Sicily is abundant in superlatives, many of which refer to ancient world treasures. One of the three most perfect temples in the Greek world may be seen in Agrigento’s Valley of Temples. One of the largest Greek temples is located in Selinunte. Villa Romana del Casale in Enna is one of the best-preserved villas in the Roman Empire, with more than 37674 sq. ft. (3,500 sq. m) of mosaics. Ragusa and Modica are twin towns that symbolise Europe’s pinnacle of Baroque art. Monreale’s beautiful mosaics and fine cloister are both considered European art highlights, and Palermo’s Archaeological Museum has one of Italy’s best collections. Mount Etna, continental Europe’s highest active volcano, and the nightly display from Stromboli, in the surrounding Aeolian Islands, are two of Sicily’s most dependable natural wonders. You’ll enjoy Sicily’s lively local culture and spirited people in addition to its tourism attractions.
(1) The Valley of Temples in Agrigento
(2) Mount Etna
(3) Ortigia
(4) Palermo
(5) Cefalù
(1) Agrigento’s enormous complex of temples and tombs dates back to 500 BCE and features Sicily’s best surviving Doric temple (Tempio di Concordia), which is one of the most perfect to survive anywhere. In the eastern group, the Tempio di Juno Lacinia is nearly as large, while in the western group, the Temple of the Olympian Zeus is the largest at 131 ft. (40 m) but was damaged by an earthquake. Also in the western group, the circular Doric Tempio di Heracles was destroyed by the Carthaginians and reconstructed by the Romans, only to be partially damaged in an earthquake.
(2) Etna is a mystery; even its height fluctuates with each eruption, making it impossible to predict. However, with its often-smoking cone and height of over 9843 ft. (3,000 m), it dominates the skyline. Volcanic vents, fumaroles, hot springs, and lava flows contribute to the region’s ever-changing topography, which you may explore on foot or in all-terrain vehicles. Roads lead to the cable car station, where you can take a day excursion from Catania or Taormina to the 8202 ft. (2,500 m) elevation. Skiing near the top is possible in the winter. A narrow-gauge train circles the mountain almost completely, or you can drive around it, passing through towns with castles, ancient sites, and beautiful landscapes.
(3) Ortigia is a small island in Syracuse, Sicily, that serves as the historical heart of the city. Many historical landmarks may be found on the island, which is also known as the Città Vecchia. Syracuse’s Città Vecchia (Old City) is a maze of streets that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was fortified by the Greeks, who also built temples to Apollo and Athena. One of these, which was incorporated into the cathedral in the 7th century, still exists today. For more than two centuries, it was used as a mosque before being re-Christianized by the Normans, who added the mosaics. Ortigia is a fantastic spot to get a sense of what life is like in the area. Stroll down the Foro Italico promenade and take a break on a shady bench to take in the beauty of the sea.
(4) Car horns blare continuously, the summer sun is merciless, and opening hours appear to be flexible in Palermo. But take your time. It’s also a charming city, with sweet pastries filling the air, backstreets leading to pretty squares, and mosaiced churches dotting the landscape. In Palermo, you can’t avoid history. Arabic cupolas, Baroque facades, Byzantine mosaics, and Norman remains to abound throughout the city. However, there is now a modern art scene in Palermo, as well as cutting-edge cuisine and a plethora of new lodging options.
(5) Cefalù is a northern Sicilian beach city. It’s famous for its Norman cathedral, a fortress-like structure with magnificent Byzantine mosaics and soaring twin towers dating from the 12th century. The Mandralisca Museum, located nearby, houses archaeological artefacts as well as a photo gallery featuring a portrait by Antonello da Messina. To the west are the beaches of Mazzaforno and Settefrati.