Hoogtepunten van Sicilië: van barok tot badplaats

About the destination: Syracuse was the greatest of Sicily’s Grecian cities, at one time rivalled only by Athens. Its sites are better than many in Greece. Hot and dry, this provincial capital encapsulates Sicily's timeless beauty. Go to the island of Ortigia, the lovely historic centre, for the Temples of Apollo and Athena. The latter, now the city’s cathedral, has a richly embellished baroque façade, added in the 18th century. Across the street, the Museo Archeologico Nozionale has some exceptional Greek vases. Another museum in the Palazzo Bellomo has a superb collection of paintings and sculpture, amid miniature courtyards, fountains and elegant stairways. For the big sights, travel across town to the archaeological park, Neapolis. Here is the Greek theatre, where classical Greek plays still perform. The many well-preserved reminders of its ancient glory make Syracuse a city of lingering and romance.

About the destination: Noto, often called the “Stone Garden of Sicily,” is a masterpiece of late Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1693, the town was carefully planned with wide, sun‑drenched streets and elegant palazzi that glow honey‑gold at sunset. Strolling along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you’ll encounter a harmonious sequence of churches, monasteries, and noble residences, culminating in the spectacular Noto Cathedral with its sweeping staircase and limestone façade. The joy of visiting Noto lies in wandering without a strict agenda. Step through ornate doorways into quiet courtyards, peek into richly decorated churches like San Domenico, and climb up to viewpoints for panoramic vistas over the town and surrounding countryside. At dusk, the subdued street lighting accentuates balconies, statues, and architectural details, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for an evening passeggiata and an aperitivo at an outdoor café. Beyond its architectural treasures, Noto offers a taste of authentic Sicilian life. The town is renowned for its pastry shops, where you can sample traditional cannoli, granita with brioche, and almond‑based sweets made from locally grown nuts. Nearby beaches such as Lido di Noto and the unspoiled Vendicari Nature Reserve provide an easy escape to clear waters and quiet coves, ideal for a relaxing day trip. Noto also serves as a convenient base for exploring southeastern Sicily. From here, you can visit other Baroque gems like Ragusa and Modica, or head inland to discover lesser‑known villages and vineyards. Whether you’re interested in architecture, food, or simply a slower pace of travel, Noto combines cultural richness with the laid‑back charm that makes Sicily so captivating.

About the destination: Marina di Ragusa, also known as Mazzarelli, is a southern Italian village and hamlet (frazione) of Ragusa, a municipality seat of the homonym province, Sicily. In 2011 it had a population of 3,468,[1] which during the summer rises to more than 60,000.

About the destination: Favara is a town and comune of south central Sicily (Italy), in the province of Agrigento, 8 kilometres (5 mi) north-east of Agrigento by road, with which it forms a conurbation. The town has a considerable agricultural trade, and there are sulfur and other mines in the neighborhood. It is regionally famous for the Easter Lamb, a local pastry produced there from almonds and pistachios. The first signs of human habitation of the area can be dated to the late copper age (2400-1990 a.C.), with monochrome red pottery in the Malpasso style found in a cave in contrada Ticchiara. An excavation of a later burial site (1900-1450 a.C.) from contrada Grazia Vicina has yielded gray achromatic ceramic with connection to the Conca d'Oro style (late copper age in the Palermo region) and to archaic forms of the Castelluccio style (early Bronze Age in central-southern Sicily). Another burial site has been identified in contrada San Vincenzo, which can be dated to the middle Bronze Age (around 1450 a.C.). Remains of a fortification dating to the period of the Greek colonies in Sicily can be found in Contrada Caltafaraci. Following the Roman and Byzantine domination, the Saracen established themselves in Sicily in the 9th and 10th century. A settlement flourished in contrada Saraceno and many traces of their domination can still be found in the denomination of local geographical places. The name of the town itself originates from the Arabian fawwāra (Arabic: ﻓﻮﺍﺭة‎), meaning “Gurgling pool of water”. During the subsequent Norman domination several large structures were built, among others the Chiaramonte Castle, also known as the Medieval Palace. In the 14th century the castle passed to the Chiaramonte family, from which it took its current name. In the 15th century, although protected by city walls, the town underwent a period of population decline, especially between 1439 and 1464. This trend was reversed from 1478 to 1497. In the 16th century the efforts of the De Marinis family contributed to a greater development of Favara. In the 19th century, in the background of the unification of Italy and up to 1883, Favara was the main hub of a large criminal organization known as Fratellanza di Favara. In contemporary history, the mayor of Favara, Gaetano Guarino, was murdered on May 16, 1946, by unknown perpetrators. Calogero Marrone (1889-1945), Righteous Among the Nations, was born and raised in Favara.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Sicily, Prizzi is a charming hilltop town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, you'll be transported back in time, surrounded by medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The town's rich history dates back to ancient times, with influences from the Greeks, Romans, and Normans, each leaving their unique mark on this picturesque locale. One of the highlights of Prizzi is the Church of San Giorgio, a stunning example of Norman architecture. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork that showcase the town's artistic heritage. For those interested in archaeology, a visit to the nearby archaeological site of Monte d'Oro is a must. Here, you'll find remnants of ancient settlements that offer a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the region. Prizzi is also renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, particularly the "Ballu di li Diavoli" or Dance of the Devils, held during Easter. This unique event features masked dancers who perform through the town's streets, reenacting the eternal struggle between good and evil. It's a captivating spectacle that draws visitors from all over the world, providing a fascinating insight into local traditions and folklore. For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding landscape offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking trails weave through the Sicilian countryside, offering stunning vistas and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Whether you're savoring the local cuisine, exploring historical sites, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Prizzi promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler seeking an authentic slice of Sicily.

