Lou Mendola is recognized as one of Sicily's foremost literary voices, with a significant following that extends beyond Italy's borders. Over three decades, his scholarly work has been published widely, establishing him as an authority. His writing often explores the rich tapestry of Italian history, art, culture, and language.
Targeting the adventurous traveler, this guide offers insights beyond the typical tourist experience in Sicily. It caters to those seeking hidden gems and unique cultural encounters, ensuring a deeper understanding of the island's rich history and diverse landscapes. With a focus on lesser-known attractions and local traditions, it invites readers to explore Sicily in a way that goes beyond the usual recommendations, making it ideal for those looking to experience the island like a local.
This work represents the first comprehensive study in English of the political and social history of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, which thrived under five Bourbon kings from 1734 until its annexation by unified Italy in 1861. Formed in 1816, the Two Sicilies united Naples and Sicily, becoming the largest and most prosperous of the pre-unitary Italian states. At its peak in 1860, it had a treasury surpassing all other Italian states combined and housed Europe's largest royal palace in Caserta. The kingdom was the most industrialized in Italy, introducing the first railroad, public pension plan, unemployment benefits, and recycling system. Its cultural contributions, including spaghetti, pizza, and early chocolate recipes, have significantly shaped perceptions of Italian culture. This volume offers a true narrative of a semi-forgotten kingdom, appealing to Italophiles, travelers, historians, researchers, and descendants of the region. It highlights the unique Mediterranean identity of southern Italy, focusing on Naples and Palermo, while challenging common stereotypes. The book includes a timeline, photographs, maps, genealogical tables, and informative appendices, drawing from original sources like royal decrees and eyewitness accounts. It presents the story of the Two Sicilies as an epic narrative integral to the identity and culture of its people.
This informative supplement to the author's Queens of Sicily 1061-1266 further explores the queens' use of power and the Sicilian cultural identity forged by these women. Chapters are dedicated to topics such the queens' suppression of adversaries, reginal patronage, titles and heraldry, words spoken by the queens, court cuisine (including recipes) and poetry (with original translations of a number of poems of the Sicilian School), places the queens lived, sexuality and marriage, and more. A chapter lists work by fellow historians. As a cornerstone in the emerging field of Sicilian queenship, this book begins a new conversation in medieval women's studies, laying the foundation for work to come.
