About Catania and the Etna Region
Catania is the island's second largest city. Destroyed by the great earthquake of 1693 the city was rebuilt in the baroque style of the day, a fine example being Piazza del Duomo - site of the ancient Roman baths. The main shopping street Via Etnea is an amazing 2 miles long and famous for its smart shops, restaurants and cafes.
Catania has a long stretch of coastline boasting fine sandy beaches.
Mount Etna is an awe-inspiring sight and one of the world's most active volcanos. It lies on the East side of the island between the city of Catania and the resort of Taormina. It is the highest volcano in Europe and is constantly changing shape as it regularly vents and erupts. The mountain's fertile lower slopes are host to the most varied vegetation on the island including palm trees, prickly pears and agaves along with an abundance of citrus and olive trees. The area is also famous for producing first-class wines.
Among the small villages clinging to the foothills of the mountain and well worth visiting are Zafferana Etnea, Randazzo and the gorge of Alcantara.