About the destination: Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city where layers of history, architecture, and culture overlap at every corner. Founded by the Phoenicians, shaped by the Arabs, Normans, and Spanish, it offers a unique mix you can see in its golden mosaics, baroque churches, and lively street markets. Wandering its streets, you’ll pass crumbling palazzi next to elegant theatres, hidden courtyards, and small shrines tucked into alley walls. It’s chaotic, noisy, and utterly captivating. Start in the historic center with the Norman Palace and its dazzling Palatine Chapel, where Byzantine mosaics shimmer in gold. From there, stroll to the Cathedral of Palermo, a masterpiece that blends Arab-Norman, Gothic, and Baroque elements in one structure. Explore the Quattro Canti crossroads and nearby Piazza Pretoria, famous for its dramatic fountain adorned with statues. Don’t miss the churches of La Martorana and San Cataldo, another perfect expression of Palermo’s Arab-Norman heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Palermo’s soul truly reveals itself in its markets. Ballarò, Vucciria, and Capo overflow with fresh produce, seafood, and street food, accompanied by the singsong calls of vendors. Try local specialties like arancine (fried rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), sfincione (thick Sicilian pizza), and cannoli filled with sweet ricotta. In the evening, dine at a trattoria in the old town, then join locals for a passeggiata, a leisurely stroll along Via Maqueda or down to the seafront. Use Palermo as a base to discover the surrounding area: the seaside town of Mondello with its sandy beach, the dramatic cliffs of Monte Pellegrino, and the archaeological site of Segesta are all within easy reach. Whether you’re drawn by art and history, food and wine, or simply the pleasure of getting lost in atmospheric streets, Palermo offers an intense, authentic taste of Sicily that lingers long after you’ve left.

About the destination: When it comes to seeing the sights in Cefalu, every corner holds nothing but beauty and absolute grace. The fishing port that is actually quite ancient is dominated by a magnificent Norman cathedral that is huddled right below the Rocca, which is a large limestone crag. Cefalu has something that everyone can enjoy, whether it’s a day at the beach watching the water, or wandering around taking in all the sights. One of the best things to see in Cefalu in the Festa di San Salvatore that takes place during the first weekend of August, from the 4th to the 6th. Hundreds of men participate in the traditional barefoot dash, the Corsa degil Scalzi, between San Salvatore and Cabras. The run itself is spread over a two day period, and commemorates the episode during 1506, where all the townspeople rushed to save a statue in San Salvatore. This statue was from the Moorish sea raiders, and was the Holy Savior. There are many traditions in Cefalu, Italy, but the most popular one is the Ntinna a Mari. This is one of the most exciting things to see while in Cefalu, because all of the residents love participating. Cefalu is famous for their fishing ports, which is something to see in itself, but this tradition is something that should never be missed while visiting or living there. These events begin on the Saturday, everyone participating is dressed in white and barefoot, and accompany the statue that is along eight kilometers of paths that leads to San Salvatore. However, this portion is just the halfway point. The day after, they go backwards and take the statue all the way back to Cabras, so it can be kept safe in the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta. This festival is extremely important to the people of Cefalu, and is not one that should be missed

About the destination: Taormina is a charming hillside town on the east coast of Sicily, Italy and is one of the island's main tourist resorts. Taormina has been a very popular tourist destination since the 19th century. It has popular beaches (accessible via an aerial tramway) on the Ionian Sea, which is remarkably warm and has a high salt content. Since the opening of the first hotel in 1874, Taormina has become one of the world top tourist destinations where visitors can experience a perfect combination of old times charming atmosphere, preservation of history and culture, an elegant and lively way of life to be enjoyed in relaxing walks through the old town pedestrian areas. The tourist has a lot to do and see: top level art performances at the Greek theatre, several painting exhibitions held in local palazzi and churches, fine elegant shopping along the famous “Corso Umberto” with its classical music coffees and pastry shops. Or visiting local art museums, taking naturalistic walks in the surrounding countryside, golfing at the nearby 18-holes green, enjoying the fantastic beaches at easy reach, where the mild Mediterranean climate allows to practice all water sports as swimming, scuba diving, sailing, windsurfing, or just sunbathing for nearly eight months a year and even more.

About the destination:

Catania is de op een na grootste stad van Sicilië en is gelegen aan de oostkust van het eiland. De stad telt circa 307.000 inwoners en ligt aan de voet van de Etna, de actieve vulkaan die ongeveer 30 kilometer ten noorden van de stad ligt. Catania is een stad vol mooie winkels en fijne restaurants en trattoria's, waar je zowel lokale bewoners als toeristen tegen komt. Het oude centrum, met zijn zwart-witte torens en barokke pleinen, staat op de Werelderfgoedlijst van UNESCO.