Many have heard of the unique beauty of Noto, the undisputed pearl of the Sicilian Baroque, but few know that, before the reconstruction of the city, there was another Noto. What we know now is Noto rebuilt in the 18th century after the terrible earthquake of 1693, but what was it like before? It is described as the Pompeii of Sicily. Rubble, rocks and ruins can occasionally be found in the deep undergrowth that has long since taken over and covered this atmospheric lost city.
The most representative city of Sicilian Baroque can't wait to leave you enchanted. It is difficult to resist the magic that surrounds this splendid town in south-eastern Sicily, which seems almost immersed in gold. The effect is due to the material used for the buildings erected after the 1693 earthquake, a local stone with surprising shades of gold and rosé. The city of Noto is the emblematic example of the highest degree of theatricality in south-eastern Sicily. Together with the other late Baroque cities of the Val di Noto (Caltagirone, Ragusa, Modica, Palazzolo, Scicli), it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.
Among the most fascinating destinations in Sicily, one cannot fail to mention the lively Marzamemi. This delightful seaside village seems made for wandering down time-worn cobbled alleyways, feasting on typical dishes and local wine and finally people-watching in the picturesque central square of the village.