DK Travel : Sicily : Southeast Sicily

The landscape of the southeast is markedly different from the rest of the island, with its strata of white limestone supporting scrubland vegetation, steep gorges formed by ancient river courses, and characteristic low, dry-stone walls marking the boundaries of fertile fields. Yet this small corner of Sicily is rich in sights. Unmissable are the Greek and Roman remains at Syracuse, the most important city of Magna Graecia, while Caltagirone, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa and Scicli have all recently been declared World Heritage Sites on the merits of their Baroque architecture and innovative urban planning, the result of the rebuilding effort after the destruction of the 1693 earthquake. Of equal enjoyment is the current gastronomic renaissance taking place in the area, rediscovering both the seafood from the coastal zones and the meats, cheeses and wild greens of the interior. Young chefs, aware that old traditions, methods and even ingredients are on the brink of extinction, are returning to their roots and working hard to revitalize and preserve the authentic cuisine of the region.

In Scicli have a coffee on the terrace at Pura Follia on Via Nazionale, looking out at the tiled rooftops of the old village.

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Summer Houses of the Nobility

The wealthy families of Modica built elaborate summer homes in the countryside. Drives lead to walled villas with grand façades, courtyards and elegant gardens.
Syracuse

Remains of the mighty powerhouse of Magna Graecia make up some of the most important sites in Sicily, while the small historic centre of Ortygia is one of the most pleasant town centres on the island (see Syracuse).
Temple of Apollo

On Largo XXV Luglio are the remains of the Doric Temple of Apollo. Built in 575 BC, this was the first temple in Sicily with an exterior colonnade of stone columns. Two monolithic sandstone columns remain.
The Greek Ghetto

The six parallel streets between via della Giudecca and via GB Alagona follow the Greek urban plan. It is still crowded with medieval houses and laundry flapping in the breeze.
Trattoria La Foglia, Syracuse

Eat well in this quirky restaurant where opera blasts out of the speakers, menus are hand-decorated in fake luxurious fabrics, and the decor is homely.
U parmientu, Buscemi

The grape press here has intricate workings handmade in wood and stone.
U trappitu, Buscemi

The olive press is housed in a space hewn out of the rock.
Vendicari

The reserve’s maquis supports thyme, rosemary and juniper; the wetlands host migratory birds. Depending on the season, watch for herons, egrets and flamingoes.
Via Maestranza

Now lined with boutiques and restaurants, this street was where noble families built their Baroque palaces, often incorporating older structures.
Villa Rizzone, Modica

This Neo-Classical 19th-century villa has an open courtyard planted with palms, while the interior is painted in blue and gold.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €25
- €25-€35
- €35-€55
- €55-€70
- over €70