About this experience
Catania is the liveliest city on the eastern coast of Sicily with several millennia of fascinating history. You will explore the historical center, discover what centuries and elements have hidden, taste the city, ride along the coast, and visit fishing suburbs. Throughout all this, you will be accompanied by stories about the past and present of Catania, as well as Greek myths that have become an integral part of the local culture.
What to Expect
The history of the city 'stone by stone'
During the tour, you will learn about what the island's land holds and about the epochs that can be told by the multi-level excavations in the city with almost a four-thousand-year history, captured in black basalt and hidden under layers of culture. You will walk through places that keep the memory of Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs. In the historical center of Catania, you will stroll through the districts of Chivita, San Berillo, and Judecca, see monasteries, shelters for the poor, hospitals, and a university. The program also includes the medieval Ursino Castle, where I will tell you about how, when, and why the 'castle by the sea' ended up in the city center, what happened there before, and what is inside its walls now. Also, you will have a meeting with Ancient Rome in the 21st century - you will study the Roman amphitheater and Greco-Roman theater and find out why they were built and why they were hidden for centuries.
The triumph of Baroque in Catania
You will learn the history of the city's main cathedral, its interior design, and the most important elements marking its transformation. Through the ensemble of the main square, you will explore the peculiarities of the Baroque style by Vaccarini, examine the Elephant Fountain - a symbol of Catania, and discover the underground secrets of the square. On Crociferi Street - the 'Baroque jewelry showcase' - you will visit churches and hear about the mysteries and legends associated with religious buildings. And in the appearance of noble palaces, you will discover an interesting combination of different architectural styles: Baroque, Classicism, and Modernism.
The religious life of the city
Near the former Benedictine monastery and the impressive church of San Nicola La Rena, you will learn who these Benedictines were and what 'rena' means, as well as get acquainted with the past life of the abbey, which today houses a university. During the tour, I will also tell you about the most revered Christian martyr here and show you places related to the life and cult of Saint Agatha.
Sicilian Color and Culture
Next to the city's main cultural venue - the Vincenzo Bellini Opera Theater, I will tell you about the work of the world-famous composer. At the 'Pescheria' market, you will appreciate the richness of its assortment and the colorful trading rows. And, of course, stories about eruptions and earthquakes, which each time strengthened the spirit of the residents, who from ancient times steadfastly believed in the patronage and protection of gods and saints, will not go unnoticed, undoubtedly leaving their mark on the culture and life of the people.
Organizational Details
- For the walk you will need: comfortable shoes, a camera, in summer - a hat and a water bottle, curiosity, and a good mood!
You can dedicate half a day to this city, or you can stay here for a whole day, have lunch or dinner in one of the numerous restaurants, spend a few hours strolling through elegant shops, or combine the tour with other thematic walks.
