Forza d’Agro is a small medieval fortress village perched on a hill at about 420 meters above the Ionian sea in Sicily.  Forza d’Agro is famous as the filming location of The Godfather movies. Discover the 8 Best Things To Do in Forza d’Agrò in one day!

About Forza d’Agro

• Forza d’Agro is located in the Valle d’Agrò (the valley of Agrò), on the eastern slope of the Peloritani mountains, in the province of Messina in Sicily.
• Forza d’Agrò’s elevation is 420 meters above sea level.
• The village is known as the filming location of several scenes in The Godfather movies.

8 Best Things To Do in Forza d’Agrò

The village of Forza d’Agrò has remained largely untouched by modernization. There are still many traditional Sicilian houses and buildings. The lanes are paved with stone.  Forza d’Agrò is great for walking and not so great for cars.  This quiet village will transport you back in time.

It’s exactly for these reasons that Forza d’Agrò was chosen as the filming location for the Francis Ford Coppola’s Godfather movies.   The village is located close to another town featured in The Godfather movie, Savoca.  Be sure to visit both towns!  Read on to discover the 8 Best Things To Do in Forza d’Agrò in one day!

1. The church of the Santissima Annunziata (Mother church)

The church of the Santissima Annunziata is the mother church (Chiesa Madre) of Forza d’Agrò. The church was originally built in the 15th century and was reconstructed at the beginning of the 18th century.  The church was built in the Baroque style.

This church was used as a filming location for scenes in The Godfather movies.

2. The church of the Santissima Trinità

The church of the Santissima Trinità is also called the Church of Holy Trinity or the Sant’Agostino Church. This church dates back to the 15th century. It’s located in the Piazza della Triade along with the Augustinian Convent.

To reach the church, you have to climb up the sandstone staircase and pass through the fifteenth-century Catalan Gothic arch, The Arco Durazzesco.

The church has a beautiful tower with a pyramid-shaped spire. The interior of the church consists of a single nave and there are a number of artworks in the church.

3. The Augustinian Convent

The Augustinian Convent is located next to the church of the Santissima Trinità in the Piazza della Triade.  The convent was built in the 16th century.

4. The Arco Durazzesco

The Arco Durazzesco is an impressive 15th century Catalan Gothic arch that you have to pass through to get to the church of the Santissima Trinità (the church of the Holy Trinity).  To reach the arch, you climb up a sandstone stairway.

The arch leads onto the Piazza della Triade, where the ancient church of the Holy Trinity and the Augustinian Convent are located.

5. Piazza della Triade

Piazza della Triade is one of the most beautiful spots in Forza d’Agrò. It is in this piazza that the ancient church of the Holy Trinity and the Augustinian Convent are located. It’s also a great panoramic viewpoint. From here you can see Forza d’Agrò, the stunning surrounding areas, and the Bay of Taormina.

6. The Church of San Francesco

The Church of San Francesco was built in the 15th century by the Franciscan Friars Minor. It’s a small and very welcoming village church.

7. The Historic Center of Forza d’Agro

Forza d’Agro has a beautiful historic center largely untouched by modernization. There are many medieval structures, including typical Sicilian houses, churches, palaces, and buildings. The winding lanes are paved with stone. The streets are narrow and unpassable by cars.

8. Panorama

Forza d’Agrò’s exceptional location on a hilltop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area: the Ionian coast, the bay of Giardini-Naxos and even Mount Etna.  You can enjoy astonishing views right from the center of Forza d’Agrò.

The views are also spectacular on the way to the village.  Here is the picture of the view on the way from Savoca to Forza d’Agrò:

Things To Do Near Forza d’Agro:

If you are visiting Forza d’Agro, make sure to pay a visit to Savoca, another town featured in The Godfather movie.   It’s only a short drive by car from Forza d’Agro.

