BED & BREAKFAST .cod S136

Catania is Sicily's second biggest and second most important city. It spreads from the Ionian Sea to the Etna Volcano which is Europe's largest active volcano. The B&B is 28 kms from the volcano. This city was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1693 after which it had to be rebuilt. Today it is home to some of Sicily's most beautiful Baroque buildings. In the Piazza del Duomo, visitors will find the Elephant Fountain, the symbol of the city, built by Vaccarini who was one of the main figures in the reconstruction of the city in the XVIII century. The elephant is sculpted in lava stone and supports an Egyptian obelisk. The Dome, dedicated to St. Agata, the city's patron saint, was commissioned by Count Ruggero in the XI century and was built by Vaccarini after the earthquake. One of Catania's most important examples of its Baroque style is Via dei Crociferi, where wonderful Baroque churches stand next to beautiful noble buildings from the seventeenth century. Vaccarini's masterpiece, the San Giuliano Church, can also be admired on this road. Right in the historical centre we find this B&B on the fourth floor, with lift, of an old building. There are two comfortable double bedrooms with modern décor. The bathroom with shower is shared. Breakfast is served by the owner in the dining room. Apart from admiring the beautiful Baroque architecture this city has to offer, we would also recommend trying out the tasty local food. Thanks to its vicinity to the sea, the local cuisine is based on fish dishes. Especially good delicacies are the seafood salads and the marinated 'maculi' (anchovies from the Ionian Sea with oil and lemon). A special mention also goes to the very popular "Pasta alla Norma" with tomato sauce, fried aubergines, basil and plenty of salted ricotta cheese. The local red and white wines are also worth tasting as well as the local honey, citrus fruit, pistachio nuts, hazelnuts and jams.