The History Of Taormina Guide

Taormina doesn't qualify as a finest concealed or one of those elusive off the beaten track vacation finds. However it's popular for great reason, and you'll forgive the Sicilian resort town for the throng of travelers from the moment you show up.

You can see why everyone pays a visit. For starters, there's the glorious vista that sweeps below historical hillside buildings to picturesque beaches, reached by rocky paths or the town's funicular train. The views out to sea take in the beautiful bay of Isola Bella and the eponymous island itself, now a nature reserve and popular with bird watchers and sunbathers alike. The omnipresent Mount Etna smouldering away in the distance makes a dramatic contrast to the tranquil sea views - and an inescapable discussion piece as you sip a drink and look in wonder from among the picturesque (if costly) terrace bars.

You inevitably have to discover all the hair raising realities about previous eruptions and the brave feats utilized to conserve neighborhoods and stem the lava circulation (military helicopters dropping giant concrete breeze blocks into the raging volcano to try and tame Etna is simply among the tales that sticks in my mind). And don't stress, Taormina is a comforting 60kms or so from Etna - close enough to visit but a comfy range away, so you can sleep comfortably in the evening (In reality, while Etna is an active volcano, it's viewed as an occasionally devastating monster instead of a daily danger to the island).

If you can take yourself far from the views, the Sicilian cuisine holds another reward in store. While there are a lot of grand dishes to delight in, it is the simpler, more find out about this rustic, food that truly whets our appetites. Fresh grilled fish and salad, spaghetti aglio e olio, or a plate of linguini al limone - appeared to complement the setting to excellence (just go simple on the lemons in the type of the well known Italian liquor 'Limoncello' - or the view might all of a sudden turn a bit fuzzy).

Another must-experience is Taormina's historic Greek amphitheatre, Teatro Greco, which likewise boasts fantastic views of Etna and the coast. Everyone from gladiators to latter-day Hollywood legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton have decorated the theatre, while it's also house to Taormina's annual arts celebration, Taormina Arte.

However the real stars of Taormina are the Italians when they dress their best and take a magnificent night walk around town as part of the routine called La Passeggiata. It's elegant affair and a sight to witness in Taormina, underlining the town's chic and upmarket feel. Experiencing La Passeggiata likewise confirmed my sensation of being a little shabbily dressed for such a celebration (yes you can find us tourists a mile off). Still, if I lived in a town as beautiful and stylish as Taormina, I believe I 'd wish to dress the part, too.