Unveiling Islamic Sicily

A Transformative Retreat into Heritage and Spirituality
International Students of Islamic Psychology - ISIP Italy chapter, invites you to an extraordinary retreat that delves deep into the rich heritage of the Islamic Sicily—a place where history, art, and spirituality intertwine.

🌟 Muslim Sicilian History:
Unravel the story of Islam’s influence in Southern Italy, from its arrival in the 9th century to its transformative impact on language, science, architecture, and agriculture. Witness the enduring legacy of this period in landmarks like the Palatine Chapel.

🌟 Traditional City Life:
Explore Palermo, the enchanting city where urban design preserved relationships, privacy, and safety, offering a spiritual escape from materialism.

🌟 Sacred Spaces:
Gain insights into the principles that define sacred architecture, exploring sacred geometry and the cultural significance of Islamic buildings in Sicily.

Retreat Details:
- Dates: Sun May 25th, 2025 - Thurs. May 29th 2025
- Location: Palermo, Sicily  {Hotel : Hotel Casena Dei Colli, https://www.casenadeicolli.it/}
- Pricing: 610 Euro total; 200 Euro, First Installment to Secure Spot, due by February 5th, 2025.                                               Price Includes: Accommodation, breakfast + one meal per day, lectures with experts and guided tours. Transportation (Flight and taxi) is not included.

Booking will close on the 5th of February, 11.30 pm Rome time.

Airport: Falcone Borsellino Palermo Airport (PMO, LICJ) (25 km from hotel)

Language: English (with Italian upon request) General schedule: Daily prayers, Talks, Museum and Guided Tours, Time for Connection + Rest. The retreat will facilitate times for rest as well during the day.  (A more detailed schedule will be provided for those who register). 

Annalisa is our ISIP Italy Lead and will be the Retreat Manager. She studied Education Sciences at the University of Reggio Emilia and is a passionate and dedicated educator since 2012 who has worked in different settings including International Kindergartens in both Europe and Muslim Countries. She also holds a Diploma in Islamic Psychology and is the founder of AYAT-Heart, Mind & Soul Refinement. She will be at your service for the whole retreat.

Scholars for this Retreat:

Antonio Maurizio Loiacono, born in Reggio Calabria in 1981, graduated with honors in Society, Cultures and Institutions of Europe, with a research thesis on the Arab presence in early medieval Calabria, which earned him the Anassilaos Giovani 2016 Award. During his PhD, obtained in 2021, the topic was further explored. He was a lecturer in the subject for three years at the University of Messina, and is a member of the Italian Society of History of Religions. He is the author of several articles and of the monograph "History of the Arabs in Calabria" published by Città del Sole. His PhD thesis is currently being published.

Mohamed A. El-Gendy is a student of metaphysics and a researcher specialising in traditional Islamic architecture. He focuses on the symbolism and craftsmanship of architecture grounded in sacred geometry. His work aims to illuminate the significant meanings behind these designs and buildings. Currently a PhD candidate in Sociology at the University of Cambridge, El-Gendy examines political and social history. Additionally, he investigated the role of Egypt's warrior castes, including the Mamluks, 1100-1400. He is also a student of traditional Islamic knowledge, having studied with leading scholars such as Sheikh Mohamed Mehanna, Sheikh Yusri Gabr, and Sheikh Abdal Hakim Murad. In addition, El-Gendy serves as the curator of Mamluk Architecture for the Silk Road Virtual Museum.

Why join this retreat? 

This is more than a tourism trip—it’s a chance to connect with your heritage, gain deeper insights into Islamic history from expert scholars, and immerse yourself in the artistry and spirituality of a bygone era. This retreat will also facilitate making cherished memories and connections to other Muslims from around the world in a wholesome Islamic environment where we will encourage each other in the remembrance of God as we spend time together. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or seeker of spiritual experiences, this retreat promises something for everyone. This retreat is open to adult men and women, any child under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. (For any special accessibility needs, please send an email to Annalisa with the inquiries).

📌 Spaces are limited! Reserve your spot today and be part of this unforgettable exploration of Islamic Sicily.

For further inquiries, please contact us at isipitaly@gmail.com. (Replies within 48 hrs)

📌IMPORTANT NOTE: Flight tickets should be purchased only after you are contacted by our ISIP Italy Manager, Annalisa, on the 6th of February.