The city has a history dating back 2700 years, dominated by several different cultures (Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, etc.) and was a rich commercial centre, mainly due to its port. Again, since the 70's, the city economy is growing as the urban area and the suburbs, making Catania a large metropolitan centre, mainly between the volcano and the sea. Today, even if you can find there most of the biggest commercial centers in Europe (especially Etnapolis); the old 17th century downtown area is still the center of the day-to-day life.
Catania is situated under the biggest active volcano in Europe and has been destroyed many times in the past. As a result, Catania is a city where you can find a great variety of landscape and architecture, a lot of dirty buildings and also a lot of abandoned houses, especially in the mountains. However, since the city is a World Heritage Site, a lot of renovations have been made.
Today, you will feel in Catania a mix of nostalgia and "joie de vivre", especially at night or during festivals.
To truly grasp the essence of Catania is to unravel the threads of Sicilian history, culture, and natural wonders woven into its fabric. As you navigate its streets, the resilient spirit of a city shaped by eruptions of Mount Etna becomes apparent. The Baroque architecture, notably the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, narrates tales of a bygone era.
Dive into La Pescheria, the pulsating fish market, and absorb the lively spectacle of Sicilian daily life. Street food, a cherished tradition, offers a taste of the island's culinary prowess, with arancini and cannoli leading the way.
The omnipresent Mount Etna, a stoic guardian, watches over Catania. Its influence extends beyond the horizon, connecting the city's present to the geological forces that molded its past. Catania's cultural landmarks, from theaters to ancient amphitheaters, echo with the resonance of Sicily's artistic legacy.
Catania is not merely a destination; it's an exploration of resilience, a celebration of flavors, and a communion with the elements. Embrace the unique Sicilian charm as you unravel the layers of Catania, a city where understanding is as much about feeling as it is about knowing.
