IMPORTANT HISTORIC TOWNS AND VILLAGES
The Greek Jewl of philosophy and ancient culture.
The Temple of Apollo was built in the 6th century BC. Today it has preserved ruins with well-reconstructed floor plans, Doric columns, fragments of ledges, foyer and stairway stages (restored in 2013). The temple is situated in the market beyond the bridge.
Castello Eurialo – a castle, archaeological site with a double moat, fortification, five gates and two water tanks, partly buried in the rock.
Cathedral of the Birth of the Virgin Mary – originally a Greek temple of Athena that was built after the victory over Carthage in 480 BC on the upper plateau of The Island of Ortigia. In front of him stood a huge statue of the goddess Athena with a gilded shield, which served during the day to orient the mariners as a beacon. From this structure there are preserved Doric columns in the structure of the dome. In the 7th century AD, the temple was converted into the first Christian basilica, sacked by the Arabs. The Romanesque basilica was devastated by earthquakes in 1542 and 1693. In 1728-1757, the temple was rebuilt, the Baroque western facade was designed and implemented by Andrea Palma of Palermo.
The Temple of Santa Lucia alla Badia stands in the square by the Dome and is dedicated to Saint Lucia, the patron saint of the city. This Roman martyr belonged to the Christian community of Syracuse, hiding her rites in the catacombs here, and was executed at the behest of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. The altar image of this titular saint was painted by Caravaggio in 1609.
St Mary’s Cathedral. John the Evangelist in the Catacombs (chiesa di San Giovanni alle catacombe) is the most valuable early Christian building in Syracuse, dating from the 6th to 7th centuries AD.
Dionysus’ ear is a cave 65 metres long, 23 metres high and up to 11 metres wide. The entrance to it is ear-shaped, with excellent acoustics. A prison was set up here during the reign of Dionysius I. It is part of the Latomia rock massif.
Greek Theatre – its amphitheatre has a diameter of about 138 meters and 67 rows (degrees) carved in the rock; it is one of the greatest theatres in the ancient world. It was built in the 5th century BC. The stone stands are divided into nine sectors. The proscenium had a large orchestra pit in the cave. The theatre could hold 15,000 spectators. The top bleachers have the best view of all of Syracuse.
Fonte Aretusa – A spring of fresh water springing up on the seashore in the middle of an old development of the island of Ortigia, it is converted into a circular pool with a ribbon; it is of Ancient Greek origin. His reputation connects him to Diana’s nymph Aretus, who seduced alfeo the hunter.
Monasterio dei fratri capucchini (Latomio del paradiso) – a capuchin monastery on the outskirts of Syracuse in the Rock Massif of Latomia; a remarkable monumentand nature reserve, with caves of monks carved into rocks and overgrown with forest. The fenced area is only accessible at a limited time.
Santuario della Madre Vergine delle Lacrime – is a huge central temple founded after the apparition of a weeping picture of the Virgin Mary and the miraculous 1953 healing of a terminally ill woman here. This giant concrete structure was built between 1966 and 1985, but consecrated only in 1994 by Pope John Paul II. Its ribbed spire dominates the city.
What to see in Palermo.
Proud of its origins with Greek, Arabic and Roman influences, the city is still bustling with markets, ancient streets alive and opera houses full of artists and enthusiasts alike, making it an interesting and fascinating place to visit.
Swim in the calm waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, climb the largest active volcano in Europe or walk through the ancient labyrinth of streets. These are just some of the unusual and fun activities and attractions in Palermo.
Rustic narrow lanes and ornate buildings aged by time are a guarantee that in Palermo you never know what awaits you around the corner. Behind the small plain facades scattered throughout the historic center you will find extravagant churches.
Visit the cool catacombs slumbering beneath the humming crowd and sample delicious arancini, cannoli and other traditional dishes. Here’s a list of how to explore this ancient city where the famous street foods Panelle, Cazzilli and Rascatura originated.
PALERMO CATHEDRAL, ITALY
As different conquering nations and empires have been active in Palermo, this cathedral has a myriad of different styles and is a truly fascinating structure and a wonderful monument of Palermo. It was originally built in 1185 on the orders of Pope Gregory I and went through many uses including a mosque and a crypt.
The Moorish influence is evident on the exterior and includes a fine central basilica and a tall Renaissance clock tower. The porticoed side entrance is additionally equipped with several decorated columns and a triangular pediment with a detailed fresco.
