A beautiful Italian island could soon become a top tourism hotspot after featuring in a film Hollywood set with an all-star cast.
Christopher Nolan has announced that he will film much of his new film The Odyssey on the island of Favignana, off the northwest tip of Sicily in the Egadi archipelago.
The film, set to come out next year, is based on the ancient Greek epic poem by Homer which follows Odysseus during his 10 year journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War.
It will star Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Matt Damon, Elliot Page, Mia Goth, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o.
Favignana is an island of pale sand beaches, cliffsides covered in Mediterranean scrub and whitewashed hamlets. It was in this location that Homer’s Greek hero Odysseus came ashore and roasted goats.
Other scenes will be set on the equally idyllic Aeolian islands lying off the northeast of Sicily.
In the epic poem, Odysseus visits the mythical island of Aeolia to get a magical bag of winds from Aeolus, the ruler of the island and god of winds.
According to Claudia Emanuel of boutique tour operator Emotional Sicily, the Aeolian islands offer experiences suited to every travel style.
Adventure seekers can explore volcanoes, trek through rugged landscapes, or sail between the islands. Ms Emanuel said: “Night sailing around Stromboli to witness Sciara del Fuoco, the lava cascading down the volcano, is an unforgettable experience.”
Favignana offers a blend of natural beauty and leisurely island exploration. Ms Emanuel recommends hiking up to Castello di Santa Caterina, an ancient fortress perched on the highest point of the island, or visiting La Tonnara Florio, an old tuna fishery with a fascinating history.
The best months to visit Favignana are May to June and September to October when the weather is warm but the crowds are smaller.
July and August are peak seasons, with more tourists and higher prices, but are also the best time for a lively atmosphere.
The Odyssey will be Nolan’s first film after the success of Oppenheimer in 2023, which grossed nearly £800 million and won Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars.