Fun and places to see in Sicily

Nowhere else in the world can you immerse yourself in the ancient history of Greece and Rome, even in the heart of Greece! Sicily may be physically a part of Italy, but the sights of Sicily, Italy are a unique world. A world that you cannot experience anywhere else on earth. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, has more to say than mafia and horror stories. To learn about the sights of Sicily, Italy, with the tourism magazine Fly Today come along

Where is Sicily?

Italy only limited to Travel to RomeNot Milan or Venice! Sicily is considered the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and also the largest island in Italy, which should be included in the list of places to visit in this country. This island is located in the central part of the Mediterranean Sea and in the south of the Italian peninsula, and a narrow strait called Messina separates it from the Italian peninsula. This scenic island has been home to many civilizations for thousands of years, a legacy that today contributes to Sicily’s multicultural appeal, diverse cuisine and, of course, the stories and legends of Sicily.

This area is famous above all for its amazing beaches, delicious food and strange history. Many people think that Sicily is a country, but Sicily is neither a country nor a state! This island is an autonomous region of Italy that is divided into different provinces.

Is Sicily part of Italy or Greece?

Sicily is not part of Greece. However, a part of the island once belonged to the Greeks. Even today you can see the remains of some of the most magnificent Greek buildings in Sicily. It even seems that the flag of this region has its roots in Greece. The flag of Sicily shows a symbol of three skeletons with the head of Medusa (a Greek mythological figure) in the center.

Sicily, with a population of 5 million, is separated from Italy by the Strait of Messina and is now officially called the Region of Sicily and has its own regional head of government (similar to a governor), but the governor or other officials of Sicily still operate under the authority of the Italian government. they do. Therefore, Sicily can be included List of places to visit in Italy Contract.

This island, with an area of ​​approximately 25,710 square kilometers, houses the only active volcano in Europe. Mount Athena volcano is located at an altitude of 3,340 meters above sea level, on the east coast of Sicily, near the city of Catania. Many of the sights of Sicily, Italy, have been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This can prove that this beautiful land has one of the most fascinating histories in the world.

In fact, the oldest evidence of human presence in Sicily dates back to 12 thousand years BC. The island of Sicily is divided into 9 provinces and all of them except Anna have wonderful coastlines with incredible beaches and scenery. Due to its Mediterranean climate and great charm, Sicily is one of the most popular destinations for many Europeans.

The main city of the Italian island of Sicily

The main city of Sicily The capital of Sicily is Palermo It is called Palermo is located near where Europe ends and Africa begins. The same thing makes these cities one of The most important places to visit in Sicily, Italy has become Palermo has been a meeting place of civilizations for thousands of years, this city showcases a mix of Byzantine mosaics, Arabic domes and painted arches. The location of Palermo on the narrow border of Europe and Africa has given this city a special effect. In short, it can be said that in Palermo traditional markets, baroque churches, gothic palaces and date palms are placed together.

The city of Palermo and all its buildings are in fact a reflection of the glory of the centuries of domination of different civilizations in Sicily. Palermo was once occupied by Greeks and Romans, then Arabs and Normans. Today, this city is one of the most popular cities in Italy and is known as the cultural capital of Italy. This city has a population of about 650,000 people and is surrounded by beaches and high cliffs. A city known for its passionate people, magnificent and unusual architecture and delicious food. Although many people still consider the city of Palermo to be the home of the mafia, it is as safe as any major European city.

Sights of Sicily, Italy

Sightseeing in Sicily is not limited to historical buildings or beautiful nature. This area has all the attractions of the world in a way. If you like visiting ancient monuments, Greek temples and various churches and Roman amphitheatres are waiting for you. If you are a lover of medieval architecture, you can see the most outstanding examples of architecture in cathedrals and many tourist attractions in Sicily, Italy. Finally, if you are looking for stunning and unspoiled nature, the beaches of Sicily will surely delight you. Of course, you should not forget the traditional markets, delicious food and Sicilian festivals.

Montreal Cathedral Cathedral of Monreale

Monreale Cathedral is one of the most important sights in Sicily, Italy and one of the most magnificent churches in the world. This church is located in the city of Montreal and among the mountains of Sicily. The construction of the Monreal Cathedral took nearly 100 years and after centuries it is still considered one of the best examples of Norman architecture in the world. The Monreale Cathedral is made of white marble and has a large and stunning dome.

