of Sicily. As with all the islands in the group it is of volcanic origin.
Filicudi is an island made up of several layers of lava, the oldest of which is located in the sea in front of 'Fili di Sciacca'. (The area's largest and oldest layer is the so-called 'Fossa delle felci' ["Bollow Ferns"] and the most recently that of 'Montagnola'.)
Explore Filicudi
A very scenic island, the focus of Filicudi is around Valdichiesa and the port - Porto Pecorini. The main monument in Valdichiesa itself is the Church of Saint Stephen.
The natural environment consists of steep and rocky slopes separated by valleys and cliffs, often wooded and running down to the sea, where caves are also found. Among the highlights from a scenic point of view are the cliffs, boulders and sea views at Rupi delle Sciare and Punta Perciato.
Filicudi is also well known for the diving opportunities it offers in the clear waters around the attractive coast - especially attracted by the caves at the water line such as the Grotta del Bue Marino. Those seeking to enjoy the wildlife of the shore often head for the Grotta dei Gamberi or the sandbank at Secca dei Sei Metri.
Many of us don't dive of course but no problem, we can still enjoy the natural environment - there are boat trips around the island that leave from the port on Filcudi and provide excellent scenic and photo opportunities.
The beauty of the island is highly reputed and since the 1970s the island has become popular with photographers, artists and authors including Roland Zoss a songwriter and novelist. Every two years there is an Art Biennale in which many artists participate.
About three-quarters of Filicudi has been turned into a Natural Reserve.
Prehistoric Filicudi
Filicudi is also well known for the prehistoric settlements that existed here in the Bronze Age, especially on the Capo Graziano peninsula where the remains of oval huts have been identified as being part of a substantial village.
Likewise a second, later village has been identified on the hill at nearby Montagnola which existed until the 13th century BC. it is possible that the village relocated to the hill at Montagnola because of its better defensive position - a move that was perhaps successful from the 16th - 13th centuries BC, but after which the complete disappearance of the village suggests a violent end.
You can find more local travel ideas in the North Sicily guide,
Map of Filicudi and places to visit
Filicudi places to visit
