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Taormina
perched on a rocky spur at an altitude of
about 200m, it occupies a fabulous position,
overlooking the sea and right opposite Etna
volcano. It has been a popular destination
for travelers since the 18th
century: the mild climate, the splendid
landscape and serene outlook have made
Taormina famous worldwide. The city has
great reminders of an ancient history: the
Greek Theatre still maintains the original
cavea (auditorium) and it continues to be
used for prestigious events such as the
famous Taormina Arte, an International
review Festival of cinema, theatre, ballet
and music, which all take place during the
summer months. The main street possesses two
main entrances (Porta Messina - Porta
Catania) and is characterized by elegant
shops, restaurants and cafés. Along the
street there are: the Chiesa di San
Pancrazio, built on the ruins of a temple
dedicated to Zeus; the lovely square Piazza
IX Aprile, notable for a gracious balcony
overlooking the sea and offering wonderful
views over the bay and across the Mount
Etna; beautiful buildings such as the
Palazzo Corvaja dates from the Arab age. The
Duomo (the Cathedral) is dedicated to Saint
Nicholas of Bari, its simple façade is
ornamented by a Renaissance doorway while
the interior is Gothic. Taormina also offers
natural attractions and beautiful beaches:
the little Mazzarò bay, which hides many
caves and grottoes, the beautiful Isola
Bella, a small island connected to the land
by a thin strip of sand, protected by the
WWF and recently declared Nature Reserve,
and Giardini Naxo,; the first Greek colony
of the island. |