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The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily, has always held a special place in Bugatti's storied history. Between 1925 and 1929, the Bugatti Type 35 dominated the 540-kilometer Targa Florio race held on the island, securing five consecutive victories. This record still stood when the last race took place on Sicily's public roads in 1977. Even today, in the centenary year of the Type 35, the Bugatti community reveres Sicily. This year, the International Bugatti Meeting took place on this historic island from May 19 to 25, offering participants an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.
AN ISLAND OF BEAUTY AND CULTURE
Covering over 1,000 km in just a few days, the convoy of 66 cars – ranging from Type 13s to Type 57s – traced the paths of their predecessors along meticulously planned routes. They drove through historical towns such as Noto and Marzamemi, with Ettore Bugatti’s masterpieces exploring the island’s baroque architecture and ancient fishing villages. This drive offered participants a chance to appreciate the intricate design and engineering of their Bugatti vehicles while soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Sicily.
DRIVE ON MOUNT ETNA
A highlight of the tour was the trip around Mount Etna. Participants navigated the winding roads, passing through chestnut forests, vineyards, and lava flows. The sight of Grand Prix racers and vintage Bugatti sports cars maneuvering through this landscape was truly spectacular. They paused for a coffee break at a traditional restaurant on Etna’s slopes, where they savored local delicacies against the backdrop of breathtaking views.
SICILIAN HERITAGE
The Val di Noto, in the heart of Sicily, is renowned for its Baroque architecture, which tells the story of the past with every stone. The imposing churches, sumptuous palaces, and charming squares are a testament to human creativity and timeless beauty, recognized and celebrated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The journey continued to Marzamemi for an excellent lunch by the sea, followed by a return to the hotel where a special evening program awaited the guests.
ANCIENT GREEK THEATRE IN SYRACUSE
Participants enjoyed an open theater night in Syracuse, where they witnessed a classic Greek tragedy in the ancient Greek Theatre. This experience highlighted Sicily’s Hellenic roots and its cultural importance stretching back over 2,000 years, offering a profound connection to the island's ancient heritage.
LEGENDARY CRAFTSMANSHIP
The final day of the trip took the group through the picturesque Sicilian hinterland, where they were inspired by the masterful local craftsmanship during stopovers. For Bugatti enthusiasts, who cherish the brand's attention to detail and handwork, it was a reminder of the timelessness of skilled craftsmanship.
Throughout their 1,000 km journey, the guests of the International Bugatti Meeting experienced a unique blend of beauty, culture, and history. The event offered an unforgettable flashback to the 1920s and celebrated the magical and unrepeatable Type 35 Targa Florio supremacy. This gathering of historically significant Type 35s and other important Bugatti models on Sicilian soil was a tribute to Bugatti's enduring legacy.
Conclusion
The International Bugatti Meeting 2024 in Sicily was a spectacular event that combined stunning landscapes, cultural treasures, and a rich automotive history. For those passionate about classic and vintage cars, such as the Bugatti, this event showcased the timeless beauty and engineering excellence of these legendary vehicles. Explore more about classic Bugatti models and other prestigious brands at Auto Trader UAE, where you can find a wide selection of used luxury cars in Dubai.
