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Ragusa Travel Guide
Towns and cities in Sicily
One of the most fascinating towns in Sicily, Ragusa has caused many visitors' jaws to drop as they first set eyes on it. Rising majestically from the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, the town enchants with its Baroque architecture, dramatic landscapes, and its UNESCO World Heritage centre.
About the area
Situated on the Eastern side of Sicily, Ragusa was devastated by an earthquake in 1693, giving birth to two distinct districts: Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla. While the former boasts architectural delights and aristocratic elegance, it is the smaller Ragusa Ibla, clinging to the walls of a gorge, that steals the show with its Baroque splendour. Designated as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ragusa's historic centre is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, with 18 of its buildings protected by UNESCO patronage. The best thing to do is just to walk and admire man’s resilience in the face of natural disaster.
Things to do in Ragusa
- Explore Ragusa Ibla: Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Ragusa Ibla. Whether you approach it from Modica to the south or from Ragusa Superiore, the sight of houses, churches and palazzi piled on top of each other, clinging to the walls of the gorge, is really quite breathtaking. Don't miss the panoramic views from the Hyblean Gardens, where you’ll be able to be fully immersed in Ragusa's timeless beauty.
- Visit the Basilica di San Giorgio: The Basilica was built in 1738 by Rosario Gagliardo and lies at the top of some 200 steps. It has an impressive neoclassical dome that was added in 1820.
- Discover Chiesa di Maria delle Scale: The Chiesa di Maria delle Scale (St. Mary of the Steps) lies between Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla. It was not totally destroyed by the 1693 earthquake as can be seen from the Gothic Catalan-style arches in the right aisle. As its name might suggest, the church is reached via 242 steps, though the reward at the top is worth it. If you are a fan of the hit Italian detective series Inspector Montalbano, you may recognise the view from the Church of Maria delle Scale from the panoramic shots of Ragusa Ibla that set the scene for a great deal of the episodes.
- Admire the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista: The Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista in Ragusa Superiore was previously situated under the walls of the medieval castle and rebuilt twice. The version that you will see today was built in 1718 in an archetypal, extravagant Sicilian Baroque style.
- Indulge in Ragusa's Michelin-starred restaurants: The restaurant Duomo is double Michelin-starred and considered one of the very best restaurants in Italy, while La Locanda di Don Serafino has 1 Michelin Star. Restaurant I Banchi can be found in a charming palazzo in Ragusa Ibla and is ran by the head chef of Duomo.
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