Taormina

View from Hotel Villa Belvedere

After a great night's sleep, we were met by our guide Marco took us farther up the hill, to the amphitheater.  Originally carved out of the rock by the Greeks, and then bricked in by the Romans.

Cathar stronghold on the right, Sarasen stronghold on the left

Mosaics

Each seat had an owner; this is a Greek owner

After our tour, we descended the stairs into the heart of the city.  It was Palm Sunday and the center of town was quite busy with visitors. 

Football is religion here

Palms for Palm Sunday

You can just see the stars of David on the building; this is the beginning of the Jewish quarter

 Our last night here, we ate a farewell dinner at Villa Antonio, a beautiful old palazzo.  This is the view from the terrace. 

Stuffed mackerel, caponata, vegetables

Pasta with tomatoes from Pacchino

Stuffed catch of the day

Veal rollatini

 At dinner, we toasted again to this amazing trip, that included great friendships that were made as well as unique experiences. 

Finally seeing the summit of Mt. Etna

Flying out of Catania for Bologna

Ryanair:  last seat, last row, at the window

As we left Sicily, I am convinced it is the next Tuscany; they are ready for tourism, between the well trained guides, the family owned businesses that welcome visitors, and the beautiful hotels, get to Sicily soon.  Their cuisine is a melting pot of cultures, with fresh seafood, and spectacular wines.  Don't wait to come, because you will be behind too many 50 passenger buses to enjoy it.  Andiamo! Ciao for now.