The island of Sicily, without exaggeration, can be called the most picturesque corner of Italy. An impressive territory, surrounded by the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, seemed to have been torn off by some invisible force from the Apennine Peninsula and carried away at a distance of three kilometers from it. The uniqueness of the island also lies in the fact that its shores are washed by three seas at once, which is why the little-known name of Sicily – Trinacria – was used by the ancient inhabitants.

Church of La Martorana in Polermo

The most popular bridal church is La Martorana, which is located in picturesque Palermo. Its architecture attracts with an unusual combination of two seemingly incomparable styles: Baroque and Arab-Norman. And in our time the cathedral works and receives guests. If you are not planning to play a wedding, it is worth visiting this fabulous place, if only for the sake of fresh impressions. Just imagine, inside you will find an amazing Byzantine mosaic that has been preserved since the 12th century! By right, it can be considered the oldest not only in Italy, but also far beyond its borders.

The most valuable mosaic plots are those dedicated to the founders of the church. One depicts George of Antioch, who lies at the feet of the Mother of God. Another depicted the ancient ruler of the island – Roger II – on whose head Christ himself puts a symbol of power. Unlike Catholicism, the Byzantine faith provided for the kings to receive power directly from God, and not from his viceroy on earth – the Pope. Initially, the church was built in the shape of a Greek cross. A little later, it was rebuilt, but you can still see the original form of the cathedral today.

Val di Noto

Sicily also has its own architectural masterpiece, which was called the “Sicilian Baroque”. We are talking about the Val di Noto, the settlements of which were subjected to colossal destruction as a result of the earthquake. It was in this place that unique architectural masterpieces were born, which today are included in the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.

There are eight cities in the valley, each of which can captivate your heart forever. Curvilinear forms, which can be found everywhere, are actively intertwined with unusual surroundings in the form of grinning masks and forged ornaments on the balconies. The image of each house or structure is complemented by the amazing beauty of the stairs, as well as numerous figurines of cupids. The final touch in the ideal image was the use of volcanic stone, which has an unusually dark color. Renaissance architects call these cities ideal cities. Squares, streets and entire blocks create an unusual, simply grandiose panorama, as if allowing you to look at the world through the eyes of brilliant creators.

Villa del Casale in Piazza Armerina

Since the time of the ancient Roman civilization in Sicily, a unique monument has been preserved – Villa del Casale. You can find it just 5 km from Piazza Armerina. In ancient times, it was one of the most luxurious palaces, which was famous for its floor mosaics. You can look at the masterpiece decoration today. As soon as tourists cross the threshold of the building, they cannot restrain their emotions: here and there you can hear enthusiastic exclamations and laudatory odes to the brilliant builders from antiquity.

Of greatest interest is a mosaic depicting ten girls who personify ten sports: running, throwing a discus, playing with a ball and others. Today this story is known as “Girls in Bikinis”. There are many other mosaics that depict hunting, chariot races, and even erotic scenes. Until now, historians and scientists have not been able to reliably reproduce the intended purpose of each of the premises. It is assumed that the northern and western parts were reserved for baths (an ancient water supply system was found here). In the eastern part there were private apartments of the owners of the palace, and the northern wing provided for bedrooms for guests and rooms for servants.

Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

Do you want to see real ruins that have survived from ancient times? Then you definitely need to get to know the city of Agrigento! It is here that you will get the feeling that you are in a place where myths live, where man is in complete harmony with nature, where people still continue to worship the ancient gods and fantastic creatures. This is the Valley of the Temples. Once here, you will be able to get acquainted with the monumental works dedicated to Zeus, Vulcan and other representatives of the celestial family. Here are the famous temples of the Dioscuri, as well as the Temple of Concord.

The most luxurious to this day is the Temple of Zeus, which is almost not preserved. It was built by slaves in the 5th century BC. by the personal order of Heron. Initially, the project provided for the placement of the temple on a huge area – 6.5 thousand square meters. km! And the main decoration of the temple were two 7.5-meter statues of titans. One still lies near the ruins of the complex, and the second has replenished the collection of exhibits of the Archaeological Museum of the city. But the Temple of Concord has been preserved in the best possible way. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the shrine was rebuilt in the 7th century, turning into the Church of Saints Paul and Peter. Thanks to this, every guest of the city today can enjoy this architectural monument.

Capuchin catacombs in Palermo

This museum can easily claim the title of the most extraordinary. In fact, the catacombs are the usual cluster of galleries in which the remains of the Sicilian nobility rest. Underground buildings date back to the 16th-19th centuries. Today, this tomb attracts a huge number of fans to stare at mummies.