In Savoca, you’ll find iconic Bar Vitelli, the place where Michael Corleone asks Apollonia’s father for his permission to marry his daughter.  Also, the Church of San Nicolò in Savoca is the church where Michael Corleone got married to his Sicilian wife, Apollonia.

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Savoca is a hilltop medieval village perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian coast in Sicily.  Savoca is famous for being the filming location of several scenes of The Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  This includes Bar Vitelli and the church of San Nicolò. Read on to discover The 10 Best Things To Do in Savoca!

About Savoca

• Savoca is located in the province of Messina in Sicily.
• The village is set high above the Ionian sea.  Savoca’s elevation is 300 meters above sea level.
• Savoca is one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages (I borghi più belli d’Italia), an association that includes small Italian towns of historical interest and rich cultural heritage.

10 Best Things To Do in Savoca

Savoca is a medieval town with quite a few historical churches and structures.  Savoca is also world famous for being the filming location of several iconic scenes of The Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  This includes Bar Vitelli where Michael Corleone met his future bride’s father and the church of San Nicolò, where Michael Corleone and Apollonia get married.

The area around Savoca is known for its lush vegetation.  It’s filled with citrus groves, vineyards, and olive groves. This quiet village will take your break away and transport you back in time.  It’s a great village to explore on foot! Discover The 10 Best Things To Do in Savoca!

1. Church of San Nicolò

The church of San Nicolò was originally built in the 13th century and used to be decorated with Byzantine-style frescoes.  The church was substantially rebuilt in the 15th century and then again in the 18th century. This resulted in a big change to the appearance of the church. The church’s current architectural style resembles a fortress.  The current building has a wooden statue of Saint Lucia.

The church of San Nicolò is most famous for being the filming location of The Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  Some of the most iconic scenes set in The Godfather movie, such as the wedding of Michael Corleone and Apollonia, were filmed in this church.

2. Bar Vitelli

Bar Vitelli is located in Palazzo Trimarchi, an 18th-century palace, in Piazza Fossìa, near the Town Hall.

Bar Vitelli is world famous for being the filming location of several scenes of the first Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  In the movie, Michael Corleone fled New York City after starting a mafia war between Italian mob families there. When he arrives to take refuge in Sicily, Michael Corleone falls in love with a Sicilian woman, Apollonia Vitelli.  Bar Vitelli is where Michael Corleone ( Al Pacino) meets the cafe owner, the father of his future wife Apollonia.    The Bar Vitelli is also the place where Michael Corleone asks Apollonia’s father for his daughter’s hand.

3. Palazzo Trimarchi

Palazzo Trimarchi is an 18th century 2-story palace with a basement.  It was built by the Trimarchi family, a wealthy noble Sicilian family. The palace was designed in a Sicilian Neoclassical style.  It’s located in Piazza Fossìa, near the Town Hall.

The ground floor of the palace is currently occupied by Bar Vitelli – a famous bar filmed in The Godfather movie.

4. Steel Sculpture of Francis Ford Coppola

Not far from Bar Vitelli, there is a small square that offers great views of Savoca and of the Church of San Nicolo. In this square, there is a steel sculpture of The Godfather movie director, Francis Ford Coppola. The statue was created by artist Nino Ucchino.

Right next to the sculpture of Francis Ford Coppola is the sculpture of the Talking Donkey.  If you add some coins, you would hear hilarious donkey noises.

Both the Talking Donkey and the sculpture of Francis Ford Coppola are located in a great panoramic spot.   From this viewpoint, you can get an excellent view of the sea, the coastal area, and the church of San Nicolo in the distance.

5. Porta della Città di Savoca – City Gate to Savoca

When the Normans arrived in Sicily, they built a fortified wall around the city of Savoca sometime around the 12th century.  This fortification used to have 2 city gates.  These days only one of the city gates remains standing – Porta della Città di Savoca or City Gate to Savoca.   The gate looks like a pointed arch and it’s made of sandstone.

