Guide to Sicily’s Excellent UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Italy is a huge cultural, archaeological, and historical treasure chest. It has 50 different places across the country listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which is more than any other country in the world. In Sicily alone, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, there are multiple sites. Contrary to popular belief, it is not just the ancient cathedrals, beaches, and modern villas in Sicily that make the island irresistible to millions of people; tourists who really want to get to know this island gem should explore the following World Heritage Sites.

The Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea

The Aeolian Islands is a group of eight small islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast. The islands owe their shapes to past volcanic activities; at the present there are still two active volcanoes amongst them. The appeal of the Aeolian Islands isn’t due simply to the volcanoes, but more with the strict preservation efforts implemented there. For instance, construction of new buildings is prohibited and the existing houses, unlike some villas in Sicily, cannot be restored in a modern fashion. On the contrary, the houses need to resemble the old architecture and preserve their whitewashed look.

The Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina One of the best-known ancient villas in Sicily is the Villa Romana del Casale; its renown is not because of its grand architecture, but because of what it houses. It is a massive complex containing the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics, and each one is just as intricate and stunning as the next one. The amount of detail that can still be seen in the mosaics (and the sheer number of them) makes this an important stop on any itinerary, in order to marvel at the massive and assorted pieces of art. The Val di Noto

Val di Noto is a geographical area on the island that consists of eight towns, all listed as World Heritage Sites. Apart from showcasing the stunning Baroque architecture, Val di Noto also has a fascinating history. A massive earthquake in 1693 destroyed many structures, and the Spanish rulers were able to innovate the rebuilding of the towns. The appointed architects carried out a pioneering architectural style, constructing churches, houses and villas in Sicily. The result is still evident today, and the eight towns offer an impressive formation. Visitors who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Baroque architecture and art will find great pleasure roaming around the streets of towns in Val di Noto, such as Caltagirone, Catania, and Noto.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villas in Sicily we can help. Our handpicked accommodation offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.