By Jerry Finzi, Grand Voyage Italy

Citrus fruits were brought to Italy via Sicily by the Arabs around 850 AD. Its warm climate and mild, sea breezes are perfect conditions for large-scale cultivation of many types of citrus.

At first, only bitter and yellow oranges were grown, though over time, sweeter, loose-skinned and even red varieties were developed.

The climate and local conditions in the plain of Catania, near its volcano, is the only place in the world growing Sicilian blood oranges.

Sicilian citrus groves are found throughout the island region. There are also Mandarins, Tangerines, Cicilian Lemons, and Limette (Sicilian Limes).