Although the cathedral of Monreale is known more than anything for its dome, the famous mosaics of this church should not be forgotten. One of the most important artworks of the Monreale Cathedral are the mosaics that have been left since the 12th century. Made by Greek and Italian artists, these mosaics depict stories from the Bible.

In addition to fascinating mosaics, you can also see magnificent wall paintings and beautiful marble sculptures by visiting this Sicilian attraction. If you are looking for those attractions in Sicily, Italy, which will give you the pleasure of adventure in history and cultural roots, as well as viewing works of art at the same time, Monreale Cathedral is the best place in Sicily.

Sicily Museum Cave Grotta Mangiapane

Before traveling to Sicily, it is necessary to know that a large part of the sights in Sicily, Italy, are related to cave museums. The cave of the Sicily Museum is located near the city of Rapani, and its paintings and images date back to the 5th and 6th centuries. Although this cave museum is thousands of years old, it was discovered less than 100 years ago.

This museum cave was discovered in 1956 by a group of students. The Cave Museum of Sicily has four rooms filled with wall paintings and rock carvings. Wall paintings that depict animals, humans and symbols or religious stories. If you enjoy adventure in strange places, the Sicily Museum Cave is one of those places of interest in Sicily, Italy, that will definitely attract your attention.

Cephalo Sicily Cefalù

If you want to see the most beautiful picture of Italy, don’t miss Cefalu, Sicily. This city is a combination of the best beaches of Sicily along with the greatest masterpieces of Arab-Norman architecture. The squares, cobbled streets and medieval churches of Cefalù make up a large part of the tourist attractions of Sicily, Italy, attractions that will surprise any tourist. This old town is full of amazing restaurants and beaches and is only an hour away from Palermo.

The city of Cefalu is full of white and clay houses that are located among the narrow and paved streets. A friendly town that is distinguished by colorful clothes hanging on balconies and wooden fishermen’s boats from other cities and beaches of Sicily, Italy. If you are looking for a nearby, calm and different destination, Cefalu Sicily will definitely bring you pleasure.

Taormina Sicily Taormina

What do you think Goethe, Oscar Wilde, John Steinbeck, Ingmar Bergman, Ford Coppola, Elizabeth Taylor and Woody Allen have in common? It’s simple, they all stayed in Taormina, the pearl of the Mediterranean. The city of Taormina is located on high cliffs above the sea. This means that from all points of Taormina you can see a panoramic view of the sea and the enchanting nature of Sicily.

Taormina has been one of the most popular places to visit in Sicily for several hundred years. This city has winding streets with shops, restaurants, cafes and medieval buildings in every corner. Walking in Taormina is like walking in an old Italian movie with its pastel colored houses, ancient churches and palaces and panoramic views.

Taormina is your favorite destination in Sicily if you want to experience eating fresh seafood by the beach and enjoy swimming in clear waters and an authentic Italian atmosphere. On the one hand, the absence of cars in Taormina has made this city one of the quietest tourist attractions in Sicily, Italy.

Mount Athena, Sicily Mount Etna

Mount Athena is the highest mountain in Italy and the most active stratovolcano in the world. The last eruption of Mount Athena dates back to 2022, which proves that Mount Athena is always active. Mount Athena is 3357 meters high and consists of three craters.

In addition to being one of the tourist attractions in Sicily, Italy, Athena was also one of the most sacred tourist attractions in Sicily for the ancient Greeks. The name of this mountain is taken from the name of the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena, and there are many remains of ancient temples and cities in its foothills.

This mountain is one of the most important sights in Sicily, Italy, and the venue for many Sicilian traditions and festivals. There are many amazing routes to visit and climb in Athena, but if you are not into climbing, you can climb up to a certain height of this Sicilian attraction by car or even special buses.

Catania Sicily Catania

Catania shows the young Sicily with bustling cafes and warm people! Catania is located in the eastern part of Sicily at the foot of one of the most active volcanoes in Italy, Mount Athena. It is the second largest city in Sicily after Palermo. Catania’s proximity to Mount Athena is both a blessing and a curse. Although the fertile and volcanic soil has brought many benefits to this city and given it a unique nature, but the volcanic eruption has already destroyed the city twice!

Like other places of interest in Sicily, the city of Catania has been ruled many times by different civilizations, including Greeks, Romans, Spaniards and Arabs. For this reason, today you can see Greco-Roman architecture alongside medieval and baroque masterpieces in this city. Walking in Catania Sicily is walking in history.

