Explore Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island steeped in history and natural beauty. Discover ancient temples like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, or indulge in the operatic grandeur of Teatro Massimo in Palermo. Visit Stromboli, the volcanic island known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” or relax on Rabbit Beach’s pristine shores. Admire the architectural marvels of Cattedrale di Palermo, and savor Sicilian cuisine from arancini to cannoli. With a pleasant climate and fertile lands thanks to its volcanic soil, Sicily offers a unique blend of cultural richness and scenic splendor.
Discover the Treasures of Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the mediterranean sea located in the centre of the mediterranean sea. It also houses one of the tallest active volcanoes in Europe. The Zingaro Natural Reserve is the best place to explore the unspoiled coastal wilderness in Sicily. Due to volcanic eruptions, Sicily has fertile soil and the local agriculture is also helped by the pleasant climate Sicily is also the third-largest wine producer in Italy. In this article, you will get to know about things to do in Sicily, the food to try, and the ways to reach Sicily.
Things to do in Sicily, Italy:
1. Valley of the temples:
In Sicily, this place is locally known as “Valle dei Templi”. This archaeological site located in Agrigento, Italy is an amazing example of Magna Graecia art and architecture. It also holds a place in world UNESCO Heritage Sites. This valley includes the remains of seven temples constructed in the Doric style. The eight temples are the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Heracles, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Temple of Asclepius.
The entry fee is 12 euros. You can also buy the tickets online. To explore the complete site it will take you around 3-4 hours. It opens from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm and then from 3 pm to 7 pm.
2. Massimo Theatre:
It is also known as Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele. This is an opera house located on the Piazza Verdi in Palermo, Sicily. It is the biggest opera house in Italy and the largest in Europe. This opera house is famous among tourists worldwide for its perfect acoustics. The exterior of this theatre is designed in the high neoclassical style incorporating elements. Of the Greek temples. In the front of the theatre, you will find a classic temple. This theatre opens every day from 9:30 am to 6 pm.
3. Stromboli, Sicily:
It is an island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea on the north coast of Sicily. This island houses Mount Stromboli, one of the three active volcanoes in Italy. This island spreads over 12.6 square kilometres. Mount Stromboli has erupted several times and is still active with minor eruptions. Due to this volcanic mountain, this island is got its nickname “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean”. The volcanic mountain has its base over 1000 meters below sea level and stands 926 m above sea level.
4. Rabbit Beach, Sicily:
This beach is located on the west coast of Lampedusa. This beach is called Rabbit beach because of its proximity to the island. It is one of the last places by the local reptiles as their nestle site. Apart from its unique name it offers a lot to attract tourists from all around the world. This beach is the triumph of the magnificence of nature. The beauty of the beach, crystal clear turquoise blue water and soft sand will blow your mind. This is one of the perfect places for spending your evening and enjoying the sunset.
5. Cattedrale di Palermo:
This cathedral is also known as Palemaro Cathedral. It is a cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Palemaro. Walter Ophamil built this cathedral in 1185. The major attractions at this cathedral are the geometric patterns, ziggurat crenellations, maiolica cupolas and blind arches. Several reworkings over centuries have compromised the aesthetic integrity of this cathedral. When you enter the cathedral, on the left you will find the royal Norman tombs, the treasury, and the panoramic view of the roof. You can visit this cathedral between 7 am to 7 pm. Visiting the church is free but if you want to explore the tombs, treasury, crypts, and terrace then you have to pay 7 euros.
Food to try n Sicily, Italy:
1. Arancini:
Arancini consist of rice flour balls stuffed with a filling of meat, tomato sauce, spices, mozzarella, caciocavallo cheese, and peas, coated with breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. They are typically served with hot and spicy chili sauce.
2. Cannoli:
These are Italian pastries. They consist of tube-shaped shells of fried pastry dough and are filled with a sweet, creamy, filling made of ricotta cheese. The size of cannoli can range between 9 to 20 centimetres.
How to reach Sicily, Italy:
1. By flight:
Approaching Sicily by plane is the most convenient way. Sicily has three airports on the island; Falcone Borsellino, Fontanarossa, and Vincenzo Florio. The nearest airport is Fontanarossa. You will get buses or private cabs from outside the airport to reach the city centre.
2. By ferry:
You will find a lot of service providers offering rides to Sicily from the nearby island in the high season. But, the ferries decrease considerably in the winters. You can get to Sicily from Aeolian island, Trapani, Aegadian island, Pantelleria, and Ustica Lines.
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