Art & Culture in Sicily

Sicily has an incredible past which can be seen in the ruins, monuments and buildings found all over the island. A highlight for many is the ancient Greek ruins – considered by many to be the best examples in Europe. You can also find Roman mosaics, Arab fortresses, Baroque architecture and much more! Art and culture, together with great food and amazing countryside, are some of the most characteristic elements on this wonderful island, that offers so much to all visitors. For all lovers of History of Art, Sicily and its gems are a must-see, filling hearts with joy and beauty.

Archaeology Sites in Sicily

Sicily's incredible past is still visible today with a wonderful collection of archeological parks and impressive ruins. Be sure to visit at least one, , but try to see as many as possible during your holidays: Segesta, Tindari, The Valley of the Temples, Selinunte, and Taormina's theatre.

Valley of the Temples

Made up of the ruins of several extraordinary Greek temples, the Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily's most important ancient sites near Agrigento.

Tindari

Once a Greek town called Tyndaris, Tindari now has a lovely archeology park that can be visited. Great views out to sea as well as fascinating remains of ancient buildings.

Selinunte

Visit Selinunte and marvel at the ancient Acropolis with sea views and the several remains of Greek temples in various states of restoration, all surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Villa Romana del Casale

An ancient Roman villa with some of the best examples of roman mosaics. A must for history lovers, found deep in Sicily's countryside near Piazza Armerina.

Segesta

A wonderful site with one of the best preserved Doric temples in Europe, as well as a fantastic ancient theatre with mesmerising views over the countryside.

Eraclea Minoa

A small archeological park with a charming ruin of a Greek theatre overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Mozia

An island off the west coast of Sicily, with extraordinary remains dating back from the Phoenician rule of the area.

Taormina Theatre

Evocative and unforgettable, the Greek- Roman theatre in Taormina is unmissable. Enjoy wonderful views over Mount Etna and out to sea.

Museums

Discover Sicily's amazing artistic heritage by visiting one of the island's many great museums. From ancient artefacts to contemporary art – you're bound to find something that interests you! Historic palaces and castles, museums and art galleries are just a few things that make this island unique.

Palazzo Abatellis

This Gothic-Catalan palazzo in the historic centre of Palermo now holds the Sicilian Regional Museum with a superb selection of Sicilian art, focusing on the late Medieval and Baroque styles.

Salinas Museum

Set in a beautiful palazzo, this archaeology museum holds a fantastic range of artefacts from Sicily's rich archaeological wealth. The Greek and Punic collection is one of the largest in Italy.

GAM – Gallery of Modern Art

A wide collection of Sicilian art can be found in this lovely palazzo in the historic centre of Palermo. The permanent collection is wonderful, and regular exhibitions always offer something special.

Antonio Pasqualino Puppet Museum

A large space holding a fascinating collection of puppets from Sicily and from other parts of the world. You can see more that 3500 examples from many countries!

Castle Ursino

A 13th century castle, built by Frederick II, the Castle Ursino now regularly holds some excellent art exhibitions.

Paolo Orsi Archaeology Museum

One of the most important archaeology museum in Europe, this museum is enormous and holds a huge collection of treasures found in eastern Sicily.

Pietro Griffo Archaeology Museum

Agrigento's ancient past comes to life in this museum with its exceptional collection, found in the wonderful nearby Valley of the Temples.

Dancing Satyr Museum

The centrepiece of this small museum in Marzara del Vallo is the stunning Dancing Satyr bronze statue. This dynamic statue, dating from the Hellenistic period, is a wonder.

Carretti Siciliani

It’s impossible to forget the sight of the bright and colourful Sicilian carts! So beautiful, and with a rich history, there is an amazing collection at the Terrasini Museum, just outside Palermo.

Baroque Buildings

The Sicilian Baroque is a style that blossomed in the early 18th century. South Sicily, and most notably the Val di Noto, are full of extraordinary examples of this glorious architectural style. Be it a palace, a church or a cathedral, you'll be fascinated by the beauty of these buildings.

Chiesa di San Carlo

A beautiful church in Noto's centre with a striking concave facade. Building started in the early 18th century after the 1693 earthquake.

Palazzo Ducezio

With its beautiful columns and Baroque façade, this palace in Noto is a gorgeous sight to drink in.

Palace of the Elephants

An imposing palazzo in Catania's main square, opposite the cathedral, named after the charming statue in the centre of the piazza.

San Giorgio Duomo

The stunning cathedral set above Ragusa's main piazza is a Baroque treasure, started in 1738 after the devastating earthquake in 1693.

Church of San Francesco

The interior of this church in Mazara del Vallo is a riot of Baroque decoration. Walk inside and be wowed by the intricate decorations and colour.

Palazzo Beneventano

The highlight of this pretty palazzo in Ragusa is undoubtedly the extraordinary balconies with dynamic and spirited grotesque decorations.

Chiesa del Gesù

Also known as Casa Professa, this large church in Palermo offers a stunning Baroque interior to visitors decorated with extraordinary polychrome marbles and reliefs. Truly Baroque!

Important Churches and Monuments

Imposing churches are found all over Sicily, ranging in styles and size. Every town has at least one impressive church, whilst some towns have many examples of ecclesiastic buildings. These buildings are a testament to the island's glorious artistic past, which is still so appreciated by tourists. Don't miss the churches and cathedrals during your holiday in Sicily.

Palermo Cathedral

From the outside, Palermo's cathedral is an incredible mix of styles. Its eclectic look is a beautiful representation of Palermo's fascinating Arab-Norman history.

Cefalù Cathedral

The imposing cathedral in Cefalù is set in a lovely sun-soaked piazza. Inside the Arab-Norman architecture is wonderful, as are the mosaics.

Monreale Cathedral

Monreale's unforgettable cathedral is a recognised by UNESCO for its exceptional mosaics. The whole church shines with intricate golden mosaics. Not to be missed!

Siracusa Cathedral

The Doric columns of the original Temple of Athena are still visible in this Baroque church. The ornate facade is set in Ortigia's stunning main piazza.

Catania Cathedral

Originally dating from the 11th century, Catania’s cathedral dedicated to Sant’Agata is a masterpiece in Baroque architecture, built in local black lava stone giving it a truly Catanese look!

Noto Cathedral

Noto's cathedral is the pinnacle of the Sicilian Baroque style. Set above the main piazza, its honeyed colour is simple beautiful in the evening sun!

Erice Cathedral

With its strikingly simple facade this cathedral is beautiful. Make sure you visit this church set in magical, medieval Erice.

Karte von Sizilien

Need some help to find your way around? Take a look at our map!

Map

Archaeology Sites in Sicily Museums Baroque Buildings Important Churches and Monuments

West Sicily

North Sicily

East Sicily

South Sicily

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