Great Continental Railway Journeys (2012)

S7E4 Palermo to Mt Etna

Using his 1936 edition of Bradshaw’s Guide, Michael Portillo embarks on a journey to the picturesque island of Sicily, renowned for its stunning landscapes and captivating scenery. However, the guide also reveals that Italy is under the rule of the fascist leader, Benito Mussolini. Traveling by train from Palermo to the historic town of Agrigento and the port city of Siracusa, he delves into the realities of Sicilian life during this oppressive regime. Michael investigates Mussolini's battle against the mafia and questions the infamous saying about trains running on time under his rule.