It is interesting that all the galleries are divided into several classes: tombs for the nobility, for priests, representatives of certain professions. For all visitors, without exception, acquaintance with the catacombs causes a mixed feeling of delight and disgust. After all, not everyone can understand how it is possible to treat the dead so disrespectfully.

Mount Etna

Finding yourself in Sicily and not visiting its main attraction – Mount Etna – is the same as going to a pizzeria and not ordering anything! It is to this natural phenomenon that the island owes its appearance. The black and white top of Mount Etna can be seen from any corner of the island. This is not just another attraction against which every tourist should be photographed. This is a symbol of Sicily, a unique volcano, which has no analogues anywhere in the world. As in ancient times, the volcano is a huge mystery to mankind. Even today, when the most intelligent creature on the planet has state-of-the-art equipment at its disposal, not all the secrets of this place have been learned.

If you put aside fear and figure out for yourself how dangerous the volcano and life at its foot are, it turns out that everything is not so bad. Although volcanic eruptions periodically spoil the mood of the native Sicilians, they have learned to adequately respond to the awakening of the “neighbor”. By the way, it is Etna that the local winemakers owe to the fertile soil and the unique taste of grape wine. For tourists there is an excursion program that allows you to take a fascinating walk to the top along one of the routes. Experienced guides will make the walk not only exciting, but also safe. After all, the volcano is characterized by a huge number of craters, the activity of which is difficult to predict.

Puppet Museum in Palermo

Italy is considered not only the birthplace of pizza, spaghetti and the mafia. It was in this country that the first puppets for the theater appeared. Piero, Artemon, Malvina – all these names are of Italian origin. And today you can see amazing collections of puppets in special exhibition centers and museums.

Sicily is also famous for its doll museum, which opened its doors to visitors in 2006. The uniqueness of the exhibition center lies in the fact that the exhibits presented are the result of the painstaking work of entire dynasties of puppet masters. Only here you can see the first dolls that were created back in the 16th century!

Knights, monsters, angels and devils – all this is full here. In separate halls, whole performances with the participation of puppets are organized, serious events unfold with an unpredictable ending. And everyone who is ready to spend only 7 euros can become a witness to this enchanting action!

Palazzo Normanni in Palermo

Another attraction of the island cannot be ignored – the Palazzo Normanni. It was from here that Sicily was ruled by its many kings, and today representatives of the island parliament are doing the “just cause”. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to see all the galleries of the Royal Palace today. Access to many parts of the building is restricted.

But even a cursory acquaintance with one of the most unique architectural monuments, which combines Byzantine, European and Arabic styles, will be quite enough to experience a real uplift.

Rabbit Beach in Lampedusa

Lampedusa, part of the Pelagie Islands, is located in southern Sicily, not far from Africa. Lampedusa has unique traditions, original gastronomy and beautiful nature. An ecologically clean place where rare sea turtles live and the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center operates. Here, between rocky outcroppings and Mediterranean vegetation is Rabbit Beach, with fine white sand and turquoise waters. He was repeatedly recognized as the best in the world.

The territory belongs to the protected area and is protected by the state, so the negative human impact here is minimal. A quiet place where you can dive with a mask and fins and admire the extraordinary underwater kingdom, look into the grottoes. Works from 08:30 to 19:30. Lampedusa can be reached by ferry from Porto Empedocle or by plane, it has its own airfield serving domestic airlines. Then by car (about 10 minutes) and 20 minutes on foot.

Ortigia Island in Syracuse

Ortigia (Ortigia) – the historical center of Syracuse, whose age is calculated for thousands of years, is connected by three bridges, the central one – Ponte Umbertino, after passing through it, you find yourself at the Temple of Apollo. The pride of Ortigia is the Dome Cathedral. Erected on the site of an ancient Greek temple, from the 7th century it becomes Christian. Inside is the chapel of St. Lucia, where part of her remains rest. Open from 08:00 to 12:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00. The Arteusa Fountain is interesting – a reservoir near the sea, in which ducks, colorful fish swim, a plant unique in Europe – papyrus grows.

You should definitely visit the Paolo Orsi Museum of Archeology, the building was built specifically for the exposition. Collected artifacts found during archaeological excavations. Mostly belong to the prehistoric period, before the Greek and Roman eras. Open from 09:00 to 18:00, Wednesday – until 17:00. Day off – Monday. Ticket 8 euros.

