expe
rien
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Sicily
and its
wonders

Noto

THINGS TO DO IN NOTO AS A LOCAL

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.

Entirely rebuilt a few kilometers from the ancient settlement which was razed to the ground after the devastating earthquake of the 17th century, Noto is today a gentle, vibrant and hypnotic city, full of fascinating palaces and churches and a very lively nightlife.

Here are 6 tips for 6 different ways on how to enjoy Noto
as if you were a thoroughbred local.

Tips 1:
Marvel at the uniqueness of Via Nicolaci

If you are looking to have an authentic experience in Noto, why not spend a romantic evening in Via Nicolaci? Take a walk in this magical golden alley and admire the hidden details on the facades of churches and historic buildings. You might even catch a glimpse of the strange creatures peeking out from the elegantly inlaid balconies.

Via Nicolaci is a sloping street that connects the church of San Carlo al Corso to the church of Montevergine. During the day you will appreciate the luxurious buildings at their best and scrutinize all the details, but it is in the evening that this narrow street exudes a magical magnetism. After sunset, the lights of the premises come on and the tables of the restaurants cover it with romance and charm. creatures peeking out from the elegantly inlaid balconies.

However, keep in mind that you may feel watched due to the opulent balconies of the 18th-century Palazzo Nicolaci. There are seven of them, all populated by characters with a restless charm: lions, sphinxes, cherubs, mermaids and winged horses.
Via Nicolaci is also the protagonist of one of the most awaited events in the city, the floral display.

Tips 2:
Watch the city flourish

If, on the other hand, you want to have a colorful experience, you cannot miss the Infiorata. Every May, hundreds of thousands of petals of all colors fill Via Nicolaci, creating a splendid floral carpet with designs and motifs in line with the chosen theme. Local artists use different varieties of flowers, including daisies, roses, carnations and gerberas, all to create a long multicolored mosaic.

Infiorata di Noto

The Infiorata of Noto is not only a breathtaking show full of flowers, but also folklore thanks to the markets, shows and a unique costume parade. The celebrations culminate on the third Sunday of May, but the emotion can already be felt from Thursday evening when the street works begin to take shape.

Watching Noto blossom during the Infiorata is an experience not to be missed.

Tips 3:
Participate in folklore

The feast of San Corrado in Noto is a much awaited event which is celebrated twice a year in honor of the patron saint of the city. Besides the religious significance, it also attracts thousands of tourists fascinated by the ancient rituals performed in the streets of the Baroque city.

The procession is particularly heartfelt and very involving. 50 bearers hold on their shoulders a 16th century silver urn containing the sacred relics of the saint, while hundreds of decorative candles called "cilia" illuminate the path. The procession attracts many devotees, some of whom choose to walk barefoot according to a tradition called "viaggio scausu".

Participating in this festival will give you a strong insight into what it means to be a netino and will make you feel the enthusiasm that envelops the city in these days of devotion and true tradition. Furthermore, every ten years the urn is taken to the Hermitage of San Corrado, a sanctuary located about 5 km from the center of Noto.

Participating in this festival will give you a strong insight into what it means to be a netino and will make you feel the enthusiasm that envelops the city in these days of devotion and true tradition. Furthermore, every ten years the urn is taken to the Hermitage of San Corrado, a sanctuary located about 5 km from the center of Noto.

Tips 4:
Observe the city from the "jealousies"

As you explore Noto, you'll come across magnificent convents that are absolutely an added value to the Baroque charm that envelops the city. During the 18th century, these monasteries played a crucial role in providing shelter for young nobles who were unfit to inherit their family's estate. Walking through the streets and squares of Noto, you will notice some truly exceptional ones. The sophisticated walls of these fascinating places, made with netina limestone, hide stories and secrets that are still hidden behind their wrought iron windows called "jealousies". Those who entered the cloistered life were once relegated to observe the life that took place outside, right from these windows.

One of the most sensational convents is the former convent of the Poor Clares, which is attached to the church of Santa Chiara. This place offers a breathtaking view of the cathedral and the old town. A recommended attraction is the Monastery of SS. Salvatore, protagonist of the film "Storia di una Capinera" by the famous director Franco Zeffirelli. The film is based on a beloved novel by Sicilian author Giovanni Verga, which tells the harrowing story of a young girl forced to become a nun. A must for anyone interested in cultural and historical landmarks.

Tips 5:
Immerse yourself in nature

Vendicari Nature Reserve

Without having to travel thousands of kilometers by car, in a very short time you will be able to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Wildlife Oasis of the Vendicari Nature Reserve. This protected area covers an area of approximately 15,000 hectares and features a wide variety of landscapes, including coves, salt marshes, dunes and pristine beaches.

Experience the beauty of nature by taking a walk or a bike ride along the various paths that wind through the lush juniper and mastic trees. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the herons, storks and pink flamingos, which have now made this area their habitat.

If you decide to go between April and June, you will have the opportunity to observe over two hundred species of migratory birds, which is perfect if bird watching is your favorite activity.

Marvel at the ruins of the 18th-century tuna fishery, ancient salt pans, a 15th-century Saracen tower, and the ancient Greek colony of Eloro.

Cool off with a swim in the clear waters of the reserve before heading to the charming fishing village of Marzamemi. Here you can spend an unforgettable evening in the lively clubs of Piazza Regina Margherita and the picturesque streets that surround it.

@julienzolli11
Tips 6:
Admire the colors of
Piazza del Municipio at sunset

Noto is always beautiful, but takes on an even more enchanting charm during the sunset. The limestone used to build its splendid buildings gives them a unique light and a warm and enveloping tone. A palette that goes from white to yellow to pink. This creates a captivating and harmonious chromatic effect that accentuates the beauty of the architecture and decorations.

The colors of Noto seem to shimmer and reflect like gold, depending on the sunlight and the time of day.

To experience the perfect golden hour, head to the panoramic terrace of the Church of Santa Chiara or the former convent of the Poor Clares. Alternatively, you can enjoy the warm shades of rose gold on the Duomo by sitting on the long staircase.

expe
rien
ces
Sicily
and its
wonders

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,

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 t

Marzamemi is a Sicilian seaside village, which revolves around an ancient tuna fishery built by the Arabs around 1000 AD.