6. The convent and the church of the Capuchins

The convent and the church of the Capuchins (the Order of Capuchin Friars Minor) are located near the historic center of Savoca.

This convent was built in the 17th century on a vast land donated to the city of Savoca by Antonio Crisafulli (a member of the noble Sicilian family) by deed of the Notary Cesare Petrafitta.  The convent has 2 floors.

Next to the convent is the church of the Capuchin monastery.  The church is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi.   The church houses several important works of art.

The Capuchin convent also houses a crypt with the mummies of the Savoca’s aristocracy.

7. Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta

Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta is the mother church (Chiesa Madre) of Savoca.  The construction of the church started in the 12th century, during the time the Normans were in Sicily.  Initially, the church had a Norman architectural style.

In the 15th century, the church was largely rebuilt and restored by Pietro Trimarchi, an architect from Savoca. The church acquired the Renaissance architectural style.  Finally, between the 16th and 18th century, the bell tower and the rectory were built. The church houses a number of Byzantine frescoes.

8. Church of San Michele

The church of San Michele is a Catholic church in Savoca.  It features Gothic style on the outside and Baroque interior.  The construction of the church started in 1250 and finished in 1420.   The church houses several important artworks of historical value, including frescoes, Baroque altars, and a wooden pulpit.   The church also contains the tombs of several local families.

9. Castle of Pentefur

The ruins of the Castle of Pentefur can be seen on one of the two hills in Savoca.  This medieval castle dates back all the way to the 6th through the 17th century.   The castle has centuries of history, including the Byzantine, Norman and Renaissance periods. The castle was built on top of one of the two hills in Savoca, in a strategic location to defend the city.   Only a few ruins remain of the castle, including parts of the wall and the ancient portals that lead to the Castle of Pentefur.

The site of the castle offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the area!

10. Centro Filarmonico (ex Chiesa dell’Immacolata)

The Church of the Immaculate (now a Philharmonic Center) is located on Via San Nicolò. The church was built in the 17th century by The Order of Conventual Friars Minor. This church used to house the tombs of the wealthy local families, including the Trimarchi.

Today, the building is the Municipal Philharmonic Center.

Other Sights

• The church of Calvary stands on the Calvario hill, offering exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding area: the historic center of Savoca, the Ionian sea, even the Mount Etna.
• Palazzo Salvadore is 17th-century palace is in excellent condition.  It’s located between Via San Michele and Via Chiesa Madre.
• Palazzo Scarcella dates back to the 17th century.  This partially ruined palace is located between Via San Michele and Via Fontana Terra.

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Church of San Nicolò in Savoca was the filming location of some of the most iconic scenes set in The Godfather movie, such as the wedding of Michael Corleone and Apollonia.

Where is the Church of San Nicolò located?

• The Church of San Nicolò is located in a spectacular Savoca village, in southeast Sicily.   The church is perched on a panoramic spot, high above, overlooking the Ionian Sea.   There are breathtaking views all around.
• The church is located just a short walking distance from the equally famous Bar Vitelli which was the setting of other important scenes in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather movie.
• The Church of San Nicolò’s physical address: Via S. Nicolò, 4, 98038 Savoca ME, Italy.

Church of San Nicolò in The Godfather Movie

Even though The Godfather movie is set in Corleone, a town in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, the filming of the movie actually took place in other locations. The town of Corleone looked too modern, so Francis Ford Coppola chose other small Sicilian villages that were still untouched by modernization. The Godfather movie’s Sicily locations included the villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro.

It’s in the Church of San Nicolò in Savoca that Michael Corleone got married to his Sicilian wife, Apollonia. In the movie, Michael Corleone and his new wife are seen walking from the church to the cheers of the guests at the wedding.  This church is clearly visible in the background of the scene.

History of the church

The Church of San Nicolò’s was originally built in the 13th century. The church was substantially rebuilt in the 15th century and then in the 18th century. This resulted in a big change to the appearance of the church. The church’s current architectural style resembles a fortress.

