Located on Sicily's east coast, this Baroque town has seven thermal springs and hosts one of Italy's oldest carnivals, with flower-covered floats and masked parades since 1594.
Located 7 miles northeast of Catania, Acireale sits between Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea in eastern Sicily. You'll find grand baroque churches like the Basilica of San Sebastiano, centuries-old thermal baths with sulfur springs, and the protected cliffs of La Timpa nature reserve. During carnival season, the streets fill with elaborate papier-mâché floats and flower-covered carriages.
Exploring Piazza Duomo
The main square is the center of Acireale's old town, where you'll see the 17th-century Cathedral and the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Inside the Cathedral, look for the marble sundial created by Danish astronomer Peters, with twelve zodiac signs laid into the transept floor. Around the square, you'll spot the City Hall's wrought iron balconies and the ornate Palazzo Modò.
Baroque Religious Architecture
The Basilica of San Sebastiano's facade includes detailed statues along its balustrade, while its interior walls display frescoes by local artist Pietro Paolo Vasta. The Neo-Gothic St. Peter's Basilica stands nearby, and the 17th-century Acireale Cathedral incorporates architectural elements from different periods.
Natural Areas and Views
From Villa Belvedere park, you can see across the Ionian Sea, with statues of Acis and Galatea decorating the grounds. Walk through La Timpa nature reserve's coastal paths to see volcanic cliffs dropping into the sea, Mediterranean plants, and views of both the coastline and Mount Etna.
The Carnival Tradition
Before Lent, papier-mâché floats and flower-covered carriages move through Corso Umberto and Corso Italia. Street performers act out satirical scenes, local bands play throughout the day, and puppet theaters perform Sicilian folk tales. Additional carnival events happen during spring and summer.
Local Food and Specialties
Farmers in the area grow Etna Lemons (I.G.P.), which local chefs use in dishes and drinks. Try rice zeppole with honey (crispelle di San Giuseppe) and cannoli filled with chocolate, white cream, or ricotta. The area's unique kohlrabi, called "u trunzu," grows only around Acireale and has received recognition from the Slow Food movement.
Thermal Springs and Wellness
The neoclassical thermal facility continues a tradition dating to Roman times. The spring water contains sulfur and other minerals, which visitors use for skin treatments and therapeutic baths.
