When you decide to make a trip to eastern Sicily, the city of Noto is definitely a must-see: called “stone garden” by the artist Cesare Brandi and “Sicilian capital of the baroque”, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
After the devastating earthquake of 1693, the city of Noto was completely rebuilt; the new part was erected downstream, on the site of the previous inhabited center, called ancient Noto. For the reconstruction, the baroque style was chosen.
Anyone visiting the city should definitely take paper and pen and write down some characteristic places not to be missed; here are the best!
Cathedral of Saint Nicholas
The Cathedral of San Nicolò is one of the undisputed symbols of the baroque of Val di Noto; it dates back to the eighteenth century, when the facade and its two bell towers were built, Together with a series of columns arranged on the sides of the side entrances and near the large entrance portal.
On the top of the facade is a central window bounded by two pairs of Corinthian columns, while the bell towers are in a vivid purple color that contrasts with the gold color of the cathedral. The whole is amplified by the majestic eighteenth-century staircase that connects the Cathedral with Palazzo Ducezio, current seat of the Town Hall.
Foto : Unsplash
Palazzo Ducezio
Seat of the Minicipio, Palazzo Ducezio is the heart of the city of Noto: it was built between the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in homage to the condottiero Ducezio, who opposed the Greek domination. Inside there is a beautiful hall of representation, main attraction, accompanied by a frescoed roof with some iconic scenes lived by the protagonist.
Hermitage of S. Corrado Outside the walls
The Hermitage of S. Corrado Fuori le Mura is dedicated to San Corrado Confalonieri da Piacenza, that is the patron saint of the city. His cult is very felt among the citizens, who go to the place despite being outside the town, where the Saint lived in hermit between 1322 and 1351.
The hermitage includes some caves where San Corrado and his confreres gathered in prayer; today, a very charming sanctuary erected in the nineteenth century preserves its footprints.
Nicolaci Palace of the Princes of Villadorata
Built in the early 18th century in baroque style, the Nicolaci Palace of the Princes of Villadorata boasts 90 rooms; this is because it was born as a noble urban residence of the Nicolaci family. The palace has several balconies and is enclosed by curved railings, which have decorations depicting sirens, hippogriffs, sphinxes and winged horses, with a purely exotic style.
An area of the building currently houses the Municipal Library, founded in 1817 by the City Hall; today it is possible to admire 9 halls on the noble floors, still furnished with nineteenth-century furniture.
Agliastrello district
Although many noble families lived in Noto, it is also true that there was never a lack of “ordinary” people. An example is given by the Agliastrello district, known for its popular workers: here the architectural style changes, as well as the atmosphere, with small houses all close to each other alternate to large courtyards. It is not the so-called “artistic and chic” known, but it is a way to get closer to the most popular and folkloristic spirit of the place.
Civic Museum of Noto
The Civic Museum of Noto is located in the Villa Landolina Park and is rich in historical and archaeological evidence. The venue itself is very modern: it was inaugurated in 1988, it consists of 2 levels and the exhibitions are divided into 4 sections. The most fascinating is the archaeological one, which proposes relics reemerged during the excavations of the ancient site of Noto and the ancient Greek city of Eloro. Not to be missed, then the Contemporary Art Gallery.
Church of San Carlo
Another example of baroque style, the Church of San Carlo is composed internally by 3 naves with a marble altar in the center. It is possible to visit the bell tower, provided that you do not have problems in climbing the characteristic spiral staircase leading to the terrace. From here you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Cathedral, simply not to be missed at sunset.
Porta Reale
Symbol of the entrance to the city, Porta Reale is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Its construction dates back to 1838, when the news of the arrival of Ferdinand II of Bourbon, king of his Sicilies, arrived. He was also dedicated a statue that, however, is currently known as a monument to the fallen.
City of Noto Antica
As mentioned, the old town of Noto is known as the City of Noto Antica. This place, to visit in religious silence, are still preserved the remains of some great structures, including the castle and the Church of Santa Maria della Provvidenza, which has remained intact.
Vendicari Nature Reserve
Finally, for those who love nature, it is recommended to take a trip to the Vendicari Natural Reserve: this is a stretch of unspoiled coast, not far from Noto. Through the numerous signs is very easy to access, then go through the various paths that lead to beaches and ponds.
Inside, in addition to meeting numerous protected species, you can also visit the ruins of Torre Sveva, the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Eloro and the Antica Tonnata, in activity until 1945. Not to be missed, then, the Calamosche beach, where you can swim and sunbathe.
Copertina : unsplash