What to see in Catania's historic centre
Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its baroque centre, is the closest city to Magma 610: Piazza del Duomo with the Elephant Fountain, via Etnea running through the heart of the city, and the historic Pescheria fish market tell the story of a lively city built — quite literally — from Etna's lava stone.
Other must-see stops include the Teatro Massimo Bellini, the remains of the Roman amphitheatre tucked among the city's buildings, and Castello Ursino, which today houses the civic museum overlooking Piazza Federico di Svevia.
Baroque Catania: architecture and history
After the devastating 1693 earthquake, Catania was rebuilt in late-baroque style, using the same black lava stone that still characterises the historic centre's facades today, contrasting with the white limestone used for decorations and details. This style, shared with other towns in the Val di Noto, is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking through the centre, you can easily spot the typical elements of Catanese baroque: balconies with carved corbels, monumental portals, and the characteristic combination of black lava and white limestone that gives the city an instantly recognisable architectural character, distinct from any other Sicilian historic centre.
How to get there and when to visit
Catania's centre is about a 20-25 minute drive from Pedara. We recommend an early morning visit, both to experience the Pescheria market at its busiest and to enjoy the main squares of the historic centre before the tour groups arrive.
Catania and your stay at Magma 610
Magma 610's proximity to Catania lets you alternate days in the city with hikes on Etna or trips to the coast, without having to choose between sea, volcano and culture: in about twenty minutes you go from the quiet of Pedara to the city's baroque centre.