The Aeolian Islands are the absolute area for 'off-the-beaten-track' holidays to Sicily inspired by the mythical tale of Odysseus and Aeolus.
The stunning Aeolian Islands are the absolute 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 therefore many people, but plus the sheer extremity of culture, myths and legends entwined throughout its ancient history.
Over my years arranging holidays to Sicily, I've discovered the fascinating legend of Odysseus' visit to the demigod Aeolus's floating kingdom often inspires visitors subsequently an assimilation in mythology to scrutinize the region further.
Aeolus – Master of the Wind and King of the Islands
Legend tells us that Zeus, the good god of flavor and thunder, bestowed on Aeolus the capacity to command the winds. Aeolus, son of Hippotas, lived later his wife and many children on a beautiful wandering island called Aeolia, protected from the sea by its ragged bronze cliffs.
Odysseus' compensation to Ithaca
After his legendary leave suddenly 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 grow old for Odysseus to begin his voyage back up to Ithaca, he appealed to his other friend to assist him conclusive 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. later than the winds imprisoned in the bag, the ship would enjoy a safe, alleviate passage. The solitary wind Aeolus left pardon was the fine West Wind, which would blow the ship directly towards Ithaca.
After instructions to Odysseus that under no circumstances was he to edit the pouch, Aeolus bade him farewell and the crew set sail for Ithaca. After 10 days at sea, in which Odysseus barely slept, he sighted his beloved estate 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 feasible wealth Aeolus had conclusive him in the pouch. Wanting a allocation now they were nearly home, they were overtaken by hoarding and opened the pouch - finding not treasure, but the skill and might of all the winds in the world. The ensuing squalls blew the boat every the mannerism incite to Aeolia, and the irate Aeolus refused to incite Odysseus any further.
The Odyssey Continues
With no prevailing winds to support them upon their voyage, Odysseus and the stop of the Greek fleet were forced to row, and their next-door harbor of call proved lethal. They encountered the land of the Laestrygonians, and the giant cannibals killed and ate many of the men. by yourself Odysseus' vessel escaped and he journeyed upon to the island of Aeaea. There he encountered the exquisite but agreed dangerous goddess Circe - and the Odyssey continued…
Whether your holidays to Sicily agree to in a few days or a couple of weeks, for an off-the-beaten-track experience, I severely suggest a visit to study the Aeolian Islands – although I'm scared I can't guarantee a good west wind.
Article Tags: Aeolus Odysseus, Aeolian Islands, Ithaca After
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