Beside the historical attractions, if you visit Catania, don’t miss its fish market. Catania fish market is one of the sights of Sicily, Italy, which besides trying local and sea food, gives you a chance to buy fresh fruits and learn more about the products of this region.

Syracuse and the island of Ortigia Syracuse and the island of Ortygia

If you want to see one of the oldest cities in the world up close, be sure to visit Syracuse during your trip to Sicily. Syracuse is considered one of the oldest cities in the world and dates back to the 8th century BC. Over the years, the city has been ruled by several different empires, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish.

Ortigia Island is a small island in the center of Syracuse Bay. So much should be said about the beauty and importance of this island that a visit to Syracuse Sicily is incomplete without a visit to Ortigia. This small island is full of pristine places and of course temples and historical buildings.

In the city of Syracuse, Sicily, you can see one of the largest acropolises and theaters of ancient Greece. On the other hand, one of the masterpieces of Greek engineering, the Archimenides Aqueduct, is just a few steps away. Finally, you can end your trip to Syracuse by visiting two of the most famous tourist attractions in Sicily, namely the famous temples of Apollo and Delphina.

Noto, Modica and Ragusa Modica, Ragusa and Noto

Noto, Modica and Ragusa are three beautiful cities very close to each other that have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2002. These three cities together are one of The best places to visit in Sicily for a day trip are. Ragusa is called the city of bridges because of the presence of three special bridges, but many people nicknamed it Little Sicily. This historic center is full of baroque architectural masterpieces.

Modica, with its medieval heritage, is famous for its narrow streets and long staircases, and the city of Noto is known as the capital of the Baroque due to its unique architecture that can be seen in its streets, squares and staircases. In the following, you will get to know more about these places of interest in Sicily, Italy.

Noto Sicily One of the most pristine areas of Sicily, Italy

If you are thinking of historical adventure or walking in one of the most unspoiled parts of Italy rather than sunbathing and exploring the mountains, Noto Sicily is the best destination for your vacation. Noto is considered a paradise of baroque architecture and one of the most beautiful historical centers of Sicily.

This city is located on a plateau overlooking the Asinaro Valley and is covered with citrus, olive and almond trees. In the city of Noto, everything will surprise you. From the fountain, arch and church to the palace, or even the staircase and balcony! This issue has caused that The most important tourist attraction in Noto Sicily Stroll through the narrow streets, see the golden colored stone buildings, the fantastic views and balconies.

Modica Sicily Watching Baroque architecture

After visiting Noto, your next stop is Modica, 35 km away. If you love baroque architecture, the stunning churches associated with this style of architecture, you must visit Modica. The city consists of two urban complexes: Upper Modica and Lower Modica, both of which are equally attractive for different reasons.

In the lower part you can see a network of streets, buildings and old churches, which are full of cafes, restaurants and small shops. St. George’s Cathedral stands out in the upper part of the city. The church is built in the local baroque style and when you climb the twin steps of the church, you can see small gardens full of roses, wisteria and palm trees on both sides.

Another reason that draws tourists to Modica is chocolate. Modica produces one of the most delicious chocolates in Sicily and is an attractive destination for chocolate lovers. So if you love chocolate, don’t miss a trip to this region of Sicily.

Ragusa, Sicily A city with two faces!

Ragusa is one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily and is only 15 km away from Modica. Ragusa is a city with two faces: one modern with wide streets, and the other smaller and old, built in the Baroque style, with narrow streets, staircases and old squares. The two halves of the city of Ragusa are separated by a deep valley. Although the archaeological museum, shops and everyday businesses are in the modern part of Ragusa, the most interesting part to visit is the old Ragusa.

There are many things to see in old Ragusa. Old mansions and gardens full of trees, ancient squares, cafes, charming restaurants and of course baroque churches! If you are interested in exploring old and small villages, Noto, Modica and Sicily are one of the most interesting sights in Sicily, Italy.

Villa Romana Sicily Villa Romana del Casale

If you like to walk like a Roman prince in a luxurious palace and have the same feeling as the nobles experienced thousands of years ago, Villa Romana Sicilia is the best place for such experiences. Villa Romana was built in the 4th century and was considered one of the most luxurious and beautiful Roman houses in its time.

