Catania: a black and white Baroque city under the volcano

Catania is the second largest city in Sicily, located at the foot of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. It has experienced ancient Greek, Roman and Arab rule and was rebuilt after the great earthquake in 1693. Black volcanic stone and white limestone interweave to create a unique black and white Baroque city. Must-see attractions 1. Mount Etna You can hike to the top or take a cable car + jeep to observe the crater and lava flow up close. It is recommended to sign up for a half-day tour. There are also vineyards and orchards around the volcano, suitable for wine tasting and gourmet food experiences. 2. Piazza del Duomo The landmark "Elephant Fountain" (a black rock elephant carrying an Egyptian obelisk) is said to suppress volcanoes. Catania Cathedral (which houses the relics of St. Agata), the city's patron saint. 3. Fish Market (La Pescheria) The most popular place in Sicily. Freshly-opened sea urchins, oysters, and live Sicilian red shrimp are processed directly in the restaurant next door. Affordable price! 4. Monastery of San Nicolo One of the largest monasteries in Europe, it is now part of the University of Catania. It combines Baroque and Renaissance styles and has gorgeous interior decoration. It's worth a visit for literary young people. Recommended by a small group of people, if you have more time, you can consider it Teatro Massimo Bellini: Sicily's most beautiful opera house, evening performances from €20. Underground Roman Theater (Anfiteatro Romano): hidden in a residential area, admission is charged. Food Guide Breakfast: Coffee + Brioche con granita (smoothie with sweet bread), the Sicilian way of eating, I recommend Caffè del Duomo. Meal: Trattoria da Zio Tanino: A family restaurant loved by locals, order the Pasta alla Norma (aubergine and tomato pasta). Scirocco: A fried seafood stall next to the fish market, 5€ for a serving of fried small fish with lemon. Dessert: Savia’s cannoli (freshly filled cannoli) are the best in town! This specialty dessert is actually influenced by Arabia. Transportation: Catania has an airport Airport to city center: AMT Alibus The city is easy to get around on foot, and if you’ve had enough fun and want to go to Taormina, you can get there in 1 hour by train! Tips Safety: The old town is safe, but avoid walking alone in remote alleys at night. Season: Spring and fall are the best, and the Feast of Sant’Agata in February is super lively! Volcano hiking: Wear non-slip shoes and a jacket as it is windy on the top of the mountain. Catania is like the fusion of Italian espresso and dessert - bitter (volcano) + sweet (cannoli), the more you taste it, the more addictive it becomes! And it’s super popular!