Our Mission
Aeolian Roots was created to reconnect Aeolian descendants across the world with the land, culture, and people of their ancestors.
Our mission is to promote the Aeolian Islands as a destination for roots tourism — a journey that goes beyond travel, offering a chance to rediscover identity, family stories, and belonging.
Through cultural projects, storytelling, and authentic experiences, we aim to preserve the memory of migration and celebrate the living heritage that unites the islands with their global community.
A Story of Departure and Return
From the late 1800s, the Aeolian Islands — Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi, and Alicudi — witnessed waves of emigration caused by hardship and change.
The phylloxera epidemic destroyed the vineyards that once sustained local families, forcing many to leave in search of new opportunities.
Later, after the Second World War, thousands more departed for Australia, the Americas, and other parts of the world.
Today, their descendants form a vast, vibrant diaspora — proud of their origins and eager to reconnect with the islands of their ancestors.
Preserving Memory
In the village of Malfa on Salina, the Aeolian Museum of Emigration preserves this collective history.
Created by the International Research Center for Aeolian History and Culture (C.I.R.C.E.), the museum gathers letters, photographs, objects, and documents that tell the human story of departure and hope.
It reminds us that emigration is not just a story of leaving — it is also one of courage, resilience, and love for one’s homeland.
A Bridge Between the Islands and the World
Aeolian Roots continues this mission by giving new life to that connection — offering Aeolian descendants everywhere a way to rediscover their roots, explore their family heritage, and experience the islands through local culture, food, and community.
We believe in a shared future, where culture, tourism, and memory come together to strengthen the bond between the Aeolian Islands and their global family.
Promoted by Salina Ecogastronomica
The project is promoted by Salina Ecogastronomica, an organization active in tourism services, cultural communication, and territorial promotion on the island of Salina.
Through this initiative, we aim to build collaborations with institutions, associations, and individuals who share our vision of sustainable, identity-based tourism for the Aeolian Islands.