Travel guide to Sicily
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Catania
Catania is set at the foot of Mount Etna and is on the eastern coast of Sicily. It has a population of 1 million and has a variety of activities for all different types of tourists to take part in. The city dates back as far as 1693 as all earlier buildings were destroyed in the earthquake that year. Part of the city is also a World Heritage Site.
The city of Catania dates back 2700 years and has had rulers of many nationalities. At different stages the Normans, Spanish, Greeks, Arabs and Spanish have taken control and the city prospered as it was a port. There is always the fear of further volcanic eruptions as the most active European volcano has erupted many times and caused a great deal of damage.
One of the most popular historical sites is the Catania cathedral, originally believed to be a defense against the eruptions of Mount Etna. The interior of the cathedral houses the virgin Agata who was mutilated after refusing the advances of Quintian in AD250. Another site to check out is the Roman Amphitheatre. Although nowadays it is not anywhere near as impressive as it would have been back in the 2nd Century it could seat 16,000 spectators and the information about what happened there can still send a chill down your spine. The Museo Civico houses the Biscari archaeological collection and is based in the Castello Ursino. There are painting, sculptures and vases and a large collection of coins from many centuries.
There are numerous places to do your shopping in Catania. Why not purchase some of the traditional pottery, wine or papyrus to take back home with you? Aside from the traditional stores, Catania is also known for its food and craft markets which can be enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
Driving around Catania is not something that many people will forget and is still one of the best ways to get around. Car hire in Catania is popular and many visitors hire before they arrive by going to www.anycarhire.com and getting their choice of car at a good price. There will be companies to use once you arrive but this way it is all sorted out before you start the holiday.