The interior is an important element of the treasury, which houses various artifacts from different time periods of the church, as well as the tomb of Emperor Frederick II.
Palermo Cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Sicily.
CAPELLA PALATINA – CHAPEL
Located in close proximity to the Pallazzo dei Normanni in the center of Palermo, the Palatine Chapel is one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine architecture and artwork in Europe. As part of the palace, it was built in 1132 by order of the Sicilian king Roger II.
The chapel is dedicated to Saint Peter, has a central basilica and offers a wealth of fantastic Byzantine artwork and architecture.
The walls and ceiling are covered in amazing mosaics with a fantastic amount of detail and color and are full of religious and historical iconography. In every nook and cranny you’ll find another detail or interesting depiction – it’s truly a true feat of ingenuity and artistry.
TIP: You can also discover the beauty of churches and chapels in other Italian places such as the Vatican.
PALAZZO DEI NORMANNI ( PALACE OF THE NORMANS)
The Royal Palace, or Palace of the Normans, served as the main seat of the Sicilian kings. It is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe and was originally built in the 9th century by the Emir of Palermo. The Norman and Moorish influence is undeniable and the palace has an official and majestic feel.
The main feature of the exterior is the central courtyard, which features several beautiful stone arches and decorations. In addition, the Capella Palatina is a connecting building that houses several beautiful mosaics and works of art dating back hundreds of years.
Be sure to visit this royal residence for a real piece of Sicilian history. It should be on everyone’s list of what to see in Palermo.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF PALERMO
Located right next to the Teatro Massimo, the Archaeological Museum is a great place for history buffs and one of Palermo’s top attractions. This museum contains an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and various artifacts and finds from the region and island of Sicily and Palermo.
The museum is divided into different sections and can be easily navigated – for example, underwater artefacts, Phoenician artefacts, Roman artefacts and others are on display here. Notable items include the Palermo Stone, which contains a list of Egyptian rules, a marble statue of a Satyr, lion sculptures from the ancient site of Selinunte, and a selection of decorated Greek pottery.
LA MARTORANA
Palermo is full of ancient and beautiful ecclesiastical buildings and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Admiralty (Martorana) is a truly magnificent example. Like Palermo Cathedral, La Martorana is characterized by a combination of different architectural styles due to years of conquest.
Located in Piazza Bellini, next to the famous Pretoria Fountain and Quattro Canti Square, the church is one of Palermo’s most beautiful monuments. Inside this fairytale structure, there is again sublime design and artwork – the main dome contains a golden mosaic of Christ, and the ceilings and vaults are full of frescoes and colorful depictions.
It is truly a fantastic structure to look at and its ornate workmanship will leave you staring in disbelief. It is among the must-sees in Palermo.
CAPUCHIN ABBEY AND CATACOMBS
The Capuchin Order dates back to the 1500s and this abbey was dedicated to their use. While the abbey itself is not a fantastic structure, the catacombs are a true wonder and unlike any other attraction in Europe.
Here you will venture underground into the vast catacombs and see a macabre number of burials and well-preserved bodies from different time periods. Capuchin monks preserved and preserved the bodies in their original clothing and also used embalming techniques.
Tours of the catacombs are currently available and you can view this bizarre burial ground containing over 8,000 bodies. Due to its uniqueness, it is one of the greatest attractions of Palermo.
TIP: Visitors can find themselves in a similar atmosphere in the underground of the city of Brescia, which is also open to the public.
MONTE PELLEGRINO
Sicily and Palermo are full of mountains and hilly areas, and Monte Pellegrino is located very close to Palermo and offers an escape to nature with a unique view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. As well as being a fantastic tourist attraction, the locals also like to come here for an afternoon of entertainment, so expect to mingle a bit here.
This mountain is only 9 km from the city center, it is easily accessible and there is a regular bus service from Politeama to the top. If you are particularly brave and fit, it is possible to hike to the top of Mount Pellegrino, but do not undertake this trip unless you are confident in your fitness and ability to survive!
If you are traveling to Italy for a hiking adventure, your main stop should definitely be Bolzano, Italy.
SAN GIOVANNI DEGLI HEREMITI
This really small and charming church dates back to the 6th century and is remarkably well-preserved despite its age. At one end of the church there are domed towers, characterized by a bright red color that is still very vivid.
