Catania is a terrace overlooking beauty: here's why you should love the city of Etna.
The historic center of Catania
Il charm of the baroque Catania takes on an almost fairytale feel, especially during the Christmas season. The historic center is definitely one of the top five things to see in Catania. Under a starry sky, Piazza Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among the city's architectural gems, with its little elephant (called "Liotru" by the locals) tells the tale of this city's legends and magic. A late-evening stroll through the streets of the historic center allows you to see a city steeped in history in all its splendor. The ruins of the Greco-Roman theater in Piazza Stesicoro, the lights of Via Etnea with Villa Bellini, the elegance of Via Umberto, are just a few of the places worth lingering in on summer and winter evenings.
Between nightlife and culture
Catania is a city that grows day by day. Art, cultural events, literary meetings and exhibitions of great artists (such as Escher or Vivian maier) give the Sicilian city a great cultural fervorBetween an exhibition at Castello Ursino and a new book presentation, treat yourself to a little relaxation in Piazza Teatro Massimo. Here, with a cocktail in hand, you'll immerse yourself in the true Catania nightlifeDuring the Christmas season, the city is decorated with countless lights, and it is possible to visit museums at reduced prices or stroll through the many Christmas markets.
Saint Agatha: the story of a devotion
Saint Agatha is not only the patron saint of the city of Catania. For all devout Catanese, she is a daughter to be loved and protected.The body of the Saint is kept in the splendid cathedral, built on the ruins of the Achillian Baths and a pagan Roman temple. It is certainly one of the things to see if you decide to take a trip to Catania. From February 3rd to 5th and the August 17th The city prepares to celebrate its patron saint. The reliquary bust, resting on the float and accompanied by the traditional canderole, parades through the main streets of the Sicilian city to greet her beloved devotees, the curious, and tourists visiting Catania. The love for the patron saint is also palpable during the Christmas season: tourists from around the world who come to Catania to celebrate Christmas or New Year's Eve cannot miss the Cathedral and pray before the chapel dedicated to the saint.
The warmth of the people of Catania and good food
The people of Catania have many strengths and weaknesses. While they're argumentative and touchy, they're also very funny, warm, social, and very affectionate with newcomers. They may be a little moody, but with their big hearts, they manage to give you so much affection. Different sides of the same coin: sometimes unbearable, but often irresistible. The "warmth" that they convey is good food which can be enjoyed in Catania, especially on holidays, has one great advantage: that of being able to conquer even the most demanding palates.
A city between the sea and the mountains
Sea or mountainA tourist visiting Catania can choose, depending on the season, whether to treat themselves to a seaside or mountain vacation. If you prefer a summer vacation, you can enjoy the beauty of Playa beach just a few kilometers from the Duomo every day, or you can opt for the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks along Catania's seafront. If you love winter, Catania is definitely the destination for you.Etna, Europe's highest volcano, is located in the Sicilian city. With specialized tour guides, you can reach the high altitude on skis, sleds, and enjoy breathtaking views. If you're lucky, who knows, Etna might even offer you a welcome gift: a stunning flash eruption, so you can admire it in all its power...
Cover photo credits: Mirko Chessari
