Elk Grove Village Italian Sister Cities incorporated in October 2000, joining the Village of Elk Grove, Illinois, with the City of Termini Imerese, Sicily, Italy. This bond was formed after a 1999 visit to Termini by a village trustee on other matters who noted the similarities between the two communities and the enthusiastic willingness of Termini’s mayor to form a sister city relationship with Elk Grove.
History of Termini Imerese
Wedged between the sea on the northern coast of Sicily and the steeply-rising slopes of Monte San Calogero, Termini Imerese is a city rich in history and cultural integration. Its name derives from the Latin "Thermae Himerness" or "Hot Springs of Himera." Remains of arched Roman aqueducts are visible at Termini Imerese. Its culture has also been influenced by Greek colonists, invading Carthaginians, Saracens, Normans and others.
Bond of Friendship
Wedged between the sea on the northern coast of Sicily and the steeply-rising slopes of Monte San Calogero, Termini Imerese is a city rich in history and cultural integration. Its name derives from the Latin "Thermae Himerness" or "Hot Springs of Himera." Remains of arched Roman aqueducts are visible at Termini Imerese. Its culture has also been influenced by Greek colonists, invading Carthaginians, Saracens, Normans and others.
Commonalities
Both cities are located near major international transportation facilities: O’Hare International; and Palermo, Sicily, a major Mediterranean seaport. Both cities are located in a major metropolitan areas, centered around large cities: Chicago and Palermo. Both communities have populations of approximately 30,000. Both communities have a large industrial area.
