Sicily with the Preservation Resource Center: An Architectural & Cultural Odyssey

September 27 - October 7, 2025

Dear PRC Explorers,

We invite you to embark on an immersive 11-day architectural and cultural journey through the heart of Sicily with the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans. Dive into the island's rich mosaic of culture led by a dozen local experts on diverse topics as we explore ancient Greek and Roman temples, opulent Baroque churches, charming medieval towns, and contemporary life.

Wander through the captivating streets and palaces of Palermo, marvel at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and uncover hidden architectural gems of Siracusa. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with hands-on experiences like a cooking class, private concerts, and a visit to a traditional Sicilian puppet maker's atelier.

Indulge in delectable Sicilian cuisine during exclusive culinary experiences at local farms and wineries, savoring authentic flavors and regional specialties. From the slopes of Mount Etna, to scenic countryside drives, and the enchanting island of Ortigia, this expertly curated tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will ignite your five senses and leave you with a deep appreciation for Sicily's remarkable history, preservation efforts, and cultural treasures.

Danielle Del Sol
Executive Director
Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans

Program Details

Double occupancy: $6,775 (per person)
Single occupancy: $8,175

PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Non-refundable deposits of $750 are due to Project Por Amor upon signing up to secure a space. Full payment of the final balance is due by June 26th, 2025.

Spots will be given on a first-come-first-serve basis, 15 travelers need to make deposits by May 1st in order for this program to go. All funds will be refunded if the minimum is not reached. We encourage you to sign up while there is still availability.

NOTE: Airfare is not included. Several flights on major airlines flying to Palermo are available. You can purchase online or through your preferred agent. Project Por Amor will offer guidance on when to book and answer any questions you have.

Program Price Includes:

  • Flight purchasing guidance, pre-trip information on preparing for Sicily

  • Accommodations for ten nights in select small independent, locally owned, 4-star hotels in Palermo, Agrigento, Siracusa, and Catania

  • Diverse perspectives from 12 expert guides with specialties in architecture, archeology, history, cuisine, art, music, and more throughout the entire program

  • Culinary experiences including nine lunches at artisan markets, scenic farms, olive oil mills, country manors, vineyards, and cooking classes; two dinners at popular urban restaurants in Palermo and Catania; and daily Italian breakfasts at our hotels

  • Walking tours of Palermo's central historic core, Ortygia, Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Taormina

  • Cultural activities such as visits to a traditional Sicilian cart painter, the atelier of a puppet maker with private performance, a baroque concert in the 'Le Stanze del Genio' palace, a flute and bagpipe nature concert, and many others (see itinerary for details)

  • Tours of archeological sites such as the Valley of the Temples, Archaeological Museum of Agrigento, Neapolis Archeological Park, and Taormina’s Greek Theatre

  • Guided visits to a botanical garden, private garden tour of San Giuliano, Mafia and Anti-mafia center in Corleone, and the Majolica museum

  • Nature excursions include a sunset catamaran boat tour with aperitivo, scenic drives, and Mt Etna 4X4 volcano tour

  • Afternoon/evening opportunities free to relax or explore individually

  • Full-time luxury coach 28-seat bus with chauffeur transportation (includes airport transfers)

  • 24-hour program management by expert Project Por Amor owner Sage Lewis, PRC staff, and local tour leader

Program price does NOT include:

  • Airfare from people’s home cities to Sicily

  • Eight dinners on your own

  • Tips for Sicilian tour leader, chauffeur, and accommodation services

  • Third-party trip interruption insurance

  • Hotels and other services outside of Sicily

  • All other items not listed in ‘PROGRAM PRICE INCLUDES’

An island rich in cultural contrasts

Sicily is a living mosaic of ancient civilizations of Phoenician, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, Greek, Roman, Carthaginian, Tunisian, and Italian rule. Their cultural blend has resulted in some of the most diverse architecture, food, language, and genetics in Europe.

New Orleans ancestry

Driven by economic hardship and political unrest in the late 19th century, thousands of Sicilians embarked on steamships bound for New Orleans. This wave of immigration significantly shaped the city's cultural landscape. Sicilians established themselves in the French Quarter, creating a vibrant community known as "Little Palermo." They dominated the fruit trade, bringing their agricultural expertise to the bustling markets. Despite facing prejudice and challenges, they persevered, contributing to the city's unique culinary heritage with dishes like muffuletta and influencing its musical traditions. Over time, Sicilian immigrants and their descendants integrated into the fabric of New Orleans, leaving a lasting legacy on the city's identity.

Our route

A trip of a lifetime.

  • "Five star all the way. Superb planning, timing and interests. Great leaders, lectures, sights, food, hotels experiences and transportation. Cannot imagine a better introduction and understanding of Cuba than we were able to attain from this travel opportunity. The other travelers in the program were an integral part of making the tour such a memorable experience. Thank you!"

    Loren Rice

  • "I had an extraordinary trip to Southern Iceland with Project Por Amor. All of the details of the trip were finely thought out to provide an exceptional experience. I greatly appreciated the intimate experiences of visiting artist studios and homes for conversation, viewing visual art and listening to musical performances. The landscape sights the group visited were amazing and otherworldly as well."

    Elizabeth Wilcox

  • "This trip to Cuba was honestly the best travel experience I've ever had. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned, the activities were all amazing, and the leaders were beyond expectations. I can't recommend this tour enough. It was a great honor to participate in this once in a lifetime adventure."

    Kathleen Elliot