Holocene paleosalinity reconstructions from two adjacent lakes in coastal Sicily have different trends and values.

An abrupt rise in paleosalinity at 6250 cal yr BP at Lago Preola is attributed to the intrusion and diffusion of sea water.

Paleosalinity of Gorgo Basso was highest during the early Holocene, and lowest during the last 2000 years.

Gorgo Basso’s decline in salinity during the late Holocene reflects increased effective moisture.

Isotopic data indicate relatively more early Holocene winter precipitation than during the late Holocene.