The “beautiful” Taormina: history, cuisine and beaches of this jewel of eastern Sicily
Mandatory stop for those planning a trip to the land sicula, as well as among the most worldly cities on the entire island. Appreciated for its historical, scenic and even culinary heritage. Taormina turns out to be the ideal destination for those who want to spend a fun-filled vacation without sacrificing culture.
If someone were to spend just one day in Sicily and ask, “What needs to be seen?” I would answer without hesitation, “Taormina” (Guy de Maupassant, La Vie errrante, 1885)
Taormina is famous not only for its special location, but also for the incredible scenery of natural beauty. The city sits on a hill about 200 meters above sea level and overlooks the Ionian, on the Etna
And over beautiful verdant nature. Already from this it is clear that we are talking about a unique city, where smells, scents and traditions converge in a setting of extraordinary beauty.
Taoremenium for the Greeks, remained within the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies with Syracuse as capital and then passed under the Roman Empire. It is a real medieval-age village of great charm and beauty, which has always attracted poets and writers, but especially travelers from all over the world. An important destination for aristocrats, in the 19th century it became famous as the most elegant city in Sicily, where movie stars chose to spend their vacations. In 2006, together with his “Isola Bella” Has been listed as a candidate among the sites Unesco in order to have the coveted recognition of World Heritage Site. The city has also been the set of several Italian films, but surely the most famous filmed here was “The Godfather (The Godfather)” (Part III)..
What to see in Taormina
Anyone who loves culture and art will find fertile ground here and will have something for everyone. Not only churches but also views and buildings are a real discovery for the eye. The greek theater of Taormina encapsulates a bit of its entire history. Excavated inside a rock, it turns out to be the second largest in size in all of Sicily. After that of Syracuse and in Roman times it was used as an arena for gladiators. A point of attraction and for years the setting for international cultural events, breathtaking views can be seen from here, especially at sunset.
Among narrow alleys and many steps the walk to the “beautiful” Taormina inevitably leads to the Cathedral of Taormina (also called cathedral fortress and true symbol of the city since medieval times). The square in front is also home to the City Hall and the beautiful fountain in Baroque style inside which is carved a centaury representing the symbol of the city. Messina Gate e Catania are the ancient city gates that together with the Clock Tower (o “Middle Gate”), demarcated the part of the city that marked the boundaries. Nearby is located 9th April Square which, with its terrace, affords unparalleled views.
Taormina and Isola Bella: between beach and cuisine
What is the best way to end the day in Taormina? Certainly with the visit of the Isola Bella, a strip of land located in the middle of the sea and visible when the tide is low. Donated by Frederick I of Bourbon to the mayor of Taormina in 1806, today this gem has become along with the Greek theater the symbol of Taormina.
Reachable both on foot and by car, it became a Nature Reserve in 1998 and from 2010 is part of the Naxos Archaeological Park which also includes the Ancient Theater of Taormina, the Museum of Giardini di Naxos and Francavilla.
Taormina is inevitably the land of tourism, where getting bored is almost impossible and eating well is a guarantee. La taorminese cuisine is a real meeting of contaminations: from Arab cuisine with the famous rice arancini to Spanish cuisine with the stuffed cake. The dishes instead based on cod e stockfish, have a clear French and Norman influence. The undisputed protagonist remains fish and in particular swordfish, prepared strictly grilled with “sammurigghiu” (a pinzimonio made with garlic oregano and lemon) or alla gghiotta, with onions, white olives, capers and tomatoes. For the sweet tooth, and for those whose sweet tooth should never be lacking, you will be spoiled for choice: from cannoli to cassata, martorana fruit and marzipan treats. Finally, in summer, slushies and sorbets are a must. Have a good visit of the “beautiful one”!
Davide Donnarumma