Of the secular buildings, the Montalto Palace is interesting. Its construction began in 1397 by order of the aristocrat Mergulese. In the XV century, it passed into the possession of Montalno, having received a gift from the Aragonese queen. On the outer facade, made in the Gothic style, there is an interesting detail – three windows of different sizes. In Ortigia there is a fortress Maniache, built in 1239, served as a royal residence, it also housed a prison. Visit from 09:00 to 13:30, entry 2 euros.

Near the Aretuza fountain on Via Cavour there are restaurants, cafeterias, shops and shops where you can buy souvenirs. Locals love to stroll along the narrow picturesque embankment. Get there by regular bus, which run on schedule, by taxi or by rented transport.

Cathedral in Montreal

Not far from Palermo is the small town of Monreale, which is home to just over 30,000 inhabitants. The main attraction is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nuova, which is already 900 years old. The magnificent Norman church was built in 1172-1186 by William II. The complex includes a Benedictine monastery, a temple and the residence of kings. Since the 12th century, the appearance of the building has not changed significantly – the facade is decorated with arches, one tower is crowned with a spire. In 1267 the cathedral was consecrated. It was reconstructed in the 15th-17th centuries – a sacristy was added, in the 16th century the floor was covered with white marble and the chapel of the Crucifixion was built. In the portico of Hajin there is a statue of William the Good, presenting a gift to the Mother of God.

In the 19th century, the temple was damaged twice – in 1807 from a lightning strike, part of the walls collapsed. In 1811, a fire destroyed the unique ceiling made by the Arabs. The architecture combines several styles in exterior decoration and interior: antique, Byzantine, Norman. For tourists it is open from 09:00 to 13:00, on Sunday from 09:00 to 12:30. In high seasons – from 15:00 to 19:00. Located at a distance of about 10 km from Palermo, it is convenient to get there by regular bus. The cost of a one-way ticket is 1.5 euros.

Coast of the Cyclopes

The coast of the Cyclopes is one of the most beautiful places on the coast of the Ionian Sea in the city of Aci Castello. Included in popular tourist routes – bizarre lava islands are very unusual and attract many tourists. The name is associated with Odysseus, sung by Homer. Odysseus sailed the seas and could not get home until the waves washed his ship on the shore of a beautiful island near Mount Etna. Cyclopes lived on it and the most bloodthirsty, Polyphemus, lived in a cave where travelers got. The Cyclops asked Odysseus what his name was, and he replied – Nobody.

Odysseus offered wine to the monster, after drinking it, the giant fell asleep. Odysseus gouged out the sleeping ogre's only eye. Other cyclops ran to the terrible cries, but when they heard that Nobody had done it, they left. Odysseus and his comrades were able to escape, an angry cyclone threw rocks at the fleeing people. They, falling into the sea, formed strangely shaped rocks.

Ragusa

Ragusa is famous for its beautiful Baroque buildings, divided into the modern Upper Town and the ancient Lower Town. The lower part was built on the site of the old one, destroyed by an earthquake at the end of the 17th century. Most of the new buildings were built in the Baroque style. Ragusa amazes with the beauty of numerous palaces, churches and monuments. On the square in the Upper part there is one of the main Cathedrals – St. John the Baptist, its construction was completed in 1778. The temple is located on St. Giovanni Square.

It is interesting to visit the Archaeological Museum, which introduces the ancient history of Ragusa. Open from 9:00 to 13:30 and from 15:30 to 19:30. Ticket price – 4 euros. Secular buildings include the Palazzo Skinina in Upper Ragusa. In the 18th century, the Marquis Mario Skinina lived here, now it is the residence of the bishop. Rococo Palace Zacco. On the corner of the façade is the coat of arms of the family, the balconies are decorated with grotesque masks. Previously, five gates led to Ragusa, they all collapsed, leaving only the gates of the Port of Vattirieti. Regular buses run from Syracuse, Catania, Palermo.

Tuna Museum in Favignana

On Favignana, located in the western part of Sicily, tuna has been mined here since ancient times, systematic production began in the 17th century. In 1874, wealthy Ignazio Florio invested large sums of money in the local economy. Among other things, he built a tuna processing factory, which became, in modern terms, a city-forming enterprise.

Now, on the site of the closed factory, there is a museum where you can find out how the fishing went, what tools were used, how the fish was processed. Opening hours from 10:15 to 13:15 and from 16:15 to 19:15. The entrance fee is 4 euros, for people over 65 years old – free of charge. Reach Favinma by speedboat from Trapani. Price 10-12 euros per person one way (price includes tax for visiting the island). The return ticket is about 9 euros.

