Introduction
It is situated along the Riviera dei Ciclopi together with other towns where tourists do not flock much. Facing the imposing pristine Ionian Sea in a wonderful setting, Acireale is a wondrous place to spend some good holidays. In spite of its baroque beauties, a great bustling market, thermal baths and beauties of many other kinds, Acireale does not receive many tourists throughout the year, though it is located halfway between Catania and Taormina. As other towns on the Ionian Sea, the 17th earthquake badly destructed it, but as the architectural style that spread in Europe at the time was the baroque, the wealthy of town determined to rebuild it and Acireale adopted the baroque air.
What to See and Do
Piazza Duomo is the core of Acireale from where to set off on a discovery of architectural wonders. The cathedral set on the piazza has been restored and has lofty spires guarding the town. Pietro Paolo Vasta was commissioned to create the frescoes in it. Surprisingly enough, wedding receptions are celebrated in it.
To the east of the square is the Basilica dei Santi Pietri e Paolo and its neighbouring town hall, a building that will catch all your attention. Via Ruggero Settimo is a main drag which leads south to the magnificent baroque example Basilica di San Sebastiano. Its altar is a captivating pieces and the dome‘s frescoes were made by Pietro Paolo Vasta.
Another sight not to be missed is the Chiesa de San Domenico, let alone its fish market where you can browse, pick and buy at ease without being disturbed by the hordes of customers that you may find in big towns.
For those adults and children who want to enjoy a good puppet show the Teatro dell’Opera dei Pupi (Via Alessi) is a good option on Sundays at 6 pm and some other days to find out when in town. The theatre also houses a museum.
A typical pampering experience in Acireale is its thermal baths at Terme di Santa Venera
( www.terme-acireale.com).
The town shows its best face and the most festive atmosphere in Lent when carnival permeates every corner with a festive mood.
The Made in Sicily jazz festival held in September gathers Italian and international virtuosos of jazz.
The tourist information office has resourceful personnel. It is set near Piazza Duomo. (tel. 095 89 52 49 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 095 89 52 49 end_of_the_skype_highlighting; Via Romeo 1).
Where to Eat
The sea provides restaurants with the best fresh fish that is purchased at the its local market.
L’Oste Oscuro’s fare includes fish and pasta topped by excellent desserts. From here customers enjoy the sight of the beautiful baroque Basilica di San Sebastiano (tel. 095 763 4001; Piazza Lionardo Vigo 5/6).
For locals La Taverna (Piazza Marconi) turns a good choice located on the fish market from where all its fresh fish comes.
La Casa del Grecale (www.lacasadelgrecale.it) is located in a villa dating back to the 1700s. perfect to view the landscape from its position on a hill. It sits amidst a lovely lemon trees and serves excellent lunch.
How to Get to/away
BY BUS: there are buses connecting Catania and Messina that call at Acireale (Corso Umberto at the public gardens), Aci Trezza and Aci Castello.
