From the metropolitan expanse of Catania in the shadow of magnificent Mount Etna to the layered climbs of hillside Modica, from the coastal charms of ancient Siracusa to the postcard beauty of hilltop Ragusa, from the picturesque fishing villages of Aci Costello and Aci Trezza to the baroque splendor of Noto, southeast Sicily is an unceasing feast for the eyes.
Southeast Sicily is a region to be explored by car. The contrasting diversity of scenic landscapes littered within a relatively small geographical area makes for several days of fascinating touring opportunities.
The most important date in history for southeastern Sicily is not the devastating volcano eruption of Mount Aetna in 1669, but rather January 11th, 1693, the day of the most important earthquake in the history of Italy. The four-minute earthquake at about 9pm on that infamous day destroyed virtually all of southeast Sicily, killed two thirds of what was left of the population of Catania, the main city in the area, after the earlier volcano eruption, and left few buildings intact throughout the region.
And that explains why southeastern Sicily, despite all of its ancient and illustrious Greek and Roman history, offers but a few ruins from antiquity (such as the ancient Greek theatre of Neapolis on the outskirts of Siracusa) and instead displays an unequalled treasure of Baroque structures built during the massive early 18th century reconstruction of the area after the earthquake of 1693.
Catania
Ravaged by the volcano eruption of 1669 and totally leveled by the later earthquake of 1693, newly re-designed, more modern Catania was erected on the ruins of the old city. Wider streets, larger multi-story Baroque buildings featuring a sea of attractive balconies give the city a warm, inviting and unique feel.
Siracusa
Re-built Siracusa, on the other hand, followed the same plan as the ancient town, so tourists today can still get lost in the maze of narrow alleys.
Noto
The Spanish, who ruled Sicily at the time of the 1693 earthquake, decided to re-build Noto in a different location from the destroyed town, henceforth known as Noto Antica. The new Noto showcases the grandest Baroque churches, convents and other public buildings we’ve ever seen in a small town.
Ragusa and Ragusa Ibla
The hilltop towns of Ragusa and adjacent Ragusa Ibla, both World Unesco Heritage sites, are a photographer’s delight for the sheer beauty of their setting and their collection of stunning Baroque churches and buildings.
Aci Costello and Aci Trezza
Aci Costello and Aci Trezza are two small picturesque fishing villages near Catania.
Spring and fall are the best times to enjoy Sicily. Put it on your bucket list!
Stay tuned to BonVoyageurs.com for more Countries of the World as we share our joie de vivre from around the world. Luxury escapes, cruises and city breaks to Quebec City, New York, Washington, Buenos Aires. In Europe, places like Paris France, Nice France, Provence and the Cote d’Azur (French Riviera), Tuscany and Florence in Italy, Rome, Napoli and the Amalfi Coast. In Asia, countries like China, India, Nepal and so much more!
Anne Woodyard (@MusicandMarkets) says
What a splendid place – I’m eager to visit! And fabulous photos – thanks for sharing!
Paula McInerney says
Sicily has been on my radar for quite a while and now you have painted a very convincing article for road tripping Southeast Sicily. Nice.
Betsy Wuebker | PassingThru says
Loved the explanation of the realities and relationships between architecture and the volcano events. The Ragusas look amazing.
Donna Janke says
Lovely buildings and beautiful scenery – I can see how this makes for great touring. I enjoyed reading about how the earthquake and volcano affected the architecture we see today.
Sue Reddel says
We are definitely planning on visiting Sicily it’s just a matter of time. Thanks for sharing the beautiful photos and history.
Sachiphanan says
Impossible to find better Places . . .and great photos!