Vespiamoci Sicily 2024: A Journey to Caltagirone

From 19 to 22 July, Vespa Club Malta embarked on an exhilarating adventure across the Mediterranean to Sicily, joining the 5th Caltagirone National Rally—an event celebrated for its vibrant culture, rich history and of course, its deep-rooted Vespa tradition. Our trip, aptly named Vespiamoci Sicily 2024, was more than just a journey; it was an exploration of friendship, local hospitality and the timeless charm of Sicily. We were a group of 27 members and 19 Vespas, adding to the excitement of the trip.

The Adventure Begins

Our adventure commenced with a warm welcome from our friends at Vespa Club Noto in Vespa and Vespa Club Grammichele. These clubs went above and beyond to showcase the beauty of their cities.

As we made our way towards Caltagirone, our spirits were high, buoyed by the scenic drive and the anticipation of the upcoming events.

After a morning relaxing by the pool, the event officially began with the Raduno Registration, where we immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and prepared for the exciting days of festivities. The buzz of anticipation filled the air as we registered and met fellow Vespa enthusiasts from all over Sicily.

Cultural Immersion

The heart of the trip was the lighting of the artistic installation “Vespa sulla Scala” at the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte. This spectacular creation by Prof. Antonio Navanzino, adorned with colourful tiles from the Mario Russo family, was a sight to behold. The ceremony was enhanced by a poignant presentation from Councillor Claudio Lo Monaco, who explained the symbolic significance of the Scala’s illumination.

Local Hospitality

Our Sicilian journey was enriched by the hospitality of our hosts. On the last day of the radon, we set off for Piazza Marconi, where Vespa Club Caltagirone and city authorities greeted us warmly. The day included a helmet blessing ceremony and a scenic Vespa tour through the Nuova area, showcasing the Baroque marvels of Caltagirone’s historic centre.

The final day concluded with a hearty lunch at the Parco degli Ulivi restaurant, followed by a heartfelt awards ceremony and farewell greetings. The connections made and memories created during Vespiamoci Sicily 2024 will be cherished for years to come. The blend of Vespa culture, Sicilian charm and the warm hospitality of our hosts made this rally an unforgettable experience.

Special Thanks

A heartfelt thank you goes to our President, Sergio Camilleri and Therese, whose meticulous planning ensured our rides throughout the trip were smooth and enjoyable. Their dedication and attention to detail made this adventure seamless and memorable.

We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to the group who stayed behind when we encountered some mechanical trouble—Alan, Manuel, Mario, Wayne and Sergio. Your support and perseverance in dealing with the unexpected challenges were invaluable, and your dedication helped ensure that all of us made it back to Pozzallo safely.

A special mention is deserved for our youngest members, Markus and Jacques, the honorary president of the pillion’s committee. Their enthusiasm and spirit added a unique charm to our journey, making it even more special.

And let’s not forget Ian and Mario, who made sure we adhered to our program with German precision. 🤪

Farewell and Reflections

As we rode back to Malta, our hearts were full and our spirits high, reflecting on the wonderful moments shared and the new friendships forged. Vespiamoci Sicily 2024 was not just a trip; it was a celebration of life, culture and the spirit of the Vespa community. We look forward to our next adventure and the opportunity to create more lasting memories.