Città di Noto (Sicily)

Coming back from my sicilian holidays i want today show you a beautiful pearl of the Mediterranean sea......

-The city of NOTO-

Noto town hall
Noto is a living book. Every corner, even the hidest, speaks about history, people, colours, shows you capitals, baroque friezes, churches and noble palaces. There are cities and countries who recall the purity and the harmony of art. Noto, is one of them; with its architectural and cultural beauties the visitors has the feeling to be in a temple of living stones.

Panoramic view of the city
The city, honoured recently by UNESCO with the title of "cultural patrimony of humanity", represents the emblem of wealth and luxury in the Baroque age in Sicily. Palaces are maiden of yellowish stone, their colour changes during the day like only the sun can do, is an unexpected treasure, scattered in the territory, containing stories of ancient civilizations.

Chiesa madre San Nicolò after the fall 13 of march 1996

The church of San Nicolò it has been opened again on june 2007 after a long restoration lasted more than 10 years, after the fall happened in the 1996. Infact, if you see the photo above the church it hasn't get the roof. Fortunately the fall didn't regard the front of the church that, probably thank to a miracle, didn't break down! The front and the dome (that part which didn't collapse) are certainly the best part of the church while the inside aisle, even if re-constructed exactly as it was before the fall, is not exceptional considering that all ancient paintings they have been destroyed.

Church of San Domenico

If you decide to spent one day in this beautiful little city (how to get look here) the opportunities not to miss are: a visit to the centre of the city (look here for itineraries) enjoying its history and its popular traditions, a plunge into the blue sea, parades and village festivals. Among these don't forget the beautiful Flower Festival the last week of may! After 22 years this Festival has become a real tradition and custom so lot that the Flower Festival of Noto is, by now, a fixed event, rich in appointments, shows, assemblies and costume parades! When in Sicily don't forget to try the yummy "granita siciliana" and "brioches col gelato"! ;-)

Be amazed by the art, the culture, the traditions, the sea and the sun of one of the most beautiful city of Sicily.

I'm sorry but many links are in italian i could no find them in english, sorry!