Catania is the second largest city in Sicily, located at the foot of the active volcano Etna.Etna can be safely called the most important and most popular attraction of Catania, many tourists seek to climb to its peak.
What to see in Catania
When you arrive in the city, your first stop will be Ursino Castle, founded by Frederick II of Swabia in the 13th century, which now houses a wonderful public museum.While walking through the streets of the center, pay attention to the black and white buildings overlooking large squares. First of all, Palazzo Biscari, Catania's most important private palace and a precious example of Sicilian Baroque.Now take time to Villa Bellini to see one of the two oldest gardens and one of the four main parks in Catania.Finally, head to the Cathedral of Catania, where the city's beautiful square is dominated by "O Liotru", the city's symbol elephant, and stroll along Via Etnea, the main street that stretches for 3 km. Pescheria di Catania, the bustling old morning fish market, reached by climbing a volcanic staircase.
National cuisine
Start with pasta alla Norma, a typical urban dish with tomatoes, salty ricotta, a little basil and roasted eggplant.If you want a lighter alternative, but not too light, choose spaghetti alla Carrettiera, a dish seasoned with oil, raw garlic, pepper and grated pecorino cheese.Always leave some room for a Sicilian cannolo, a crispy rolled wafer with a creamy ricotta filling, of which there are many variations these days. And above all, eat outside. Street food is a must here, whether it's toffee, a typical fried dessert filled with cream or ricotta, or arancino.