The architectural style is considered a combination of Arabic and Norman, but has later Roman additions. At the back of the church there is a pleasant garden full of exotic plants and trees.
As one of the most important Arab-Norman buildings in Palermo, it remains relatively simple inside. It only has a few frescoes and religious artworks.
Points of interest in Palermo – Surroundings
MONDELLO BEACH: Just 15 minutes north of the city is Mondello Beach, an ideal place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea on warm days. This seaside resort is easily accessible by bus, so it can be crowded, but it’s worth it.
PORTA NUOVA: Right next to the Norman Palace is Porta Nuova. The monumental city gate is the entrance to Cassaro, the oldest street in the city. First built in 1583, Porta Nuova is hard to miss as it is located in the center of the tourist area. As you pass, stop for a moment to admire the carvings.
CEFALU: From Palermo you can reach the wonderful city of Cefalu by train in 50 minutes. Visit the beach, go for lunch by the sea or stroll through the winding streets. The Cathedral of Cefalù, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also worth a visit. The outside is almost as interesting as the inside. If you’re feeling particularly brave, climb the hill for panoramic views.
Three hearts of one city
Almost sixty thousand Agrigento on the southern coast of Sicily is divided into three parts. The medieval city center is surrounded by concrete blocks from the post-war era. About two kilometers south of the city, there is a third part, which is visited by visitors from all over the world. The local Valle dei Templi, or Valley of the Temples, was already called in ancient times by the ancient Greek poet Pindar “the most beautiful of all mortal cities”. Johann Wolfgang Goethe also admired the local archaeological site. It is therefore not surprising that since 1997 the site has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Former Akragas, now Agrigento, is actually a spectacular open-air museum. The Greeks built their temples here on the slope of the rocky ridge in such a way that even from afar, when viewed from the sea, they created majestic silhouettes in the local landscape. The designation Valley of the Temples is therefore very inaccurate, because the area is actually on top of a hill.
In the Greek era, the city boasted a population of 200,000 and the largest Greek temples ever were built here. Today, ancient Agrigento is the site with the largest concentration of ancient Greek architecture in one place outside of Greece.
In the eastern part of the complex, the Tempio della Concordia, or Temple of Concord, catches your attention at first sight. This impressive temple from 430 BC it belongs to the best-preserved buildings of Greek antiquity ever. Goethe praised its “slender artistic structure”. The Doric columns are slightly widened in the lower third, which gives the temple a very light impression despite its size. A little higher up is the tomb of the ancient Agrigentian tyrant Theron. At the very top of the slope stands the Temple of Juno, also known as the Temple of the Goddess Hera. Half of its former 50 columns are still standing here.
The second, western part of the complex is dominated by the Tempio di Giove, the Temple of Zeus. Construction began in 480 BC. as a celebration of Agrigento’s victory over Carthage. However, as the Carthaginians were later victorious, the temple was never completed. However, if completed, with its gigantic dimensions of 112×56 meters, it would be among the largest ancient structures ever. In addition to the columns, which were supposed to reach a height of up to 20 meters, the structure was supported by statues of Atlantean giants. You can see a copy of one of them right in the temple today.
In Agrigento, lovers of beautiful nature or relaxing on the beaches will also find something to their liking. The most famous local beaches are Spiagge Punta Bianca and Monte Grande di Agrigento. Spiaggia San Leone di Agrigento, covered with golden sand, is very popular among surfers.
At the beginning of February, the whole area around Agrigento is covered with fragrant almond blossoms. At this time, the city begins to prepare for the annual marzipan festival. It is sold here in the shape of everything from thorny prickly pears to lemons that look real. Just squeeze them out.
Interesting places and monuments in Taormina, Sicily
Greek Amphitheater (Ancient Theater of Taormina)
There is no doubt that the Greek Amphitheater, the second largest theater of its kind in all of Sicily, is the most beautiful monument in all of Taormina. It is estimated that it was built around the 3rd century BC – during the time when Sicily was inhabited by the Greeks, as evidenced by the typically Greek technology used in the processing of the stone bricks used for its construction.
As it extends over an area 50 meters wide and 120 meters long, it is believed that roughly 100,000 cubic meters of stone had to be removed to build it. It consists of an auditorium, which in its heyday could seat about 5,400 spectators, orchestras and a stage, which, although it has lost part of its walls, provides the audience with an even greater view of the crystal clear sea together with the beautiful Sicilian landscape dominated by Mount Etna .
