[1] The island was first populated as long ago as 17th century BC, as some archaeological evidence from this period has been found.

Roman ceramic fragments, dating from many centuries later, can be found on the eastern coast of the island.

In more recent times, the island became known for its alleged witches and sorcerers whose explanation has come to be attributed to ergotism in local grain-based foodstuff which, due to scarcity, was consumed regardless of the fungal infection.

[2] In 1807, King Ferdinand IV created the title of Count of Alicudi in favor of the Spanish diplomat Alonso de Rivero.

There is only one restaurant on the island and the menu depends greatly on what fish the local fishermen have caught, or what food supplies the hydrofoil brings.