Castello di Falconara

Modica is a city of the late Baroque not far from Noto. Like the other eight cities of the Val di Noto, it was also recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2002. Among the main attractions to visit are the historic centre of Modica, the Cathedral of San Giorgio and the Cathedral of San Pietro, inside which precious works of art are kept. For chocolate lovers, we recommend tasting the particular Modica chocolate which represents one of the excellences of Italian confectionery production.

The Baroque city of Avola is located a few kilometres away from Noto. The characteristic of this city is its hexagonal-shaped historical centre, inside which there are historic buildings and churches. The Mother Church, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, the clock tower and the ancient Avola are worth visiting. Avola is a destination that offers a perfect combination of culture and relaxation. The coast of Avola extends for 10km. Its immense beaches are ideal for spending days in complete peace.

Syracuse, a city with a decidedly ancient history dating back to Greek and Roman times; mentioned in numerous texts, it is described as beautiful and powerful as Athens. The streets of this city teem with beauty and richness, thanks to the many styles that mingle between them, such as medieval and baroque. This magical place offers the opportunity to visit many attractions, including its beautiful beaches, archaeological remains, acropolis, theatres, temples, necropolis and its wonderful ‘island’ of Ortigia. An island that shows the oldest face of the city, an open-air museum that houses the most impressive of structures, such as the majestic Duomo, the Maniace Castle, the church of Santa Lucia la Badia that houses a splendid work by Caravaggio, the temple of Apollo and Athena and the mythological fountain of Artemis.

Marzamemi, the most picturesque and authentic seaside village in eastern Sicily. In the province of Syracuse stands this splendid locality born of an ancient fishing tradition, with its sweet little yellow stone houses surrounded by the sea and its two small ports full of traditional fishing boats. Known for hosting the historic tuna fishery and several highly sought-after canning factories. A town with a strong Arab influence, it is home to splendid churches and historical buildings. Relaxing and evocative are the countless beaches it enjoys, an essential stop for those wandering through the meanders of eastern Sicily.

Scicli is one of the wonders of the Val di Noto, a Baroque jewel born of stone set among beautiful hills. Its origins are very ancient, as evidenced by some Byzantine remains. Only after a catastrophic earthquake was it rebuilt in Baroque style. Its streets tell stories and legends, the blending styles make it special and always surprising. Remarkable are the historical palaces, churches and the ruins of the large, sacred buildings on the hilltop where the real city once stood.

A hymn to Baroque, architectural splendour and pure elegance; we are talking about the Baroque capital and UNESCO heritage site, Noto. Wonderful monuments, historical palaces, churches and convents built entirely to create eternal harmony. Ambitious the feat of creating a coherent and continuous urban architecture, but so it was and to this day, it retains first place on the podium of Sicilian beauty. Its imposing cathedral dominating the historic centre, with its stuccoes, decorations and frescoes will be a joy for the eyes and soul. Getting lost in the streets of this town is always pleasant, because every corner will surprise you.

Punta Secca is the seaside fraction of the town of Santa Croce Camerina. A typical and authentic seaside village, it is pastel-coloured and has remote legends and stories dating back to Byzantine times. Its peculiar and endless cliffs at the water’s edge make it resemble a painting and admiring it gives unique emotions at any time of day. Known for its important lighthouse and its defensive tower commissioned by the Bourbon kingdom, this location will win everyone’s attention.

Enna, located in the centre of Sicily, has various nicknames such as ‘the belvedere of Sicily’ or ‘navel of Sicily’. Recognised as the highest provincial capital in Italy, perched on a majestic rock, facing the beautiful and fragrant Sicilian countryside, it enjoys an amazing view. Various dominations have forged the special identity of this town, such as the Siculs, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Swabians and Spaniards. Its strategic and special position has always protected it from attacks, creating a natural fortress of excellence. Its castle, temple of Ceres and cathedral are well known. The city is divided into Enna Alta and Enna Bassa, the latter being more recent. Among palaces, monuments and the cathedral, one can admire examples of incredible medieval architecture. The main attraction is the Castello di Lombardia, with the sensational view it offers stretching from the Madonie to Mount Etna.

Piazza Armerina is known throughout the world for its marvellous mosaics in the Villa Romana del Casale. Its majestic cathedral dominates the historical centre with its medieval streets, rich in churches, Renaissance and Baroque palaces. The historical centre is the real jewel of the town, along with the four medieval quarters that characterise it and maintain its authenticity over the years. Surrounded by forests and nature reserves, it is an ideal destination for lovers of trekking and open-air walks.