Why Visit the Church of San Nicolò

• The Church of San Nicolò was the filming location for some of the Sicilian wedding scene of Michael Corleone and Apollonia in The Godfather movie.  If you are a fan of the movie, you have to visit this well-preserved church.
• The church is set at the top of the hill, and the views are breathtaking.   You can walk to the church right from the Bar Vitelli, another filming location of The Godfather movie. The scenery as you walk to the church is spectacular.  At the top, you are rewarded with a beautiful view of Savoca, as well as the Ionian coast.
• This peaceful church is exceptionally beautiful, and it looks like a fortress. It’s also has a fascinating interior.

Quick Facts About Savoca

• Savoca is a hilltop medieval village in Sicily.
• The village is perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian coast.  Savoca’s elevation is 300 meters above sea level.
• Savoca is included as one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages (I borghi più belli d’Italia).

Church’s Exterior

The Church of San Nicolò has a fascinating exterior that resembles a fortress.  Even if you’re not a fan of The Godfather movie, you will be impressed with this little church.

Church’s Interior

The Church of San Nicolò has a simple but very inviting interior.

Another Godfather Movie Location – Bar Vitelli

Bar Vitelli was one of the filming locations of the first Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  Bar Vitelli is where Michael Corleone ( Al Pacino) meets the cafe owner, the father of his future wife Apollonia.    The Bar Vitelli is also the place where Michael Corleone asks the permission of Apollonia’s father to marry his daughter.

Bar Vitelli is only a short walking distance from the Church of San Nicolò.

Interesting Sights and Landmarks Nearby

While the Church of San Nicolò is certainly a fascinating landmark to explore, the village of Savoca has a very rich history and is certainly worth the visit.

Other interesting sights near the Church of San Nicolò include Porta della Città di Savoca – the City Gate to Savoca (dating back to the 12th century), the convent and the church of the Capuchins, and the ruins of the Castle of Pentefur.  The Castle of Pentefur has centuries of history, including the Byzantine, Norman and Renaissance periods.

Other historical churches in Savoca include Church of San Michele and Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta (Chiesa Madre – the mother church of Savoca).

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Bar Vitelli is world famous for appearing in The Godfather movie.  The bar is set in a stunning Savoca village, located east of Palermo, in Sicily.

Bar Vitelli’s Location

• Bar Vitelli is set in a stunning hilltop medieval village of Savoca in Sicily. The village is perched high above on the hill overlooking the Ionian Sea.
• Bar Vitelli is housed in an 18th century Palazzo Trimarchi, located in the Piazza Fossia, the town’s main square. The bar features an outdoor vine-covered terrace from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the areas surrounding Savoca.
• Bar Vitelli’s physical address: Piazza Fossia, 7, 98038 Savoca ME, Italy.

Bar Vitelli in The Godfather Movie

Even though The Godfather movie is set in Corleone, a town in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, the filming actually took place in other locations. The town of Corleone looked too modern, so Francis Ford Coppola chose other small Sicilian villages that were still untouched by modernization.  The Godfather‘s Sicily locations included the villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro.

Bar Vitelli was the filming location of several scenes from the first Godfather movie by Francis Ford Coppola.  Michael Corleone fled New York City after starting a mafia war between Italian mob families there. He arrives in Sicily to take refuge.  He falls in love with a Sicilian woman, Apollonia Vitelli.  The Bar Vitelli is where Michael Corleone ( Al Pacino) meets the cafe owner, the father of his future wife Apollonia.    The Bar Vitelli is also the place where Michael Corleone asks Apollonia’s father for his permission to marry his daughter.

