I wrote a post previous to this and it began to get to long, so I have split it into two. There are that many things to see & do in this large and bustling city. Here are 5 more free things to do in Catania that will keep you occupied and entertained for another day.
Palazzo degli Elefanti
Today this gorgeous palace is home to Catania City Hall. Don’t by shy, you can go inside to see the courtyard. When I visited, there were the prettiest planters full of bright pink flowers and in the middle of one, a black lava elephant statue, symbol of the city.
Best of all though are the beautiful ornate carriages on either side of the interior entrance. These carriages are used once a year, still to this day, in a parade within the city. Most of all, I really loved the wooden one, completely carved with figures and original painted detailing.
u Liotru
Possibly one of the most photographed things in all of Catania is the ancient and mysterious statue of the elephant with an Egyptian obelisk on its back.
The fountain it presently rests upon was built in the 1700’s, however the elephant and obelisk are much older. Made of local black lava, u Liotru is said to hold mysterious powers in that he can predict the eruptions of Mt. Etna and protect the people of Catania from these eruptions. There is very little known about the original of both the elephant and the obelisk.
Incredibly beautiful, so much more to me as I have always loved elephants, I couldn’t take my eyes from this amazing and beautiful old creature.
Fish Market
Set in possibly the most touristic part of the city, this ancient market has been carrying on for centuries. Be prepared, you are going to see a lot of blood and guts. No joke. This is not a place for the faint of heart. If you want to see but not get too close, there is an upper railing that you can stand at to take pictures and have a look without getting your shoes soiled.
I walked right into the thick of things of course, and it was amazing! The yelling, the stench, the realness and grit on the fishermen’s faces was like nothing else. I admit though, I did have to leave the site after a while, as that thick earthy smell of innards was overwhelming me.
Via dei Crociferi
Only a short two blocks from Piazza Universita, is another less visited tourist street in the heart of historic Catania. If you are after some Sicilian baroque architecture, this might be the perfect place for you to explore. Walk along for only a short two or three blocks and you will see no less than seven churches! Yes, seven!
The centuries old churches are grand, huge and beautiful to walk amongst. I did not enter these churches but admired them and the other old buildings along this picturesque street.
Street Art
There are several areas around the city to explore, but one close to old town and the tourist area is the San Barillo district. Lined with restaurants and café’s this area comes alive with the addition of street art and lights.
Explore this area a little deeper and you will find several other small streets with creative and fun graffiti and street art. I found one street in particular with painted doors. Loved it!
I could really go on and on with ideas for Catania. It is amazing to me that in such a small area of the city, there is so much to see and do and all for free! Have a little snack break, or a negroni or three along the way and the days pass by way to quickly in this lovely Sicilian city.
