I'm back! Help me name this plant!

These strange semi-succulents were on every terrace at the Belvedere where we stayed. I really liked them, though at first I thought ours was dead. I imagine some of you Southerners and Southwesterners will know this. I have never seen it offered in any greenhouse around here.

BTW, for those who would like to see more Sicily images, here's a link: Taormina images. You won't have to sign in, join up, sell your soul, or anything.