Guide of Filicudi

Filicudi is an island in the Aeolian Sea, to the north of Sicily. This island lies in the middle of the Mediterranean and is dominated by an extinct volcano called Fossa Felci. The population of the island is less than two hundred people, distributed across the island in various locations that are all connected by only one paved road and some small pedestrian streets.

A brief history of Filicudi

The island owes its name to the fern plants that grow here in abundance. The island was already inhabited in ancient times, and some artefacts suggest the presence of a population living here during the Neolithic period. In the 1960s excavations began around Capo Graziano, revealing artefacts that date back to the Bronze Age and a village that developed around the fifteenth century BC. Filicudi remained uninhabited until the Greek age, while during the Roman era there is evidence of people living near the harbour. The island continued to be inhabited throughout the Byzantine age and a small necropolis was discovered, with tombs cut into the rock.

Places to see in Filicudi

The previously mentioned archaeological site, Capo Graziano is interesting to explore, at the top of the hill there is a sacrificial altar, where tools and artefacts have also been found. Near the port, in the area called "case lopes" there are the remains of another prehistoric village. There are also the remains of a Roman villa, located between the slopes of Mount Capo Graziano and Porto beach. An unusual place to visit is Shrimp Cave, you can scuba dive amongst all the shrimps that live here. The Gianfante rock is another great scuba spot worth, it's a volcanic rock formation that resembles an elephant and rises up out of very deep water.

Beaches in Filicudi

The island is full of coves and small bays surrounded by crystal clear water, you can get to wonderful beaches by boat or on foot and there's no fear of overcrowded beaches on this remote island. Near the port, there is a pebble beach with crystal clear water and the remains of the prehistoric village from the islands first inhabitants. A small path leads you to a volcanic beach called Le Punte in the south of Filicudi and it has a spectacularly deep blue water. Pecorini mare beach is also very beautiful, it has a crystal clear water and polished pebbles and is often occupied by colourful little fishing boats. Finally, don't miss Grotta del Bue Marino, which is a stunning cave that is best visited by boat.