Duomo Cathedral (Duomo, Cathedral of Taormina)
While walking around the beautiful center of Taormina, be sure to stop at the Duomo square, where the cathedral of St. Nicholas. It dates from the 15th century, when it took the place of a smaller medieval church, and very quickly became the central church of the whole city.
At first glance, you would probably guess that it is more of a fortress, but after entering its premises, you will be convinced that it is indeed a religious building. Saint Nicholas, to whom the cathedral was dedicated, and Saint Pankrác, the patron saint of Taormina, will watch over you when you arrive and when you leave.
Corvaja Palace (Palazzo Corvaia)
However, we can also thank the Arabs who inhabited Sicily from the 9th to the 11th century for the monuments here, and who left behind a tower that formed the basis for the construction of the Corvaja Palace. The left wing of the palace was only built in the 13th century. The extension also included a staircase leading from the main courtyard to the first floor, on the balcony of which there are frescoes depicting the creation of Eve, original sin and the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. The construction of the right wing did not begin until the 15th century, on the occasion of a meeting of the then Sicilian Parliament.
The palace was named after one of the oldest and most respected families in all of Taormina, which occupied it for some time. Unfortunately, it was completely neglected until the end of the Second World War, and it underwent extensive reconstruction only in the second half of the 20th century. Today it is home to the local tourist center as well as a popular tourist destination.
The island of Isola Bella
Just a few tens of meters from the coast of a small bay is the tiny island of Isola Bella, which in translation means “beautiful island” – and that’s what it really is. For many years it belonged to the British gardener Florence Trevelyan, who used it to grow exotic plants and enriched several places in Taormina with her gardening successes. It has been owned by the Sicilian Region since the 1990s and has been declared a nature reserve thanks to the World Wide Fund for Nature. If you dare to swim to its stone beach, you can use it to sunbathe or go straight to explore its natural beauty.
Where to go for trips in the area?
Mount Etna
You can enjoy the view of Mount Etna from many corners of Taormina. However, mere sight cannot match personal experience. Fortunately, it is less than an hour’s drive away, and thanks to its height of 3,329 meters above sea level, you will definitely not miss it.
Scientists estimate that it was formed about 80 million years ago, while its volcanic activity began “only” 500,000 years ago and is currently ongoing almost constantly. It belongs to the most active volcanoes in the world and is the highest of them in Europe. Until 1911, it had only one peak, but its activity during the last century caused the creation of three more. Although they are closed to visitors, if the weather and Etna permit, you can go to the craters accompanied by a tourist guide.
Alcantara Gorge
However, Etna is not the only gem far and wide, in its immediate vicinity you will find many interesting places, and one of them is Rokle Alcantara. Located just 20 kilometers from Taormina, it is an ideal place for its visitors to cool off during the hot summer days. The local environment encourages many activities. You can get wet in the waters of the Alcantara River, which also lent its name to the gorge, go on a hike along the rocky peaks or go to the nearby valley and help harvest olives or citrus fruits.
Beautiful sun-drenched beaches, a very rich history, excellent Italian cuisine and a pleasant atmosphere – all this proves that Taormina is a holiday destination with a capital D. Whether you visit here alone, with your family or with your significant other, you should definitely visit it before by leaving you put it on the list of places you would like to visit again in the future.
