On this private tour of Caltagirone, we'll explore this beautiful Sicilian city that's famous for its ceramic creations and its Baroque and Art Nouveau monuments.
Description
We'll meet at the indicated time at the entrance of Caltagirone's Public Garden, recognized as one of the ten most captivating gardens on the peninsula. This lush expanse is adorned with Art Nouveau elements, including an Arab-style stage and the Belvedere Theater.
Our journey will lead us past the Museo della Ceramica, as we progress along Caltagirone's main street and make our way to its historic heart. Here, the Tondo Vecchio stands, an 18th-century monument now used for open-air performances.
Next, the tour will take us along the San Francesco Bridge, where we'll admire its five arches and typical ceramic vases created by local artists. The footbridge was built in the 17th century as a link between two of the three hills on which the town was built.
Winding through the streets of Caltagirone, we'll revel in the beauty of its Baroque and Art Nouveau churches and palaces, culminating in the Cathedral of San Giuliano. With its commanding 48-meter bell tower, this Art Nouveau-style temple boasts a stunning majolica dome. Inside, you'll find numerous frescoes illustrating Old Testament scenes and ornate Baroque wooden embellishments.
A short distance away is the Piazza del Municipio, encircled by graceful structures like the neoclassical Palazzo dell'Aquila and the former Palazzo Senatorio, now home to the Luigi Sturzo Gallery.
Our final destination will be one of the town's most iconic sites: the renowned Santa Maria del Monte staircase. Constructed in the 17th century, this extraordinary feat links the historic center to the modern section of the city. The staircase, adorned with colorful ceramic tiles across its 142 steps, becomes a central focal point during celebrations like the Infiorata, where it's embellished with flowers, or the Patron Saint festival, when 4,000 candles illuminate it, casting a magical ambiance.
Concluding our private tour of Caltagirone, we'll find ourselves at this emblematic locale, 2 hours after the tour's start.
Advantages of a private tour
Booking a private tour ensures a service tailored to you! You can participate in the activity on the day of the week you prefer and arrange the itinerary according to your needs.
