The city in the shadow of Etna
Catania, surrounded by the Mediterranean and protected by Etna, is a young and dynamic city, which never forgets its ancient popular traditions. In recent years, with the constant enhancement of cultural heritage, it has become an attraction that really cannot be given up. Its fulcrum is undoubtedly Piazza Duomo, where the most important monuments are concentrated: the imposing Cathedral of Sant’Agata, the Elephant Fountain, a very evocative symbol for all people from Catania, and the historic Pescheria market, a real open-air theater where the calls of street vendors chase each other from early morning and recreate a capitivating atmosphere.
A short distance from the centre, you can walk along Via Etnea, the most famous street for shopping and clubs, very popular especially with young people. Here you can stop in one of the many cloisters that enliven these places and refresh yourself with a nice drink made from homemade syrups flavoured with lemon, tangerine and tamarind. If you are an adventure lover, then you cannot miss an excursion to Etna, the highest volcano in Europe, with its impressive woods and eruptions.
A rich array of aromas and flavours combine with art and nature. Catania’s gastronomy is one of the most extensive in Sicily: from rotisserie and street food to the most refined recipes, from hearty first courses such as pasta alla norma to typical desserts, where the Olivette di Sant’Agata and nun’s biscuits stand out. This Sicilian jewel will give you a unique experience!
The work of Sicilian puppets has been an intangible heritage of Unesco since 2008
Opera dei Pupi is a type of puppet theatre whose protagonists are Charlemagne and the Paladins, fighting against the Moors. The tradition of the performances is particularly alive in the cities of Palermo and Catania.
Holydays in Sicily
Sicily is a land of millenary traditions and spectacular celebrations, when it comes to festivities as heartfelt as Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Check all our tips on what to see and to do to spend your Christmas holidays in Sicily and make your trip unforgettable!