Scicli
Scicli, Ragusa
One of Sicily’s prettiest baroque cities (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site besides), Scicli is rich in elegant architecture, religious landmarks, and charming restaurants and cafés. The city’s hilltop San Matteo Church is its most recognizable monument, and other popular attractions range from its grand town hall to pretty palazzi.
The Basics
Located in Sicily’s scenic Val di Noto, the historical city of Scicli (pronounced “sheekly”) is celebrated for its beauty and its rich heritage—its origins date all the way back to the third millennium BC. Like other nearby cities, including Ragusa, Noto, and Modica, Scicli suffered devastating damage during an earthquake in 1693. As a result, however, it was rebuilt according to 17th-century baroque tastes and later earned a UNESCO designation for its beauty. Scicli is smaller and attracts fewer visitors than its compatriots, which lends it a tucked-away and tranquil allure.
Scicli is included on various Sicilian tour itineraries, and numerous walking tours are available, should you wish to discover its sights up close. Given its proximity to other UNESCO-listed baroque cities, Scicli can also be visited during an independent sightseeing tour of the Val di Noto.
Inspector Montalbano (Il Commissario Montalbano)*, a popular Italian detective show, is filmed in Scicli, and the city attracts numerous fans of the television series.
One of Scicli’s culinary highlights is Nivera, a gelato parlor. Drop by to sample flavors ranging from pistachio to sea-salt caramel, which are all made with local ingredients.
While the San Matteo Church is now closed to visitors, it’s worth trekking up the hill to admire its facade (and the impressive views overlooking the city).
How to Get There
Scicli is located in the province of Ragusa in southeastern Sicily, and it is within easy day-trip distance of cities like Catania and Syracuse. Travel by car via the E45; alternatively, guided tours provide a stress-free way to access the inland city.
When to Get There
Scicli is beautiful throughout the year, though it is at is most bustling and vibrant during the summer high season (restaurants and bars tend to close in the winter months). The city is also known for its many religious parades, which include traditional processionals—visit during Christmas and Easter to take in the spectacle.
Other Val di Noto Attractions
Many other UNESCO-listed cities are within a quick drive of Scicli. Head to Modica to taste the local chocolate, venture to Ragusa to see its immense Cathedral of San Giorgio, and go to Noto to explore its fantastically opulent city center.
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