Churches and cathedrals
St Agatha’s Cathedral in Piazza Duomo, a three-ship basilica with a Romanesque Norman chorus from the 11th century, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, arch Girolamo Pallazotto. In the southern apse is the chapel of the patron saint of St. Agatha with the silver sarcophagus of St. Agatha, an annually revered and carried city in a procession that bypasses the route marked by the temples (Santa Agata le Vetere, Santa Agata alla Fornace). The adjacent buildings belong to the Archbishop’s Constabulary, the opposite palace to the Archbishop’s (formerly Jesuit) Archives. To the right of the main entrance to the Dome is the Dome Jewellery and Museum. Here the foundations of roman baths have been excavated, the remains of masonry are preserved in the southwest corner of the dome, for example
Fontana dell Elefante fountain in Dome Square; created by sculptor Giovanni Battista Vaccarini using a Roman (Ancient) statue of an elephant made of lava stone from Etna (1736)
St Mary’s Church. Nicholas with the Benedictine monastery in the Arena on the Hill, the monumental Baroque dome church dominates the city; the convention buildings and library are now the headquarters of the University’s Faculty of Philosophy[3]
Collegiata = Collegiate Temple of Our Lady of alms (Santa Maria Eleumosina) – a major structure of the Radical Baroque dating back to 1758
Capuchin Monastery
Clariscus Monastery with St Mary’s Church. Clara
Franciscan Monastery with St Mary’s Church. Francis
Jesuit College with St. Mary’s Church. Francis Borgias
Secular buildings
Castello Ursino Castle of Byzantine origin, (founded around 800 AD), plundered by the Arabs, converted around 1239 into the seat of Emperor Frederick II. Štaufsky, 1393 basement and ground floor encased in lava, stone removed by archaeological survey from 1999-2005; today the headquarters of the Regional Museum (Museo civico), lapidarium and gallery collections, occasional exhibitions
The Roman Theatre (Teatro romano) – an amphitheatre for 7,000 spectators, based on Greek foundations dating back to the 5th century BC, is adjacent to another smaller Odeon Theatre
Vincenzo Bellini Theatre – a neo-Renaissance building in DC Square
Museo Belliniano – museum of native, music composer Vincenzo Bellini
A Roman amphitheatre (fragments captured by archaeological research beneath the square), with underground passages; it was constructed along the lines of Rome’s Colosseum, for 16,000 people[2]
Town hall and headquarters of the municipal police – in Piazza dell Duomo; carriages and stretchers are displayed in the passage way for the pilgrimage festival of St Agatha
University (Università degli studi di Catania) – The oldest university in Sicily was founded by King Alfons of Aragon in 1434; it currently has 12 faculties; the building was built in baroque style after the 1693 earthquake
Palazzo Biscari – the palace of the aristocratic family with richly decorated rococo interiors
Palazzo del Toscano – neo-Renaissance building from 1870, architect Enrico Alvino, city residence of Grand Dukes of Tuscany
What to see in Catania
There are many sights in Catania worth visiting. Among the most important is the Ancient Greek Theatre, located in the city centre. The theatre was built in the 2nd century BC and could hold up to 15,000 spectators. Today there are various cultural events and festivals.
Another monument you should not miss in Catania is St Mary’s Cathedral. Agatha, located in Piazza del Duomo. The cathedral was built in the 11th century and has been rebuilt several times over the years. The interior is lavishly decorated and the cathedral houses relics of St. Louis. Agatha, patron saints of the city.
In addition to these monuments, Ursino Castle, which was built in the 13th century and served as a defensive fortress, is also worth seeing in Catania. Today there is a museum in the castle where you can see various artefacts and works of art from the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
What to see around Catania
There are many interesting places around Catania worth visiting. One of the most famous is the Etna volcano, located about 30 km north of the city. Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On Etna you can take the cable car up to over 3,000 meters, from where there are wonderful views of the countryside.
Another interesting place is Taormina, a picturesque town on the Ionian coast. The city is known for its ancient theatre, which offers beautiful views of the sea and the Etna volcano. There are also many historic buildings and narrow streets in Taormina, with plenty of shops and restaurants.
There are also many archaeological sites near Catania, such as Syracuse, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Syracuse you will find many monuments from the period of ancient Greece and Rome, such as the Ancient Theatre, the amphitheatre and the temple of the goddess Athena.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARKS AND MONUMENTS
The Archaeological Park is a magical place where the interweaving of culture and environment is presented in its most fascinating form.
A tour highlighting the natural stories that will make you appreciate the territory’s geology, vegetation and fauna here and the historical accounts that tell us about architecture and urban planning there.
Spaces that have changed over time, thanks also to the presence of people, where the different aspects blend together harmoniously to reveal themselves to the visitor.
The highly innovative nature of the system of archaeological parks in Sicily, which developed in such a way that the trail involves all the territorial organisations, is largely provided by giving them scientific autonomy and organisational, administrative and financial research. This has made the system stronger and more dynamic, allowing the regional archaeological heritage to be preserved, managed, conserved and defended and make it easier to access. It’s an instrument of cultural and social growth, in a dynamic relationship with the surrounding world.
