Sicilian carts turn up in the most unexpected places. This one is in the castle in Milazzo. They are a work of art. The sides and base depict scenes from Sicilian folklore and history in bright reds and yellows, the colours of the Sicilian flag. Apparently they were first crafted in the late 1700s when the construction of roads began on the island, previously only accessible by sea. The wheels are large so as to tackle the mountainous roads which were (and still are!) full of obstacles, potholes and usually built on steep inclines. They were used to transport food. In my forthcoming novel, Via Montecastro, the cart belonging to one of the protagonists has a pivotal role.
Bronagh Slevin 
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