Description
Taormina is located in the province of Messina, north-east of Sicily, at about 206 meters above sea level. It was one of the main tourist destinations in Europe in the 19th century, and served as a source of inspiration for numerous poets and writers who have written about its beauty. Among the attractions of greatest historical interest are the Ancient Theatre, the Cathedral of San Nicola, the Villa Comunale and the Palazzo Corvaja.
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Cathedral of San Nicola
The current Duomo stands on the remains of a previous medieval religious structure dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari, which in turn was built on an older pagan place of worship. The Cathedral dates back to the 13th century, and displays different architectural styles.
Corvaja Palace
The core of Palazzo Corvaja, a defensive tower, was erected in the 11th century during the period of Arab domination. The structure was then enlarged two centuries later, with the addition of the so-called "Hall of the Master of the Executioner". In the 15th century the building housed the Sicilian Parliament.
Isola Bella
Isola Bella - together with the municipality of Taormina - is a stunning island which was once owned by English conservationist Florence Trevelyan in the late 19th and early 20th century. Since then it has been under various ownership until it was auctioned in 1990, when it was bought by the Region of Sicily.
Teatro Antico di Taormina
This Greek/Roman Theatre, dating back at least to the 3rd century BC, is undoubtedly the best preserved historical monument of Taormina. It is the second largest theatre of its kind in Sicily, second only to the Greek Theatre of Syracuse.
Villa Comunale
The Villa Comunale boasts some impressive gardens which were commissioned by Florence Trevelyan, an English conservationist who lived in Taormina from the late nineteenth century until her death. The property has belonged to the municipality since 1922.