Why Visit Bar Vitelli

• First of all, if you are The Godfather movie’s fan, Bar Vitelli IS THE PLACE where several important scenes of the movie were filmed.  This includes the scene where Michael Corleone meets the owner of the bar, the father of his future bride, and also the scene where Michael asks Apollonia’s father’s permission to marry her.
• Second, the bar is set in a stunning location from where you can enjoy great views of the areas surrounding Savoca. What’s surprising is that neither the town of Savoca nor the bar is overrun by tourists.
• Finally, the whole area and the restaurant have a great, serene atmosphere! The bar has excellent food, and it’s a great place to sit back, relax and enjoy the views of Savoca.

Quick Facts About Savoca

• Savoca is a hilltop medieval village perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian coast in Sicily.
• Savoca’s elevation is 300 meters above sea level.
• Savoca is included as one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages (I borghi più belli d’Italia).

Bar Vitelli’s Exterior

• Bar Vitelli is housed in an 18th century Palazzo Trimarchi, located in the Piazza Fossia, the town’s main square, near the Town Hall.
• Palazzo Trimarchi is an 18th century 2-story palace with a basement.  It was built in a Sicilian Neoclassical style.  The palace was built by the Trimarchi family, a wealthy noble Sicilian family.
• The ground floor of the palace is currently occupied by Bar Vitelli – a famous bar filmed in The Godfather movie.

Bar Vitelli’s Interior

Inside the bar, you’ll find The Godfather movie memorabilia.

The food at Bar Vitelli

The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere! The food is delicious, and the Bar Vitelli is a great place to sit back, relax, enjoy the views, food, and wine!

Another Godfather Movie Location – Church of San Nicolò

The Church of San Nicolò was used as a filming location for the Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather movie. It is in this church that Michael Corleone and Apollonia got married. The church is only a short walk from Bar Vitelli.

Interesting Sights and Landmarks Nearby

While the bar is certainly an interesting place to explore, the village of Savoca has a rich historic and cultural heritage and is certainly worth the visit.

• Churches. The notable churches in Savoca include Church of San Nicolò, Church of San Michele, and Church of Santa Maria in Cielo Assunta or Chiesa Madre (the mother church of Savoca).
• Palaces. Savoca is also home to several historical palaces, including Palazzo Salvadore (the 17th-century palace in excellent condition) and Palazzo Scarcella (a 17th-century palace, partially ruined).
• Notable Architecture. Other interesting sights near Bar Vitelli include the City Gate to Savoca (dating back to the 12th century), the ruins of the Castle of Pentefur, the convent and the church of the Capuchins.

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Modica located in southeast Sicily is famous for its unique Sicilian Baroque architecture and locally produced chocolate.  Nestled in the Hyblean mountains, the town is divided into two distinctive parts: Modica Alta and Modica Bassa.  Discover The Best 10 Things To Do in Modica including major landmarks and architectural sights!

About Modica

• Modica is located in the Val di Noto area in the province of Ragusa, in southeast Sicily.
• Modica is divided into two towns: Modica Alta (Upper older Modica) and Modica Bassa (Lower Modica).  The two parts of Modica are connected by a staircase path.
• Modica is known for its spectacular Baroque architecture and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other 7 towns in the Val di Noto in Sicily for its Baroque art.
• Chocolate of Modica is specialty chocolate produced locally in Modica. The chocolate recipe used in Modica was inspired by an ancient Aztec recipe for Xocolatl.

10 Best Things To Do in Modica

Modica is known for its spectacular views, impressive Baroque architecture, locally produced chocolate the Cioccolato di Modica, and steep staircases.   One could spend days exploring this historical town.  However, if you have only one day to visit Modica, below are the Top 10 Things To Do in Modica that you can accomplish in just one day.

1. Cathedral of San Giorgio

Cathedral of San Giorgio is a fine example of the Sicilian Baroque architecture.    From its strategic location, the Cathedral overlooks the whole town of Modica.  The church is known for its impressive staircase of over 250 steps.  The staircase connects Modica Alta and Modica Bassa and leads down to the lower town, Modica Bassa.  At the top of the stairs, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city.

