Giorno 1 — Catania → Ragusa
On Sicily’s eastern coast, at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania reveals a distinctive character shaped by volcanic power, history and Mediterranean energy. Founded by the Greeks and later influenced by Roman, Byzantine and Baroque civilisations, the city offers a remarkable heritage where black lava stone blends with the architecture of its monuments.
The historic centre, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects the Baroque reconstruction that followed the 1693 earthquake. Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the Cathedral of Sant’Agata and the Elephant Fountain, the symbol of the city, forms the heart of Catania. The surrounding streets also reveal the Roman Theatre, the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena and elegant 18th-century façades.
Local gastronomy celebrates specialities such as pasta alla Norma, arancini and granitas.
Marked by its Baroque heritage, the power of Mount Etna and its Sicilian traditions, Catania expresses a vibrant atmosphere where history, culture and nature come together in harmony.
. In south-eastern Sicily, at the heart of the Sicilian Baroque region, Ragusa reveals an identity shaped by history, stone and traditions. Rebuilt after the earthquake of 1693, the city offers an architectural heritage whose elegance has earned it UNESCO recognition.
Ragusa is distinguished by its two complementary faces: Ragusa Ibla, the ancient city nestled in the valley, with its steep lanes, aristocratic palaces and the majestic Cathedral of San Giorgio; and Ragusa Superiore, rebuilt according to a more modern layout after the earthquake.
Beyond its cultural heritage, the surrounding area reveals preserved landscapes of rolling hills, green valleys, olive groves and the characteristic dry-stone walls of the Hyblaean countryside. Local gastronomy expresses the identity of the region through Ragusano DOP cheese, local products, handmade pasta and Sicilian wines.
Between Baroque heritage, stone landscapes and Sicilian traditions, Ragusa reveals a unique identity, shaped by its history and distinctive character.
.