Catania

Catania

Scenically located in the shadows of the volcanic Mount Etna, Catania is surrounded by a region rich in citrus trees, eucalyptus forests and olive groves. Tour Via dei Crociferi, where the magnificent Roman Theatre has been reconstructed.

Activities

Located at the northern end of Via Etnea, the Bellini Gardens offer fine views and a tranquil enclave away from the bustle of Catania’s busy main street. In the Piazza San Francesco stands the house where Catania’s greatest native son, the composer Vincenzo Bellini, was born in 1801. It is now the Bellini Museum, containing memorabilia of the man and his work. The Duomo church is a fine example of Vaccarini’s work. The composer Bellini is buried inside the cathedral and a sumptuous chapel is dedicated to Sant’Agata, Catania’s patron saint. Outside in the square stands the obelisk-balancing elephant carved out of lava stone, representing the emblem of the city.

Shopping

The main shops are located along Via Etnea and Corso Italia. Local handicrafts, including ceramics and puppets in medieval costumes, as well as Italian fashions, leather articles and shoes are worth looking into.

Food

Sicilian specialties such as Spaghetti alla Norma made with fresh pasta, basil, eggplant and tomatoes are particularly tasty. Being a seaport, the focus is naturally on seafood, notably cuttlefish. Other typical dishes include pasta with shelled prawns and spaghetti with a spicy sauce of pine nuts, fennel, spices, and chopped sardines. For dessert try the cassata, a combination of sponge cake, ricotta cheese and candied fruit. A glass of wine from the vineyards at the slopes of Mount Etna will accompany your meal nicely.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Italy.

Weather Forecast

Sailing Calendar

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