Nature reserve in Castellammare del Golfo

Between Palermo and Trapani, on the shore of the bay, is the village of Castellammare del Golfo, a village with about 15 thousand people. Tourists are attracted by the Zingaro Nature Reserve – with the clearest water and stunning views. The reserve is spread over an area of more than 1600 hectares between the cities of San Vito Lo and Capo do Scopello. The area is indented with caves and intricate lava figures on the rocks.

Residents saved the most beautiful nature from buildings, which contributed to the preservation of local species of plants and animals. The rich underwater world is striking in its diversity, caves and grottoes make these places ideal for diving. There are many safe trails in the reserve, covering the entire coast. The Museum of Nature operates. You can swim in the bay.

Historic center of Noto

Noto is a commune in Italy with about 24,000 inhabitants and an area of 550 sq. sq. The patron saint of the commune is Saint Corrado Confalonieri. Noto was almost completely destroyed in 1693. They decided to build a new one in a different place, almost all buildings in the Baroque style, with wide straight streets, squares and terraces. Many buildings were erected by the architect Vincenzo Sinatra. Tourists admire the famous Cathedral of San Nicolò, the basilica is made of yellow sandstone. Regular buses run from Catania.

Cala Rossa – Favignana beach

On the banks of Favignana, there is a flat coastline, which made it possible to equip many cozy comfortable places for swimming, one of them is Cala Rossa. According to legend, the name comes from a naval battle that took place between the Romans and the Carthaginians. The sea that day was painted blood red.
The sandy seabed, the absence of waves allows you to dive into the water with masks and fins. Everything is here for lovers of a quiet and relaxing holiday. You can get there by ferry, which makes regular flights.

Cathedral in Syracuse

The Cathedral of Syracuse is a lacy baroque building, a Christian church built on the ruins of an older Greek temple. In the 16th century, the temple was expanded – three chapels were completed. In the first half of the 18th century, according to the project of the architect Palma, the western facade was erected around the preserved nave and apse, chapels were built with columns, wrought iron gates, frescoes and statues. In 1911, extensive restoration work was carried out and the tasteless decorations of the 19th century were removed. Opening hours are from 09:00 to 12:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00.

Erice in the province of Trapani

The small town of Erice rises to 751 m sea level and is visible from almost every point in Sicily. Founded as a religious center dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, later under the Romans – Venus. The population is about 30,000 people. In terms of Erice has the shape of a triangle, the streets are confused and winding. In the westernmost part. Near the Norman gate of the Porta Trapani, there is the temple of Chiesa Matrice, built in 1314. From the temple, along a picturesque road, it is easy to walk to the castles of Castello Pepoli and Castello di Venere. The exposition of the city museum is interesting, some exhibits date back to the Stone Age.

The nearest large settlement is Trapani, from which you can get to Erice in two ways. One way is by funicular.

Opening hours:

Or on a regular bus. Erice can be walked around in a few hours, the sense of time disappears here. Medieval walls, silence and clouds make it unlike other places in the country.

Vulcano Island

Not far from Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea is the picturesque Italian island of Vulcano. Named after the ancient Roman god – the patron saint of blacksmiths. The ancient Greeks believed that the blacksmiths of the god were located on the island, from which smoke and fire escaped. The territory of the island is formed by volcanoes, and among them there is one active one – Fossa, the last eruption occurred a hundred years ago, but as scientists say, it can wake up at any time and show its power. People living near the volcano earned money by collecting and processing volcanic sulfur. Now the residents are engaged in the tourism business, this place is popular.

People come here not only to admire the grandiose views, but also to take healing sulfuric and mud baths, to enjoy excellent local wine. Tourists are offered a fascinating journey to the crater of the volcano, located at an altitude of four hundred meters. At the top, a stunning panorama of the entire archipelago opens up. Below, Monster Valley is a frightening place made of sand and plants. The beaches of this place are unique – the sand is not the usual yellow or white, but black, which looks unusual. You can swim and sunbathe here all year round. Ideal for a family vacation, with a developed infrastructure – there are children‘s and sports grounds.

Palace of the Normans in Palermo

The Palazzo Normanni was built by the Phoenicians, then it was captured by the ancient Romans, then by the Arabs, who conquered the city in the 9th century. The heyday of the palace falls on the reign of Frederick II, the king made it the imperial residence. It is a fortress, decorated with false arches. The oldest Leaning Tower of Pisa has been preserved (the astronomical observatory of the local university was equipped here).

Of greatest interest are the Palatine Chapel, Roger's Hall, the construction of which dates back to the days of the reign of William II, decorated with mosaics on secular subjects, and the Hall of the Armigers. In the royal apartments, the hall of Hercules is interesting, the ceiling of which is decorated with an image of a deity by Velázquez.

