San Giovanni Li Cuti
Source: Link
This beach is known for its ashes and black rocks that might have been a result of a volcanic activity. Locals and tourists come here, especially during summer, to swim and stay cool. Also seen are wooden boats owned by local fishermen, making this beach both a cultural and natural place of interest. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Fish Market
Source: Link
This fish market in the city is by the coast of Catania and is a place that visitors will find interesting as well. For those who want locally sourced, fresh seafood, this is the go-to destination. Apart from fresh fish, this is also a place to learn about how the locals live and their culture. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Museo Civico
Source: Link
This museum is located in one of the areas of Castello Ursino and boasts of different art pieces and sculptures from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. These include a torso of a Roman emperor as well as a relief of Polyphemus as he was being blinded by Odysseus. Other collections are rare weapons and sculptures from the Middle Ages as well as inscriptions and bronze statues. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Piazza Duomo
Source: Link
This square has several buildings in Baroque styles which were constructed in the 18th century. These include the Town Hall and cathedral of the city, the Duomo di Catania. Also, located in the middle of the square is the “Elephant Fountain”, designed with a small elephant, an obelisk and the symbol of the city. Another fountain is also set beside the Town Hall or what is also referred to as the Palazzo dei Chierici and dedicated Amenano. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Castello Ursino
Source: Link
Constructed during the 13th century, this castle, also referred to as Castello Svevo di Catania became the seat of the Sicilian Parliament. It has a large circular tower located at each corner. Since it has a rectangular plan, there are four towers. There is also an inner court in opwn-air. In 1932, it belonged to Catania and was restored. Today it houses the museum, the Museo Civico. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Teatro Romano
Source: Link
The Roman Theater is a must-see attraction for first-time visitors. Located on the southern part of the slope of the Greek acropolis, this site dates back from the second century AD. There are two perimeter passages in the auditorium while the area has a diameter of 100 metres. What is left of the theatre are the seating rows covered in marble and the steps are of lava material. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
San Nicolo I’Arena
Source: Link
This is the Church of San Nicolo which was built by the Benedictines in 1702 over the site of Greek acropolis, together with the buildings of a monastery. Since the structure was never completed, the façade is not complete but with massive columns. There is also a dome as well as an interior with three aisles. A great organ is also housed in the church, by Goethe. Lastly, the dome gives a picturesque view of Mount Etna. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Porta Garibaldi
Source: Link
This majestic gate was built in 1768 to honor King Ferdinand IV and his consort, Maria Carolina. This was a design of Francesco Battaglia and Stefano Ittar. The two sides were designed differently, with the side facing west has concave wings and accentuated by a clock located between two figures with wings. Meanwhile, the other side is simple in design. The structure has horizontal layers made of black lava and white limestone. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Palazzo Biscari
Source: Link
This extravagant palace was built for the Prince of Biscari and up to this day is still owned by the family and remains a residence of the descendants. The ornate window and door frames are impressive. An extension was built to house the art collection of the grandson of the Prince. The interior features a Rococo dining hall designed with frescoes and staccatos. There are also marbled floors and paintings inside. Click the next ARROW to see the next image!
Parco dell’Etna
Source: Link
For visitors, being able to walk the paths going to and from Mount Etna is an unforgettable experience. This area is a protected National Park where one gets to be near the foot of the volcano and even climb it for astonishing views of the city and the Ionian Sea.
