Located on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina is a hilltop town that is known for its ancient Greek and Roman theater. This area is also home to Mount Etna, an active volcano, and has sandy beaches that overlook cliffs that form coves.
Ancient Greek Theatre
Located on the mountain top of Taormina, the Ancient Greek Theatre is one of the most popular attractions in the town. With views of Mount Etna, this ancient amphithea is a must see.
The ancient Greek Theater was built during the third century BC. It was constructed on the edge of a mountain, and had a view of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast. The trees in the background made for a peaceful setting. The theater was used for a variety of performances and religious rituals.
The theatre is divided into three main sections. The upper section of the theater has stepped seating and an elevated stage. The lower section has an orchestra, and is located on the level of the stage. The ancient theatre had a capacity of up to 10,000 spectators.
The Romans reconstructed the ancient theater in the second century AD. They added corinthian columns and a partial roof. They also built a columned portico called a cavea. The cavea consisted of a flight of steps. It was used to accommodate the spectators between acts.
The ancient theater was also used for gladiator bouts. The ancient Greek Theatre is a must see for tourists in Sicily. It is a fascinating history and a symbol of Greek culture. It tells a story of the people who loved theater and the great civilization it reflected.
The Ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina has hosted many entertainment events over the years. The theatre has been used for opera, ballet, and symphonic concerts. It is also home to a small museum.
The theatre also hosts a variety of events over the summer months. It is also home to the Taormina Film Festival.
Palazzo Corvaja
Located at the heart of Taormina's historic center, Palazzo Corvaja is a monument that is a beautiful blend of Arab, Norman and Spanish styles. It is one of the most important places in Taormina to visit.
The Corvaja family has been a notable family in Taormina for centuries. The family has been involved in magistrature, arts and administration. They were one of the first noble families to live in Taormina. They built the palace around the middle of the 14th century.
The main body of the palace is a Norman style tower. The facades feature columns and double lancet windows. The walls of the courtyard are decorated with reliefs that depict The Creation. The entrance is on the south side of the palace. The entranceway has a Gothic doorway.
The palace was expanded and rebuilt after WWII. The right wing was constructed to house meetings of the Sicilian Parliament. The new wing also houses the offices of the Regional Tourist Office. The palace has four floors.
The palace is surrounded by Taormina's public gardens. They are lush in summer. The gardens once belonged to Florence Trevelyan. Today, they are used as an exhibition center. The terraces offer fantastic views of Taormina.
The palace was renovated by Armando Dillon, a Neopolitan architect, between 1945 and 1948. The palace has four main floors and a large central courtyard. The entrance to the inner courtyard has a Gothic doorway. The courtyard has strong references to the Arab world.
Palazzo Corvaja has also been the home of the Sicilian Museum of Art and Traditions. This museum contains a collection of Sicilian puppets, 18th century oil portraits of Sicilian bourgeoisie, and an estate of a local antiques dealer.
Madonna della Rocca
Known for its incredible views, the Madonna della Rocca is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Taormina. This chapel stands on a mountain top and was built into a rock. The church is located near the Saraceno Castle and overlooks Taormina and the Ionian Sea.
The Madonna della Rocca has a unique history and is a place of pilgrimage for many. The church was built into the rock in the 12th century. It was restored in the 1600s.
The sanctuary was built by villagers who discovered a grotto filled with an apparition of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus. This apparition inspired the villagers to build a shrine. The shrine was built into the rock and became a pilgrimage site for many faithful.
The shrine has two symmetrical windows and a door with jambs made of Taormina stone. The church features a beautiful balcony that overlooks Taormina, the Ionian Sea, and Mount Etna.
Taormina is located on the East Coast of Sicily. It is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months. The town was a major destination for the European elite during the 19th century. It was also a popular tourist destination during the golden era of Hollywood.
The Greek Theater in Taormina is the second largest Greek theatre in Sicily. It has spectacular views and is a popular venue for opera singers and concerts. It has been dramatically altered to accommodate events. Many opera singers have performed there in the last few years.
The Greek Amphitheater is one of the most scenic spots in Europe. It was a site for gladiator shows in the past. It has been dramatically altered for various events, but it still has a natural impact.
Alcantara Gorge
Located just outside Taormina, Italy, the Alcantara Gorge is a natural beauty and must see attraction. The gorge features basalt formations and the river that flows through it. It is also home to rare flora and fauna. It offers trails and activities year round.
The Alcantara Gorge was formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 2400BC. It is part of a fault system that runs along the northern slopes of Mount Etna. It is a unique landscape of black lava walls and prism shaped rocks.
It is located just 30 minutes by bus from Taormina. Taormina is a scenic town that is located on a terrace above the Ionian Sea. The city features the best Greek theater in the island. During summer months, the town is full of tourists visiting the Alcantara River.
Visitors can hike the trail to the beach, or can body raft the river. There are many activities to enjoy here, including tasting local foods. There are also guided walks through the Alcantara Valley.
The Alcantara Valley is a beautiful region that is full of citrus trees, olive trees, cherry trees and other fruit plants. It has a super fertile soil due to the frequent eruptions of Mount Etna. It is also home to the famous Nerello Mascalese wine. It is also an excellent place for photographers, due to its picturesque landscape.
The Alcantara Gorge is a popular destination for travelers who are looking for an adventure. It is a great place to take photographs, hike, canoe and even take a dip in the river. It is a fun place for families. The river is clear in the summer and has small waterfalls along its course.
Saracen Castle
Located on top of the Monte Tauro, Saracen Castle in Taormina is a stunning place to visit in Sicily. In addition to the castle, there are many other attractions in the town. It is easy to see why Taormina is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy.
The castle was built on the site of Taormina's ancient Greek acropolis. The walls of the castle are well-preserved and the tower is still recognizable. In addition to the walls, there is an underground corridor.
Another amazing attraction is the Greek-Roman theatre. The theatre was built in the third century BC. It still has incredible performances. Among other features, the theatre has a semicircular cavea and a high stage loft. The stage is so high that the sides of the audience touch the top rows of seats.
Taormina is also known for its Greek-Roman theater. This theater is the best Greek theatre in Sicily. It was built under Hiero II of Syracuse in the third century BC.
The Greek-Roman theatre is situated over a cliff and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Its interior is decorated with works from the 15th and 16th centuries. In addition to the theatre, Taormina has an ancient amphitheater. The Greek-Roman theatre still has excellent performances.
There is also the Castello di Venere. This medieval castle is on top of the old Roman temple. It was built around the 12th century. It was originally a port of call for pirates.
Taormina also has an excellent cable car that takes visitors to the nearby island of Isola Bella. The island has a small nature preserve. You can also take a walk around the island. It is an easy day trip from Messina.