Sicily’s Archaeological Parks were conceived and curated down to the smallest details by the late councillor, Sebastiano Tusa, an internationally-known archaeological scholar, so the Parks involve fourteen territorial organisations: new experience-based trails that wind through extraordinary open-air museums.
All you have to do is choose your tour and set out with a one great goal: enjoy them all!
- Tour of the Valle dei Templi Archaeological and Landscape Park
- Tour of the Tindari Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Himera, Solunto and Jato Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Kamarina and Cava D’Ispica Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Gela Archaeological Park, Morgantina Archaeological Park and Casale di Piazza Armerina Roman Village
- Tour of the Aeolian Islands Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Catania and Valle dell’Aci Archaeological and Landscape Park, Naxos and Taormina Archaeological Park, Leontinoi Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Syracuse, Eloro and Villa del Tellaro Archaeological Park
- Tour of the Segesta Archaeological Park, Selinunte, Cave di Cusa and Pantelleria Archaeological Park, Lilybeo Archaeological Park
Did you really think that an extraordinary island like Sicily, with all its historical and cultural heritage, wouldn’t have other surprises in store for you? The archaeological tours continue… underwater! Find out more.
Other parks list:
Archaeological and landscape park of the Valley of the Temples
Archaeological Park of Gela
Archaeological Park of Catania and Valle dell’Aci which brings together the 2 previous parks:
Greek-Roman archaeological park of Catania;
Archaeological and landscape park of the Aci Valley
Archaeological Park of Morgantina and Villa del Casale that brings together
Archaeological Park of Morgantina
Archaeological park of the Villa Romana del Casale
Archaeological Park of the Aeolian Islands
Archaeological Park of Tindari
Archaeological Park of Himera, Solunto and Monte Iato which brings together the previous parks:
Himera Archaeological Park
Monte Iato Archaeological Park
Solunto Archaeological Park
Archaeological Park of Kamarina and Cava D’Ispica che brings together:
Kamarina Archaeological Park
Archaeological Park of Cava D’Ispica
Archaeological park of Syracuse, Eloro and Villa del Tellaro that brings together
Archaeological Park of Eloro and Villa del Tellaro
Archaeological park of Syracuse
Archaeological Park of Lilibeo – Marsala
Selinunte Archaeological Park, Cave di Cusa and Pantelleria which brings together:
Pantelleria archaeological park
Archaeological Park of Selinunte and Cave di Cusa
Leontinoi Archaeological Park
Archaeological Park of Naxos and Taormina
NATURAL PARKS AND REGIONAL NATURE RESERVES
Sicily’s most inspiring natural beauty spots are protected by numerous parks and reserves that dot the island. Walking trails abound in the parks and you can visit isolated beaches, pristine forests and active volcanoes.
Plus you can spot all manner of local wildlife and visit traditional villages where life is little-changed in decades. Here are eight of our favorite parks for exploring the natural world in Sicily.
Parco Naturale Regionale delle Madonie
Best for traditional villages
The 400 sq km (154 sq mi) Madonie regional park is an outdoor paradise that’s well suited to slow, culturally rich travel. The Madonie Mountains are crowned by Pizzo Carbonara, which is the highest mountain in Sicily after Mt Etna.
Spring here sees spectacular spreads of wildflowers carpeting the mountain slopes; autumn brings wild mushrooms and richly colored foliage; winter draws snow sports enthusiasts and summer offers an escape from the coastal crowds.
This is not just a nature reserve but an area where people live and work, so you can combine hiking with visits to historic hilltop towns. Castelbuono, the charming capital of the Madonie is set amid ancient manna ash and chestnut forests. A 15th-century castle dominates the town’s skyline.
Parco Nazionale Isola di Pantelleria
Best for isolation
One of Sicily’s national parks is halfway to Tunisia. A volcanic outcrop, Pantelleria is Sicily’s largest offshore island. It’s characterized by jagged lava rock formations, steaming fumaroles and mudbaths. The island’s unique agricultural traditions, featuring dwarf grapevines and olive trees laid out on terraces between dry stone walls, earned it Unesco World Heritage status in 2014. There are no true beaches, but Pantelleria’s gorgeous, secluded coves are perfect for snorkeling, diving and boat excursions.
The park protects over 80% of the island, including the unique dammusi – lava rock houses with thick, whitewashed walls and shallow cupolas. Exotic and remote, Pantelleria has long been an escape for top celebrities. It can be reached by ferry and plane.