Greek theater in Taormina

Built in the 1st millennium BC. Greeks. The hall, designed for 10,000 people, faces the sea, offering breathtaking views of Etna and the Ionian coast. Under the Romans, the theater was refurbished – gladiatorial fights were held in it. Today, the Greco-Roman theater is a symbol of Taormina; events are held in the ancient building, in particular, the International Festival of Arts “Taormina Art”.

Church of Jesus in Palermo

The Temple of Jesus, known as Santa Maria di Gesu, is the most famous in all of Sicily. Construction began in the 16th century by Jesuit monks according to the design of Tristano. At first, the church had a main nave and side chapels, in order to give a more monumental appearance, later two side chapels were added on both sides. Consecrated in 1636.

The interiors are decorated with mosaics. In the chapel you can admire the fresco “Adoration of the Magi”. Restoration work lasted two years, opened in 2009. Open to visitors from 08:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00.

Benedictine monastery in Catania

You should definitely visit the Benedictine monastery, which houses the main Sicilian museum of antiquity and modern art. The monastery complex includes the Church of St. Benedict.
Today, a university has been opened on the territory – literary and philosophical faculties. In the former cells there are professors' offices, and classrooms are in churches. The monastery has a rich library of 100,000 volumes, most of which are of historical value. You can visit on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00.

Church of San Giorgio in Modica

Ancient Modica during the period of its existence was under the yoke of many tribes and nationalities. In the 18th century it became a cultural capital where scientists, philosophers and poets lived and worked. The historical center is divided into Upper Modica and Lower Modica. The main and most beautiful temple of San Giorgio began to be built in 1643, but was soon destroyed by the Great Earthquake. The building was restored, significantly changing its architecture: now it consisted of five naves, with a bell tower in the middle part of the building.

The church was erected on a hill, so it seems light and airy. In 1738 it was consecrated, but continued to be completed: in 1761 they completed the lower part of the facade, then the upper parts, in 1818 they added a beautiful wide staircase.

Bue Marino in Favignana

Favignana Island belongs to the Egadi (or Agatha) archipelago. This region is famous for its marble quarries, beaches and coves. An ideal place for diving, but the water is cool, no more than 25 degrees, it feels much lower. The descent to the water is not very convenient – rocky and steep, but for lovers of snorkeling here expanse. Under the water there are corals, schools of colorful fish, a variety of aquatic plants, mysterious grottoes and caves. You can get from the nearest city of Trapani by speedboat.

Ceramic Museum in Palermo

The art of ceramics was of exceptional importance on the island, and the Museum of Ceramics is dedicated to this craft. It contains more than 3,000 tiles, some more than 400 years old, some made by modern masters. Collected collection for many ceramics enthusiast Pio Mellino. The museum is housed in the restored Torre Piraino Palace.

The building was built in the 16th century – its ceilings are decorated with wonderful frescoes. The museum is very popular and therefore it is planned to expand it. 11 Giuseppe Garibaldi Street, Palermo, Sicily. Ticket price – 4 euros.

Cathedral in Catania

In Catania, you should definitely visit the Cathedral of St. Agatha, the patroness of the city, her remains are buried in the temple. Built in the 11th century, destroyed by an earthquake in 1169, only part of the altar on the east side survived. Then a devastating fire caused severe damage to the building, and it was rebuilt again.

The Great Earthquake again destroyed the temple to the ground, burying 7,000 parishioners under the walls. In 1711, St. Agatha's Cathedral was rebuilt. There are statues on the marble façade. Open from 08:00 to 12:30 and from 16:00 to 19:00.

Scala dei Turchi

Scala dei Turchi (staircase of the Turks) – this is the name of the most beautiful mountain on the seashore, not far from Palermo. It is located between the cities of Realmonte and Port Empedocle. It got its name from Turkish pirates who liked to rest from raids in a calm bay. The staircase is made of snow-white marl rock. The setting sun gives an incredible whiteness to the stone. Convenient beaches are located at the foot of the mountain.

Aegadian Islands

The Aegadian Islands group includes Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo and several smaller ones. People settled here in prehistoric times, at that time the land was connected with the mainland. Ancient drawings and stone carvings were found in the cave. Now about 4300 people live here. The administrative center is the village of Favignana.

The territory has been explored by archaeologists for a long time. Surprisingly clear water, beautiful beaches with unique reliefs, caves and grottoes – all this was the reason for the development of tourism. Local attractions are caves with drawings, Viking fortifications and buildings from the times of the Republic of Genoa. You can get to the islands on regular ships that make regular flights from Trapani.