Wonders of Ancient Sicily
Italy
The most complete collection of Greek temples outside Greece, a UNESCO Roman villa of unrivalled mosaic floors, Baroque cities rebuilt after a 1693 earthquake, a Greek theatre overlooking an active volcano, and Mount Etna, all on the island that was the most fought-over piece of land in the ancient Mediterranean.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Palermo
Sicily's capital layers Arab-Norman churches with Byzantine mosaics over Greek foundations. The Ballarò street market is the most chaotic in the Mediterranean and the street food is among Italy's best.
- Valley of the Temples
Seven 5th-century BCE Greek temples in an almond-grove valley above the sea, better preserved than anything in Greece. The Temple of Concordia survives intact because it became a church in 597 CE.
- Villa Romana del Casale
A 4th-century Roman estate with 3,500 sq m of intact mosaic floors, including the famous Bikini Girls athlete mosaic and a 60 m Great Hunt scene. A UNESCO site unlike any other.
- Ragusa Ibla
A Baroque city rebuilt on a dramatic spur after the 1693 earthquake, with 54 golden-limestone churches and palazzi. The setting for the Inspector Montalbano TV series.
- Syracuse
Once the largest city in the ancient world. A Greek theatre still hosts performances, and the island of Ortigia has a 5th-century BCE temple embedded inside its Cathedral walls.
- Mount Etna
Europe's highest active volcano at 3,329 m. Lava-flow roads from 2001 and 2002 pass the Silvestri craters; wine from the black volcanic soil is the new frontier of Italian viticulture.
- Taormina
A Greco-Roman theatre perched on a cliff with Mount Etna filling the stage backdrop and the Ionian Sea below. D.H. Lawrence, Goethe, and Truman Capote all lived here.
Where to Eat
- Antica Focacceria San FrancescoSicilian
Historic eatery in Palermo serving traditional Sicilian street food like arancini and panelle in a charming setting.
- Trattoria dei TempliItalian
Cozy restaurant near the Valley of the Temples offering classic Italian dishes with a view of ancient ruins.
- Al FogherMediterranean
Elegant dining in Piazza Armerina featuring Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, emphasizing local ingredients.
- Ristorante DuomoGourmet
Michelin-starred restaurant in Ragusa Ibla offering innovative Sicilian dishes in a refined atmosphere.
- Don CamilloSeafood
Renowned seafood restaurant in Syracuse's Ortigia district, known for fresh catches and elegant presentations.
Things to Do
- Palermo CathedralHistoric Site
Majestic cathedral blending various architectural styles, reflecting Palermo's rich history and cultural influences.
- Scala dei TurchiScenic Viewpoint
Stunning white limestone cliffs near Agrigento, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Casa Museo del ContadinoMuseum
Charming museum in Piazza Armerina showcasing traditional Sicilian rural life and artifacts.
- Duomo di San GiorgioHistoric Site
Baroque masterpiece in Ragusa Ibla with an impressive facade and panoramic views from its steps.
- Ortigia IslandHistoric Site
Enchanting island in Syracuse's historic center, featuring ancient ruins, baroque architecture, and lively markets.
- Mount Etna Cable CarNature
Exciting ride offering panoramic views of Europe's highest active volcano and its surrounding landscapes.
- Teatro Antico di TaorminaHistoric Site
Ancient Greco-Roman theater in Taormina with stunning views of Mount Etna and the sea.