Parco dell’Etna
Best for volcanic drama
Dominating the landscape of eastern Sicily, Mt Etna is a massive brooding presence. At 3357m (11,013ft) it is Italy’s highest mountain south of the Alps and the largest active volcano in Europe. It’s in an almost constant state of activity and eruptions occur frequently, most spectacularly from the four summit craters, but more often, and more dangerously, from the fissures and old craters on the mountain’s flanks.
The volcano and its slopes comprise the Parco dell’Etna. Encompassing 580 sq km (224 sq mi) and some 21 towns, the park’s varied landscape ranges from the severe, snowcapped mountain top to lunar deserts of barren black lava, beech woods and lush vineyards.
Good bases for exploring Mt Etna include the gritty, medieval port city of Catania and the center of Sicily’s posh summertime society, Taormina.
Parco Regionale dei Nebrodi
Best for solitude
Encompassing the Nebrodi Mountains of northeastern Sicily, the Parco Regionale dei Nebrodi constitutes the single largest forested area in Sicily. It’s dotted with remote and traditional villages that host few visitors.
This lovely, off-the-beaten-track park encompasses an undulating landscape of beech, oak, elm, ash, cork, maple and yew trees that shelter the remnants of Sicily’s wildlife: porcupines, San Fratello horses and wildcats, as well as a healthy population of birds including golden eagles, herons and peregrine falcons. The high pastures are home to farms growing mushrooms and hazelnuts.
With your own vehicle, you can explore the timeless villages and access trailheads that plunge into the forest. Located on the park’s western border, Mistretta is a charming hilltop time capsule where the streets have hardly changed in 300 years.
Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
Best for nature lovers
The tranquil Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is the star attraction on the Golfo di Castellammare, drawing nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. It’s a hiker’s paradise and a haven for wildlife, including some 40 bird species. Wild carob and bright-yellow euphorbia dust the hillsides, along with 700 other species of Mediterranean plants, while hidden coves provide tranquil swimming and snorkeling spots.
From the main coastal path, well-signposted gravel tracks cut through aromatic scrub and broom, almond trees and meadows to picturesque coves with pretty beaches. Only accessible by boat or on foot, top choices include Cala Capreria, with bright turquoise water and ample rocks to laze on, near the park’s southern Scopello entrance; and family-friendly Cala della Disa. Snorkelers favor Cala Marinella for its piercing emerald-green waters, accessed from rocks (there is no beach as such).
The park can be easily reached in under an hour from Palermo.
Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco
Best for bird-watching
Administered by the World Wildlife Fund, this vital bird sanctuary protects 10 sq km of saline (salt pans), divided into two zones, extending from Trapani’s southern outskirts to the hamlet of Saline Grande.
With a couple of weeks’ advance notice, WWF guides can sometimes offer free two-hour tours of the reserve, focusing on migratory waterfowl in spring and fall. In summer, they’ll take you to see the salt harvest.
Besides this reserve near Trapani, the salt pans are also protected by the Riserva Naturale di Stagnone to the south near Marsala. The latter includes San Pantaleo island, home to the noted Phoenician archaeological site of Mozia.
Parco Minerario Floristella Grottacalda
Best for history
The historic remains of sulfur mining that was active in Central Sicily until the mid-20th century are now hidden amidst this pleasantly verdant and forested park. A poignant reminder of the industry’s harsh realities is the black-and-white photography in the park’s compelling museum, showing child miners forced to work in very dangerous conditions. It’s a stark reminder of how poverty has shaped Sicily’s history.
The park is about 15km (9.3 mi) north of Piazza Armerina, an unmissable medieval labyrinth and a good base for the region.
Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa
Best for walking
With your own wheels, you’ll find some stunning beaches and beauty spots west of Agrigento. This includes Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa, a beautiful 7.6 sq km (2.9 sq miles) nature park administered by the World Wildlife Fund.
The site offers plenty of scope for walkers, with well-marked trails and sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coast. The long, deserted Torre Salsa beach is especially beautiful and the rough access road keeps the people count low. (Nearby Siculiana Marina has its own great sandy beach.) The beach is reached from the reserve’s northern entrance, which in turn is under 45 minutes from Agrigento. The city makes a fine base for exploring the rest of the region as well, including the world-renowned Valley of Temples.
