We don’t know much about the ancient polis of Eloro: it was probably a Syracuse’s colony but it is now an important archeological site situated in the eastern coast of the island, about 8 km away from Noto. Eloro is a very strategic point from which is really easy to discover this enchanting area of Sicily. The site is in fact surrounded by six famous baroque villages of Southeast Sicily: Avola, Marzamemi, Noto, Portopalo, Pachino and Rosolini. Six of Sicily’s most beautiful seaside villages and wonderful summer holiday destinations. Choose one of our Villas near Sicily Baroque Towns to discover them all!
Our itinerary starts with Avola and its beautiful old town, nowadays known as Avola Antica, which was completely destroyed during the earthquake of 1693. This nice little village overlooks the sea between Syracuse and Noto and has several beaches, both free and equipped. Main sights of Avola surely are some Liberty monuments and the churches of its city centre, Piazza Umberto, home of the local museum and also one of the largest squares in Sicily. Moreover, in Avola Antica there is one of the biggest Canyons in Europe: Cava Grande del Cassibile with freshwater ponds where it is possible to take a dip.
The seaside village of Marzamemi has Arab origins and in recent years it has become one Italy’s most sought after tourist destinations even because its nightlife is really lively and bustling both in summer and winter. Entertainment, cool restaurants, beautiful sunny beaches, shops and a small port make Marzamemi a charming village for your summer holiday in Sicily.
Among cellars, vineyards and palm trees, Pachino is an important Sicilian agricultural center. Its ancient history can literally be tasted thanks to the excellences that this fertile territory produces like the cherry tomato Pachino and the famous and prestigious Nero d’Avola wine. Don’t miss a taste!
Porto Palo di Capo Passero is Sicily’s southernmost tip. Wet by both the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas, its territory includes the island of Capo Passero and Isola delle Correnti.
The small town of Rosolini rises between Syracuse and Ragusa: don’t forget to take a walk throught the streets of its old town and to visit the old Cava.
Noto was another city affected by the terrible earthquake of 1963 declared a World Heritage Site UNESCO back in 2002. Noto is an authentic architectural jewel known all over the world: its fine buildings of the early 18th century are considered to be among the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque style. From its marvellous Cathedral to the noble palaces, every Noto’s corner offers an astonishing scenario. Its maritime area is enchanting as well thanks to the small port and its free and equipped sandy and rocky shores.
Wonderful beaches, art, entertaniment, great nightlife, delicious food and breathtaking panoramas: it looks like Southeast Sicily is a not to be missed destination for your next summer holiday!
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Top picture: Noto’s Cathedral. Author: Pequod76. Source: Wikipedia
