That’s Taormina

The Arab-Norman Castle of Taormina, a 11th century Fortress, is a striking structure perched on the rocky peak of Monte Tauro at an elevation of 397 meters. Thanks to this elevated position, it is also called the Castle of the Four Panoramas, as from within its walls you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view: from the Ionian coast stretching north to the Strait of Messina and south to the valley of the Alcantara River and the slopes of Mount Etna. In the distance, one can also spot the urban area of Catania to the west, as well as the Peloritani mountain range. The Castle of Taormina is accessed via a scenic staircase carved into the rock, starting from the charming chapel of Madonna della Rocca. The fortress has a trapezoidal shape and features a tower that once served as a lookout post. The outer walls have been preserved to a height of over four meters, while the internal structures have mostly collapsed. Inside, visitors can still find a cistern used for collecting rainwater, an underground corridor for storing provisions and weapons, a fan-shaped staircase leading to the keep, and two fascinating caves to explore. Today, many of the castle’s architectural […]