Taormina, fire and water.
Nestled high on Sicily’s east coast, Taormina is a city steeped in history, natural beauty and Mediterranean culture.
Over the course of its history, Taormina has witnessed the passage of many civilizations, all of which have left their mark on its cobbled streets and majestic monuments. Founded in the 4th century BC by the Siculi, an ancient island tribe, Taormina soon attracted the attention of the Greeks, who occupied it and renamed it Tauromenium. Tauromenium was an integral part of the kingdom of Syracuse until the death of Hieron. It then came under Roman rule when the whole of Sicily became a Roman province.
The Greeks chose this strategic site for its panoramic position on the Ionian Sea and its proximity to the Etna volcano, which dominates the horizon. Under Roman rule, Taormina flourished as a seaside resort for the Roman elite, attracted by its open-air theaters, thermal baths and breathtaking views. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Taormina was home to artists such as Von Gloeden, Goethe, Geleng and later Lawrence, Leadbetter, Laxness and Roger Peyrefitte.
Taormina and Mount Etna.
Situated on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina enjoys a privileged position with spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea. But it’s Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, that has shaped Taormina’s history and landscape. Frequent volcanic eruptions have enriched the region’s fertile soil, fostering flourishing agriculture and providing valuable construction materials for local buildings. Etna and its eruptive activity are a constant presence and preoccupation. Etna is a very active volcano, just like its neighbors in the Lipari Islands, such as Stromboli. It arouses legitimate fears among Taormina’s inhabitants. Volcanic eruptions, although often predictable, can be devastating, causing property damage and endangering the lives of residents. Lava flows, ash emissions and earthquakes associated with volcanic eruptions are constant threats. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find piles of black volcanic ash deposited in the middle of alleyways after the last eruption, and swept up by local residents.
Natural beauty and links with the sea.
Taormina is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors are captivated by its steep cliffs, lush gardens and colorful sandy beaches. One of Taormina’s most emblematic sites is undoubtedly its ancient theater. Nestled on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, this 3rd-century BC Greek theater is one of the largest and best-preserved in Sicily. With its majestic stage, horseshoe-shaped tiers and remarkable acoustics, Taormina’s ancient theater is the ideal place to relive the grandeur of antiquity for theatrical performances, concerts and festivals.
Not far from the theater stands another of Taormina’s landmarks: the Palazzo Corvaja. This medieval palace, dating from the 10th century, is a remarkable example of Arab-Norman architecture, with its elegant arcades, mullioned windows and decorative elements typical of the period. Today, Palazzo Corvaja houses the Museum of Sicily, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the region’s history and culture.
Strolling through Taormina’s narrow, winding streets, you’ll also discover other architectural treasures, such as the Porta Catania, an imposing 15th-century gateway, and the Porta Messina, built at the same time to protect the city from enemy invasions.
Finally, it’s impossible to talk about Taormina’s monuments without mentioning the splendid Church of San Giuseppe. Built in the 17th century in a flamboyant Baroque style, the church’s richly decorated facade, beautifully preserved frescoes and altars adorned with marble and stucco, make it a real eye-catcher.
The Mediterranean Sea plays a central role in the lives of Taormina’s inhabitants, both for its tourist appeal and its economic importance. Fishing remains an important traditional activity, providing fresh and delicious produce. Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its diversity and intense flavours, and Taormina is no exception. The quality of the soil and the amount of sunshine mean that Sicily and Taormina offer a wide variety of sought-after ingredients, such as pistachios, capers, citrus fruits, lemons and bergamots, not to mention a plant emblematic of beauty whose essences have unique properties: the Helichrysum with its small yellow flowers.
The many local culinary specialties include arancini, delicious fried rice balls stuffed with various ingredients such as meat, cheese or vegetables. Pasta alla norma, served with eggplant, fresh tomatoes and ricotta cheese, is an emblematic dish of the region, as is pasta with capers, olives and anchovies, a real treat for the taste buds. Fresh seafood, such as grilled sardines and fried calamari, is also a staple of Taorminese cuisine when served with caponata. In the 18th century, caponata was eaten as a single dish accompanied by bread. Originally prepared with fish, it was gradually replaced by the less expensive eggplant. Caponata is usually associated with ratatouille, but ratatouille is not vinegar-based and includes zucchini among its ingredients.
Taormina, with its rich history, picturesque landscape and delicious cuisine, is both a historic and romantic Mediterranean destination. If we add the well-being of the climate and its delicious typical cuisine, we can understand why Taormina is a little Sicilian paradise.
Taormina (Italy) – January 2014
