On the east side of Sicily, Catania is an old port city. It is at the base of Mount Etna, which is Europe’s tallest active volcano. Because of its rich history, culture, and design, Catania has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has some of the best Baroque buildings in Italy.
The Piazza Duomo is the city’s baroque pride and home to several must-see buildings. Some of these are the Duomo di Catania, the Palazzo dei Chierici from the 18th century, and the Palazzo degli Elefanti, which is now the town hall. This is the Elephant Fountain in the middle of the square. It has the city’s symbol, a small elephant on which the column stands.
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The Etna volcano is without a doubt the most recognizable thing about the city. Via Etna, which goes from Piazza Duomo to the base of a volcanic hill, is one draw. Along these, you can see beautiful churches and castles with dramatic views. It is one of the liveliest streets in Catania, and you will walk through it. The whole area around Mount Etna is a national park, and many trails go up and down the mountain. You can walk or climb around the hill to get to the top, where you can see Catania and the Ionian Sea in a way that you will never forget.
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Ursino Castle was built in the 1300s and withstood an earthquake in 1693. A few years earlier, a volcano erupted and filled the moats with lava. It was the home of the Aragonese family and later a well-known prison.This is where the Catania Museum is now.