Blog Archives
duomo
Here’s the back of the Duomo di San Giorgio; the building was completed in 1775 after a 37-year construction period.
If you’re a fan of Italian television*, you may recognize it from the opening credits of the series Inspector Maltalbano. Although you can’t tell by looking at this photo, the building is also featured in a recent image that I’ve posted.
Ragusa Ibla, Sicily
photographed 9.7.2022
*Or have Amazon Prime video.
behold: the goat
In late August of 2021, I was in Boston and had lunch with my friend Don Toothaker; he was very excited to tell me about a photo adventure to Sicily that he was planning. The thing that stuck with me (other than his unbridled enthusiasm) was when he said, “We’ll see goat cheese in the markets AND then GO SEE THE GOATS.” I was intrigued, even though it took me nearly a half a year to talk myself into taking the trip.
Don’s enthusiasm for the trip was not misplaced or exaggerated. Going on the trip was definitely one of the smarter decisions I’ve ever made.*
And look! Here’s the goat I’d been promised. The breed is Girgenti; they are indigenous to the Sicilian province of Agrigento. And they will be your best friend if you scratch their heads just behind their horns.
near San Biagio Platini, Sicily
photographed 6.6.2022
*Not that there is necessarily a lot of competition.
this felt like a secret
This looks like a scene from a World War II movie, with the rubble, the courtyard, the motorcycle hiding in the shadows. And while there was significant and pivotal action on the island during the way, I am pretty sure this scene wasn’t a relic.
So, how pivotal was the action in Sicily? Here’s what History.com has to say:
The invasion of Sicily, code-named Operation Husky, began before dawn on July 10, 1943, with combined air and sea landings involving 150,000 troops, 3,000 ships and 4,000 aircraft, all directed at the southern shores of the island. This massive assault was nearly cancelled the previous day when a summer storm arose and caused serious difficulties for paratroopers dropping behind enemy lines that night. However, the storm also worked to the Allies’ advantage when Axis defenders along the Sicilian coast judged that no commander would attempt amphibious landings in such wind and rain. By the afternoon of July 10, supported by shattering naval and aerial bombardments of enemy positions, 150,000 Allied troops reached the Sicilian shores, bringing along 600 tanks.
Sciacca, Sicily
photographed 9.2.2022
fisherman, with shrimp and a cigarette
In the afternoon, when the fishermen return with the day’s catch, the port is very busy. There are commercial buyers who come to get fish for tomorrow’s markets. There are local residents who want some fresh shrimp for dinner. And, on this particular day, there were photographers who were probably in the way of people who had actual reasons to be there. (Not that photography is not an actual reason, but you get the point.)
Also, this guy? Do you like his cigarette hovering over that tray of shrimp?
Sciacca, Sicily
photographed 9.5.2022
wednesday night at quattro canti
Our neighborhood in Palermo was perfect for our photographic explorations; it was easy to fill our time with wandering through the streets. There was always something interesting to see, and, naturally, to photograph. The streets were vibrant, full of activity.
This is at the intersection known as Quattro Canti, the center of the historic quarters of the city. It was always busy, and nighttime made for some interesting photos.
Have I mentioned how much I loved Sicily?
Palermo, Sicily
photographed 8.31.2022
One Day | One Image 