English
Russian
Dutch
German
Spanish
French
Türkçe
Culture of Taormina. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces
Antique structures located in Taormina are of huge historical value. The oldest building is the Greek Theater (Teatro Greco). It was erected shortly after the founding of the first settlement, in the 3rd century BC. As it was found out by scientists, more than two thousand years ago on the site of the theater there was an impressive limestone mountain, which was literally moved by the locals before the construction began. During the reign of the Roman Empire, the theater was used as a venue for gladiatorial games. Being the second largest theater in Sicily, it can accommodate more than 10,000 spectators at one time.
Taormina is famous for its amazing historic hotels, the atmosphere of which is unique and attractive. One of the most prestigious hotels in the resort is San Domenico Palace occupying a … 
Open
Open
The picturesque resort town of Taormina is one of the oldest on the Sicilian coast. The first mention of the Greek settlement of Tauromenion dates back to the 4th century BC. According to … Open
Open
A true example of the Baroque style is the Church of St. Pancras named after the patron saint of Taormina. Built in the 16th century, it houses many unique frescoes. It is noteworthy that the church was built on the ruins of an ancient temple. The most curious travelers should definitely climb to the top of Mount Tauro and see the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rock (Madonna della Rocca 
). It can be safely called the most unusual religious landmark - the Madonna della Rocca was carved right in the rock, its construction was completed in 1648.
Undoubtedly, the main entertainment of visitors to the picturesque resort is beach recreation. You can also diversify leisure activities by walking, visiting attractive shops and … Open
Open
), whose appearance is an amazing mix of Byzantine, Arabic and Norman styles. Not less attractive is the Palace of the Dukes of Santo Stefano(Palazzo Duca di Santo Stefano ), whose age is more than 600 years. At present, the completely restored palace is used for holding cultural events, and some of its premises are converted into a museum acquainting visitors with the work of the great sculptor Giuseppe Mazzullo. 
City tours, excursions and tickets in Taormina and surroundings
This guide to cultural sights Taormina is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.
Reference information
Map of all churches
Cathedrals and basilicas near Taormina
♥ Basilica Cattedrale di Maria SS. Annunziata, Acireale, 29 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Basilica di S. Sebastiano Martire, Acireale, 29.2 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Basilica di S. Maria Assunta, Randazzo, 30.5 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Concattedrale di S. Maria Assunta, Santa Lucia del Mela, 32 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Basilica di S. Filippo d’Agira, Aci San Filippo, 32.4 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Basilica di S. Giovanni Paolo II, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, 32.7 km from the center. On the map
Photo
♥ Basilica di S. Sebastiano, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, 33.2 km from the center. On the map
Photo
Unique spots in Taormina and near
Etna
From the series “The Most Active Volcanoes in the World”
Check on the map: Distance from Taormina center - 28.8 km.
One of the main distinguishing features of the largest volcano in Europe is presence of many side craters; lava erupts from them every 2-3 months. According to statistics, major eruption occurs every 150 years. Etna has destroyed many nearby villages and killed thousands of people during thousands of years. The slopes of the volcano and its immediate neighborhood currently feature numerous settlements; people consider them comfortable and attractive place to live. …
Read further Distance from Taormina center - 28.8 km.
Teatro Greco Antico di Taormina
From the series “Ancient Amphitheaters and Arenas, That Are Still Operational”
Check on the map: Distance from Taormina center - 0.3 km.
If you stay at one of the spectator places of the ancient theater, you can admire the picturesque panoramic view of the coast and Etna volcano. The amphitheater in Taormina was significantly expanded in the era of ancient Rome. In its arena bloody battles of gladiators were held. Modern travellers will also have an opportunity to touch the culture of ancient times. The ancient arena remains a permanent venue for interesting cultural events. For several years the amphitheater has been used for the international festival of arts "Taormina Arte". …
Read further Distance from Taormina center - 0.3 km.
Photogallery of cultural heritage of Taormina
Landmarks of culture on Taormina map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc
Culture guide to Taormina. Which fascinating sights to visit once you are in Taormina: temples, churches, museums, theaters and castles. Recommendations (with addresses, phone numbers and links) on the places 'must visit' in Taormina. Plan your own city excursion by using this page info!