The interior of the church is filled with numerous works of art.

2. Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista

The church of San Giovanni Evangelista is located in the upper Modica Alta.  The church sits at the top of the monumental staircase lined with trees on both sides.

The church is just a short walk away from Pizzo Belvedere (located on Via Pizzo) – a scenic spot with spectacular views of Modica and the surrounding area.

3. Chiesa di S. Teresa d’Avila

Chiesa di S. Teresa d’Avila is located in the central area of Modica Alta – an upper part of town.   The church is a short walking distance from Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista.

4. Church of San Pietro

The Church of San Pietro is a Baroque church in Modica Bassa.   The church sits at the top of an impressive staircase decorated with the statues of the 12 apostles.   The interior of the church is spectacular, filled with frescoes and artworks.

The facade of the church houses the statues of Saint Cataldo, Saint Rosalia, Saint Peter, and Madonna.  The statue of Jesus is at the top.

5. Chiesa del Carmine

Chiesa del Carmine, also called The church of Santa Maria del Carmelo, was built in the Gothic style in the 14th century. It’s one of the few remaining examples of Sicilian Gothic architectural style.

6. Chocolate of Modica

The Cioccolato di Modica is a traditional chocolate of Modica, produced using an ancient recipe.  The chocolate of Modica was inspired by a recipe for Xocolatl from the Aztecs.

The chocolate is manually ground, giving it a unique grain texture.  There are numerous varieties and flavors: raspberry, pineapple, pomegranate, lemon, pistachio, almond, and many more.

7. The Castle of Modica

For centuries, the castle of Modica (Castello dei Conti) was the seat of the political and administrative power of the County of Modica.  The County of Modica was a feudal state in southeastern Sicily from the 13th to the 19th century.

At the top of the castle, you are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views.

8. Garibaldi Theater

The Garibaldi Theater was built in 1857 in neoclassic architectural style.  The magnificent interior is extremely well-designed and decorated with paintings.

9. Pizzo Belvedere

Pizzo Belvedere (located on Via Pizzo) is a scenic spot that offers spectacular views of Modica and the surrounding area.

10. Mercedari Palace

Mercedari Palace was built in the 18th century and is currently a museum in Modica.

Why Visit Modica

Modica is one of the most interesting towns in Sicily.  Included into a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with 7 other towns of the Val di Noto area, Modica has a rich historical and cultural heritage.  The town is home to several fine examples of the Sicilian Baroque architecture.     Modica is also famous for its delicious locally produced chocolate, the Cioccolato di Modica.

The town is known for its picturesque views, impressive architecture, old streets, and steep staircases.  It’s a beautiful town with a great atmosphere and friendly, welcoming people.

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Noto is a spectacular Baroque city in the province of Syracuse in Sicily.  Located at the foot of the Iblean Mountains, Noto is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture.  Discover the 10 Best Things To Do in Noto including the major architectural sights, such as churches and palaces!

About Noto

• Noto is situated in the province of Syracuse in Sicily, Italy.
• Noto, along with 7 other towns in the Val di Noto area, is designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Noto is famous for its rich historical architectural heritage.  Mostly of Noto’s notable buildings were constructed in the 18th century.
• Most of the buildings in Noto were designed in traditional Sicilian Baroque style.  Every building and structure has its own unique and intricate design.  Noto is truly the city of Baroque splendor.
• The architecture in Noto is characterized by typical Baroque curves and flourishes, as well as grotesque figures and intricately designed balconies.
• The facade of some buildings in Noto is built with a tufa stone (a variety of limestone) of sandy color which acquires a golden tone at times.

Beautiful Architecture

Noto is the architectural paradise with one of the most beautiful historic centers in Sicily. Everywhere you look is an architectural gem, whether it’s a fountain, an arch, a church, a palace, or even a staircase or a balcony.