This palace has more than 3,500 square meters of mosaics inspired by Greek and Roman stories and legends. One of the most famous mosaics of Villa Romana in Sicily is the duck hunting mosaic. This mosaic depicts a Roman man hunting ducks in a pond. The details of this mosaic are so accurate that even the feathers of the ducks can be seen clearly.

If you enjoy ancient art and Roman history is fascinating to you, you must visit Villa Romana. Villa Romana is one of the must-see places in Sicily that will take you back to the glory days of the Roman Empire.

Zingaro Nature Reserve Sicily Zingaro Nature Reserve

Zingaro Sicily is where the sea and untamed nature meet. This nature reserve still looks like it did centuries ago. Except for a few village buildings, there are almost no human traces in Zingaro. There are no coastal roads, no cars and no noise except the wind and waves. Zingaro is a place where you can relax for hours among the olive trees and holy oaks or gaze at the foxes and seagulls that walk easily and fearlessly along the sidewalks. If you are looking for the most unspoiled spot in Sicily and even Italy, the Zingaro Nature Reserve is one of those places to visit in Sicily, Italy that will meet your expectations.

Torre Salsa Beach Sicily Torre Salsa Natural Beach

If you plan to visit this magical beach, first of all, watch out for turtles and take enough sunscreen, water and food with you. Tulsa is one of the most pristine beaches of Sicily, Italy. A wild beach filled with steep cliffs, sand dunes, lagoons, grasses and shrubs. Tulsa Sicily is ideal for those who like to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a few hours of peace in nature.

This natural protected area has an area of ​​760 hectares and its white beach stretches nearly 6 kilometers along the sea. Due to the pristine and untouched nature of this beach, you can see a variety of marine species in its waters, making Tulsa one of the best beaches in Sicily for diving. If you are looking for a place to relax rather than visiting the tourist attractions of Sicily, Torre Salsa Sicily is the right choice for you.

Eris Cecil Erice

Magnificence and charm, traditions and stories of the past and finally beauty, beauty and beauty! When you walk through the streets of Aris, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, you will feel all this with all your heart. Another name of the city of Eris is the city of a hundred churches. Although there are many churches in this city, it is safe to say that none of them can be overlooked.

Apart from the churches, another interesting part of this Sicilian attraction is the Spanish quarter. It is said that this area was built during the Spanish rule to house Spanish soldiers. The castle of Venere is the symbol of the village of Eris, which was built by the Normans. If you go to the top of the castle, you can see a view of a wonderful English garden.

From the other side, you can see a panoramic view of the Tyrrhenian coast of the Trapani Bay, and on the other side you can see the Trapani Port and the Agadine Islands. Finally, after exploring this amazing city, you should go to the shops and spend a few moments looking at the famous Eris Sicilian carpets, hand-woven from pieces of colored cloth and painted pottery, and of course try the delicious sweets and Sicilian chocolates.

Benedictine Monastery of Sicily Benedictine Monastery

The Benedictine Monastery of Sicily is one of the largest Benedictine complexes in the entire continent of Europe and one of the most important sights in Sicily, Italy. This complex consists of a church, a library, a museum and a garden. The Benedictine monastery church was built in the 11th century in the Norman Roman style and has a large and beautiful dome.

The library of the Benedictine monastery of Catania is also a historically valuable library. This library has more than 200,000 books and manuscripts dating back to the 11th to 18th centuries. The museum of this Benedictine collection is full of sculptures, paintings and miniature and religious works.

The hanging garden of the Benedictine monastery was also built in the 18th century in the Baroque architectural style. But the monastery building is the most important part of this building, which was built in the 16th century and has been developed until today. Due to its renovations in different historical periods, this building is an example of the integration of different architectures.

Aeolian Islands of Sicily Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands are one of the most important summer tourist destinations in Italy and one of the biggest natural and cultural treasures in the south of this country. This archipelago, formed by volcanic eruptions over time, consists of seven islands, Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panare, Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi, each of which has its own identity. In the following, we will learn more about these tourist attractions of Sicily, Italy:

Lipari Island, Sicily lipari island

Lipari is the largest island in the archipelago and a good place to start your trip in the Aeolian archipelago. From scenic hiking trails and pebbly beaches to museums and a bustling harbor, Lipari appeals to every type of traveler. Before being known for its cafes, restaurants and port, this island has been attractive to tourists thanks to its natural resources, i.e. natural and sparkling stones. If you travel to Lipari, don’t miss the opportunity to walk in the white cave of Pumis and the valley of stones.

