Port of Selinunte – Ph. powell’sPoint/shutterstock
Sicily is a land of a thousand faces, filled with cultural influences and scenic wonders that make it a rich tourist treasure chest suited to the needs of every traveler. It is therefore suitable not only for vacations of a seaside nature, but also for magnificent tours through history and art, by virtue of the many beauties within its vast territory.
So if you are a passionate adventurer or seeker of cultural wonders, taking a look at ferries to Sicily could be a brilliant idea from a vacation perspective, but what are the must-see places in the region from an artistic point of view? Here are some must-see destinations on an itinerary among Sicilian beauties.
Isola di Ortigia, Siracura – Ph. Marius Dobilas/shutterstock
Syracuse
Syracuse has been one of the biggest attractors of Sicilian cultural tourism for years, thanks to its strong and fascinating influence that draws mainly from Ancient Greece. The great Archaeological Park of Naepolis is a must-see for those who love this kind of experience, where it is possible to admire various architectural works belonging to both the Greek world and Ancient Rome. Syracuse, however, is not only a land of Hellenic overtones, as it also features buildings of a Baroque nature, such as the city’s famous cathedral.
Sicilian Baroque in Ortigia – Ph. Massimo Salesi/shutterstock
Agrigento
The highly appreciated Agrigento, famous for its marvelous Valley of the Temples, cannot be missing from the list. Indeed, in this vast area it is possible to take a journey through the history of Ancient Greece, with its ten temples, three sanctuaries and even a necropolis, children of an ancient and fascinating world, perfectly preserved and guarded. The city turns out to be one of Sicily’s most important cultural hubs since time immemorial, so much so that a long series of prestigious art-themed events are organized every year.
Valley of the Temples – Ph. Wead/shutterstock
Catania
Catania is the city of folklore, tradition and hidden gems. Historic markets, Baroque palaces and monuments belonging to different eras make it an important crossroads of Sicilian tours, where history meets tradition in its most genuine form. Impossible not to mention the famous Fountain of the Elephant, the city’s symbol composed of a lava elephant supporting an Egyptian-style obelisk.
The Elephant Fountain and the Basilica Cathedral Sant’Agata, Catania – Ph. Teresa Mills-Clark/flickr
Trapani
The “Crescent of Sicily,” also called “The City of a Hundred Churches,” is certainly another of the pivotal places that one needs to include in one’s Sicilian itinerary. In ancient times a fundamental commercial hub between Venice and the Carthaginian Empire, Trapani today presents itself as not only one of the most important destinations for seaside tourism, but also for its great cultural value. In addition to the magnificent cathedral of San Lorenzo, the city offers a strong Arab influence in its architecture and art, a factor that makes it undoubtedly fascinating.
San Lorenzo Cathedral – Ph. Greg Johnson/flickr
Palermo
Entering Palermo is a bit like setting off on a journey into the past. The city is a true melting pot of cultures and artistic manifestations. Cultural influences are not limited to Arab and Spanish traits, but it is even possible to see evidence of Byzantine and even Phoenician culture in different parts of the city. In addition to a visit to the city’s cathedral, a stroll through the center is also among the experiences to be had in the Sicilian capital, as it offers a triumphant mix of architectural wonders that are absolutely worth experiencing.
Fountain of Shame or Pretoria Fountain – Ph. andreaguagni72/flickr
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