10 Best Things To Do in Noto

Discover the top things to do in Noto including the major architectural sights such as churches and palaces.

1. Noto Cathedral

Noto Cathedral is a fine example of the Sicilian Baroque style.  The cathedral was constructed in the 18th century and is dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra.  A part of the cathedral collapsed in 1996 and has been rebuilt.

The exterior of the cathedral was built with yellow limestone.  The left tower of the church features a bell, while the right tower has a clock.

 

2. Palazzo Ducezio

Palazzo Ducezio is currently a Noto Town Hall.  The palace was built by Vincenzo Sinatra, a famous Sicilian architect, who was a pupil of another Sicilian architect, Rosario Gagliardi.  The building of this palace began in 1746.

3. The Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata

Palazzo Nicolaci is one of the finest examples of the traditional Sicilian Baroque architecture.  It is an 18th-century palace located in the center of Noto and is famous for its balconies decorated in Baroque style.

The balconies feature the sculptures of grimacing creatures, including mermaids, lions, hippogriffs, winged horses, and other mythical creatures.

The palace used to be an urban residence of the Nicolaci family.  The building was designed by Rosario Gagliardi and built with the help of his student Vincenzo Sinatra.

 

4. The church of St. Charles Borromeo

Chiesa di San Carlo Borromeo is a beautiful church in Noto.

A climb the top of the bell tower (Il Campanile di San Carlo) will provide you with spectacular views of Noto, and some of the best views of the Baroque architecture from above.

5. The Church of San Domenico

The church of San Domenico was built in the 18th century, based on the designs of Rosario Gagliardi (one of the leading architects of the Sicilian Baroque style).

6. Chiesa di San Francesco d’Assisi all’Immacolata

Church of San Francesco d’Assisi all’Immacolata was built in the 18th century by architects Rosario Gagliardi and his pupil Vincenzo Sinatra.  The front of the church features an impressive staircase, Baroque columns, and marble statues.   The staircase leads from the church’s entrance to the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the main street in Noto.

 

7. Corso Vittorio Emanuele

The Corso Vittorio Emanuele is the main street in Noto, Sicily.   The most important historical buildings are found along The Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

This beautiful street is lined with stunning Baroque architecture, fountains, staircases leading to churches, and piazzas.  It’s the center of the historical area of Noto, bustling with architectural beauty and life.

As you walk down the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you will see quite a few churches, cute piazzas, fountains, intricate Baroque style facades of historical buildings.

If you are in Noto for a quick visit, this is the street to explore!

8. Church of Santa Chiara

Church of Santa Chiara was built in the 18th century by Sicilian architect Rosario Gagliardi.  It’s a beautifully designed Baroque church with a spectacular outside terrace that offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city of Noto.

9. Palazzo Landolina

Palazzo Landolina was built in the 18th century on the order of the nobleman Francesco Landolina.

10. Church of Santissimo Salvatore

Church of Santissimo Salvatore is one of the most fascinating churches in Noto, Italy.   Its interior is especially impressive, characterized by rich colors. The walls and the ceiling of this church feature some of the most elaborate designs of all churches in Noto.

There is also a bell tower that you can climb to enjoy fantastic panoramic views of Noto.

Best Restaurants in Noto

Ristorante Manna

Manna is an amazing restaurant in Noto, offering the Mediterranean cuisine.  The food is delicious with a beautiful presentation.  An elegant and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is beautifully designed, and the service is impeccable.

I recommend ordering fish croquettes for an appetizer. My favorite dishes are eggplant tortelli (tortelli ripieni melanzane), lamb ragu (busiate ragu d’agnello), and pork fillet (filletto di maialino caponata). For dessert, try Ricotta cheese tartlet (tartelletta di ricotta) and almond semifreddo (semifreddo mandorle).

Ristorante Dammuso

Dammuso is one of the best restaurants in Noto.  It features exceptional local Mediterranean cuisine with lots of seafood.   Great seafood, pasta, and wine!