Sicily Volcano Island Volcano Island

Vulcano Island, named after the Roman god of fire, Vulcan, is considered one of the most attractive places to visit in Sicily due to its active volcanic mountains. In this island, you can enjoy the natural hot springs and black sand beaches of Sicily. The beaches of this island with a tropical atmosphere and beach cafes are a great place to spend a sunny day and enjoy a delicious Italian pizza.

Stromboli, Sicily Stromboli Island

Home to an active volcano that erupts every 20-30 minutes, Stromboli is a unique destination. An island with an active volcano and black sand beaches where all the houses are white and bright. In Stromboli you can sit in a panoramic view under the volcano and enjoy a local meal while the mountain erupts nearby.

Astronomical clock tower of Sicily Astronomical Clock of the Cathedral of Messina

The lion roars, the rooster crows, music plays and everyone starts dancing. This is a summary of the show you can see at the Astronomical Clock Tower of Sicily. Messina bell tower clock is the largest and most complex astronomical clock in the world. But visiting this building, which is known as one of the most famous sights in Sicily, Italy, has special conditions.

If you want to see one of the most interesting views of the Sicilian Astronomical Clock, be sure to get there before noon. This moving clock announces to the city that it is noon in an unusual way: as soon as noon arrives, the lion on top of the clock, which is the symbol of the city of Messina, waves the flag of the city three times and waves its arms while roaring. .

A little below the lion statue, a rooster, symbolizing effort and intelligence, flaps its wings three times and crows. Next to him, the statues of two Sicilian heroines, Dina and Clarence, as well as Madonna, begin to move. This show lasts about 10 minutes and is considered one of the most interesting sights in Sicily, Italy.

Capuchin crypts Capuchin Catacombs

Along with all the natural beauty and architectural masterpieces of Sicily, the city of Palermo in Sicily hosts one of the strangest tourist attractions in Sicily. From the outside, the Capuchin Monastery looks like any normal building in the world, but you can enter the large Capuchin crypts through the doors of the Capuchin Monastery. Where nearly 8,000 corpses are pinned to the walls, sitting on benches and shelves, and placed in open coffins.

Capuchin monks, in the 16th century, decided to bury monks and their family members in these crypts. They believed that this was a reminder of death to the living. The bodies buried in the Capuchin crypts are naturally embalmed. These mummies have remained healthy due to the special conditions of the catacombs, which have a constant temperature of 12 degrees Celsius and a humidity of 75%.

The mummified bodies, standing or sitting, are arranged in regular rows. Some of the mummies are fully clothed and others are decorated with jewels and ornaments. If you are looking for a bit of excitement and experiencing strange things, the Capuchin crypts are one of those places of interest in Sicily, Italy that will surprise you.

Pantalika Cemetery Necropolis of Pantalica

Pantalica Cemetery is a vast cemetery located in the Annapo River Valley in Sicily, Italy. As one of the largest and most important cemeteries in the Mediterranean region, this cemetery has been registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This Sicilian attraction is estimated to date back to the 7th century BC and was used by the Sicilians, the people who lived in Sicily before the Romans.

Pantalika tombs are carved into the limestone rocks that cover the valley and vary in size and complexity. Some tombs are simple, one-room chambers, while others are decorated with paintings, sculptures, and mosaics. It is believed that the Sicilians used these tombs to bury the dead, store valuables and as a place of worship.

Sicily, the thousand-year-old sunny island

A trip to Sicily is a trip to the whole world. If you are looking for deep historical experiences as a traveler, you can see the traces of the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and dozens of different ethnicities and historical groups among the tourist attractions of Sicily. Baroque churches and palaces, Greek amphitheatres, and each of the sights of Sicily, Italy tell a story of a certain period of history.

On the other hand, if you love nature, the most pristine beaches of Sicily, volcanic mountains and green valleys are waiting for you on this island. Finally, if you get tired of walking through medieval towns and villages and swimming and sunbathing on pristine beaches, Sicily still has options to offer. Sicily is the island of chocolate and Italian food. From fresh seafood to traditional Italian cuisine, Sicily has something for every taste. If you are looking for a unique trip, we suggest three important steps: find the right time, Buying plane ticketsBook Sicily Hotel and go to the heart of the Mediterranean!

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Frequently asked questions about places of interest in Sicily