Francesco Selvaggio

Francesco Selvaggio, born and raised in Palermo, has a degree in architecture with a concentration on historic restoration and a thesis dedicated to the Sicilian landscape. Francesco loves the life of a Trip Leader because it allows him to pursue passions such as hiking in the Sicilian countryside and teaching trip members about the history and architectural wealth of his island. "I love the magnificent churches of my land, but every single building in Sicily has a story to tell. In Siracusa, the main church is Baroque but it still features the original colonnade of a Greek temple!" Francesco currently lives in and is restoring a 16th century house overlooking the cathedral in downtown Palermo. Other of his passions include collecting old tiles for the houses he restores, reading up on Sicilian history, restoring antique furniture, canoeing, and cooking traditional Sicilian food. He speaks English, Greek, French, and can read and understand ancient Greek and Latin.

Upcoming Trips:

Hiking in Sicily, April 13-22, 2012
Hiking in Sicily, May 12-21, 2012
Hiking in Sicily, September 8-17, 2012
Hiking in Sicily, September 30-October 9, 2012

Client Testimonials:


Francesco was an excellent leader and very knowledgeable. He is upbeat and his love for Sicily was apparent. Neil C, Swandscott, NH
Hiking in Sicily Francesco was wonderful. A great, positive attitude and so ready to help with anything. Rosalie B, Great Alpine Traverse Francesco is warm, friendly, good natured, and fun to be with. He is a complete professional. Barbara Quinn, Oakdale New York, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands
Francesco is an outstanding guide, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful, and very warm. Stephen W, New Haven CT, Sicily & the Aeolian Islands Francesco was knowledgeable, fun, and personable. He packed a lot of natural and social history into our trip and I sincerely appreciated his efforts. Diane C, Manchester MO, Sicily & the Aeolian Islands