Where to Stay in Noto

There are 2 options to consider in choosing your hotel in Noto.  You can stay either right in Noto within walking distance to all the attractions, or you can stay further away, in the Sicilian countryside, and make a day trip or two to Noto.

1. Stay in the center of Noto

If you want to be right in the center of Noto for a day or two, within walking distance to all of the major landmarks and sights, there are quite a few hotels to choose from.

2. Stay in the Sicilian countryside

However, the preferred option is to stay outside of Noto, in a resort-like setting close to Noto.   If you prefer to stay in a luscious Sicilian countryside but still be a short car drive away from Noto, then stay at Masseria della Volpe.

Masseria della Volpe is a stunning resort in Sicily, Italy. Located in Val di Noto area of Sicily, this hotel is set in the beautiful Sicilian countryside. The location is strategically close to many historical Sicilian cities, such as Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.

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Castelmola is a stunning hilltop town in Sicily, Italy.  It’s located just a short distance away from Taormina.  Castelmola is worth visiting because of its spectacular mountain top location, panoramic views, great restaurants, and friendly atmosphere.

Why visit Castelmola

Castelmola is a small hilltop village located above Taormina in Messina, a province in Sicily, Italy.  It’s one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.  Castelmola is famous for its panoramic views, winding streets, a castle, historical buildings, great food, and shops with ceramic displays.

Castelmola was originally built to protect Taormina from attacks.  You can observe the remains of the Castello di Mola at the top of the town.

Things To Do in Castelmola

1. Piazza Sant’Antonio

The first thing you see when you step in Piazza Sant’Antonio is a gorgeous mosaic floor made of black and white stone.  Piazza Sant’Antonio is a great place to enjoy beautiful views.  There are also several restaurants around the Piazza.

2. Panoramic views

At many points in Castelmola, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views, including the view of Mount Etna, the Ionian Sea, and Taormina.  The village is perched above the bay of Giardini Naxos.

3. Castello di Mola

Castello di Mola is an old castle – these days there are only a few remains still standing.  It’s a great panoramic viewpoint at the top of the hill to observe the surrounding areas.

4. Main historical landmarks

Castelmola is a small town that offers breathtaking views and a taste of Sicilian culture.  There are also several historical buildings in town, including Church of St. Nicholas of Bari, the Campanile (tower),  the Church of San Girgio, the chapel of Madonna della Scala.

5. Sicilian ceramics

“Teste di moro” (Moor heads) are ornamental vases that Sicily is famous for.

6. Winding streets

This old hilltop town has the most charming narrow winding streets.   Walking through this town will transport you back in time.

7. Walk to Taormina

The charming historical town of Taormina is just a short distance away, underneath Castelmola.  You can take a path down to Taormina right from Castelmola.

8. Mandorla

Castelmola is a great place to taste some almond wine, Vino Alla Mandorla, – a traditional wine from Sicily.

Beautiful town

Castelmola is certainly known for its breathtaking views. It’s also an incredibly cute town with beautiful architecture, cozy streets, great restaurants, and shops. It’s not overcrowded with tourists, and it’s a pleasure just to walk around the village and appreciate the beauty and the uniqueness of this town.

Where to stay

Hotel Villa Sonia is located only steps away from the main plaza of Castelmola.

The hotel offers stunning views of Mount Etna.  The staff is friendly and attentive.   The location is great – close to both Castelmola and Taormina.  The pricing is excellent which makes this hotel a great value!

We arrived late at night at the hotel and received a very friendly welcome.

The breakfast room is spacious with a beautiful open terrace offering great views. The breakfast is a buffet with a great variety of choices.   There is a good selection of cheeses, cold meats, delicious bread, cakes, desserts, rolls, scrambled eggs, sausage, ham, and more!

The hotel is only a 5-minute walk to the town of Castelmola.

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