Catania: Top 15 attractions in the Italian city

Piazza del Duomo and the Elephant Statue

Cathedral Square is the beating heart of the historic center of Catania and its main square. Located at the intersection of Etnea, Vittorio Emanuele II, and Garibaldi streets, it is a place where art, culture, and social life intersect.

Here you will find one of the city's most popular fountains,, in the form of a giant animal. The elephant is the main symbol of the city, even appearing on Catania's coat of arms. The figure of this animal, which is part of the monument in Cathedral Square, is made of solidified black lava. On its back stands an Egyptian obelisk with the symbols of the patron saint Agatha: a lily, a cross, and a palm branch. The fountain's sculptural ensemble was created in the 18th century.

Cathedral of Saint Agatha

Saint Agatha is the patron saint of Catania. The city's main shrine, built in the 11th century, is named in her honor.

Legend has it that around the 3rd century, a girl named Agatha lived here, renowned throughout the region for her beauty. She was one of the first to convert to Christianity, but for this she suffered terrible torment. The city's ruler desired her and ordered her to renounce her faith and become his wife. But the proud beauty refused. She was thrown into prison and tortured.

After Agatha's death, a terrible earthquake struck the city, killing her tormentors. The girl's belongings began to protect Catania: the lava from the volcano did not reach the places where her scarf or shoe had been lying. Since then, the locals have respected Saint Agatha and believe that she protects the city from misfortune.

Biscari Palace

This is one of the most important landmarks of Sicilian Baroque. Its halls and facade with rich plastic reliefs are an indispensable step towards understanding the art and culture of eastern Sicily.

The private palace was built after the earthquake of 1693. The facade of the building features seven magnificent bas-reliefs representing allegories of abundance, prosperity, fertility, and wisdom.

Today, it houses a clinic, an art gallery, and various halls where the luxurious interiors of past eras have been preserved. The highlight of the palace is the Rococo ballroom. Designed as a case for a guitar, the special balcony of the central dome was used to accommodate the orchestra. The walls are decorated with mirrors, stucco moldings, and frescoes.

Diocesan Museum

The Diocesan Museum's exhibitions feature a large number of valuable Christian relics.

The exhibits include clothing, sculptures, and paintings. The atmosphere of the museum is truly unique: even the furniture here has a history dating back centuries. The restored building of the Diocesan Museum, built in 1965, and its numerous decorations deserve close attention.

If you are interested in history and architecture, you should definitely visit this magnificent building.

Massimo Bellini Theater

Italy has long been considered the main center of opera art. So, coming here and not going to the opera is considered a real tourist crime. The idea of creating Catania's own opera stage came to the authorities as early as the beginning of the 19th century. But construction work did not begin until 1890.

The first opera performed here was Norma. The theater building is designed in the Baroque style. The main foyer features a statue of Bellini, and the ceiling in the main hall is painted with scenes from the maestro's most famous works.

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Ursino Castle

Sicily has several interesting castles that remind us of the periods of conquest when the island passed from one ruler to another.

Ursino Castle was built in the 12th century by Emperor Frederick II, then King of the Kingdom of Sicily. The building is still in excellent condition—all four towers and walls are intact and have no visible damage. In addition, you will find the remains of old outer walls near the castle.

You can take a walk here and take some picturesque selfies, after which you should definitely visit the city museum, located right on the castle grounds.

Mount Etna

The city of Catania is actually located in the shadow of the huge Mount Etna, and this active stratovolcano is one of Sicily's main attractions.

Etna is 3,329 meters high and is currently the highest active volcano in Europe. The previous eruption occurred in 2015, and more recently, in 2024, the mountain began to wake up again.

Because of this, the hiking trails to the summit and the surrounding area are closed to visitors. However, when you come to Catania, you can't deny yourself the pleasure of at least admiring Mount Etna and seeing its crater with your own eyes.

Garibaldi Gate

Before the earthquake of 1693, Catania had 10 city gates that were part of the fortified walls surrounding the entire city. These fortifications were built in the 16th and 17th centuries by order of Charles V, King of Sicily. All 10 gates were destroyed during the disaster at the end of the 17th century and are now only of archaeological interest.

Catania has an unusual triumphal arch — the Garibaldi Gate. It was built in 1768 in honor of the wedding of Ferdinand I, King of the Two Sicilies, and his wife Maria Carolina. The celebration is long gone, but the spectacular black and white gate still adorns the city and has long been a favorite photo spot for travelers. A special decorative effect is achieved through the use of striped masonry alternating between white limestone and black lava stones. The gate is decorated with statues glorifying the king's military victories.

Fish Market

After visiting the city's main cultural and historical attractions, be sure to visit the fish market in Catania. This place is ideal for fully immersing yourself in the Sicilian spirit.

Here you will find all the riches of the Mediterranean Sea – sharks, mussels, lobsters, shrimp, starfish, and sea urchins. The spectacle of the stalls is complemented by the lively chatter and animated gestures of the local traders – you are guaranteed a sea of vivid impressions.

Bonato Chapel

The Bonato Chapel, or Salvatello, is one of the few examples of Sicilian architecture from the Byzantine era that has survived to this day. The exact date of construction is unknown – the chapel was built between the 6th and 9th centuries AD.

The layout of the single-domed chapel with three apses is that of a Greek cross. Inside, medieval frescoes dating back to the 15th century have been preserved. Miraculously, the chapel was not damaged during the devastating earthquake of 1993, which damaged many historic buildings in Catania.

Today, the Bonajuto Chapel is very popular with tourists and also hosts a variety of cultural events.

Toy Museum

Catania also has some rather unusual attractions, such as the Toy Museum, located in the city center, not far from the main square.

The complex began operating in 2002. The exhibitions feature toys of various types and sizes collected from all over Sicily. But don't be mistaken in thinking that this place will only be interesting for children.

Ancient Theater and Odeon

In the heart of the historic center of Catania, a few minutes' walk from each other, are the Greco-Roman Theater and the Odeon.

The former was built in the 2nd century AD alongside an existing structure from Greek times. Its marble was used in the construction of the Cathedral of Saint Agatha. Parts of the theater were severely damaged by eruptions and earthquakes.

The Odeon is a semicircular structure where dance performances and concerts were held during the Roman Empire. Nowadays, shows are held here every weekend.

Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena

One of the most impressive historical buildings in Catania. This huge Benedictine monastery complex began to take shape in the 16th century, and after the devastating earthquake of 1693, it was significantly rebuilt and expanded. The monastery served not only as a place of residence for monks, but also as a major spiritual and educational center. To this day, it remains one of the most iconic buildings that can be visited in Catania.

It is not surprising that this remarkable architectural monument is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Villa Bellini Park and Masters Park

Villa Bellini Park and Masters Park are located in the city center, west of Carlo Alberto Square. These are excellent places to relax and commune with nature.

In the eastern part of the park are the Bellini Gardens with picturesque fountains, flower beds, and cozy gazebos scattered among many exotic trees and plants. In the Park of the Masters, you will have the opportunity to stroll along quiet walking paths surrounded by picturesque woods.

San Giovanni Li Cuti Beach

This beach is a true natural phenomenon, as its shore is covered with volcanic sand and ash. It is a great place to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In the northern part of the beach, there is a small harbor with many old wooden fishing boats that still serve the local residents faithfully. Behind the harbor, you can find several cozy bars and restaurants. The beach has sections with wooden decking and sun loungers so you can relax, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the beauty of the volcanic beach.