Baroque Cities

Discover the wonders of south-eastern Sicily starting from Tenuta Olive Alive.

South-eastern Sicily offers a fascinating blend of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Staying at our estate near Noto gives you the opportunity to explore some of the most enchanting destinations in the region. Below is a detailed guide to the main seaside locations in the area, with approximate distances from the estate.

Noto (5 km – 10 minutes)

Known as the “Capital of Baroque”, Noto captivates visitors with its UNESCO-listed historic centre, characterised by buildings in golden limestone that take on a unique glow at sunset. The Cathedral of San Nicolò, with its majestic staircase, dominates the scenic Via Nicolaci, famous for the Infiorata that each year transforms the street into a colourful floral carpet. Palazzo Ducezio, home to the town hall, is also worth a visit, particularly its elegant Hall of Mirrors.

Siracusa (35 km – 40 minutes)

The cradle of Magna Graecia, Syracuse boasts an extraordinary historical and archaeological heritage. The Neapolis Archaeological Park is home to the famous Greek Theatre, still used today for classical performances, and the enigmatic Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave renowned for its remarkable acoustics. A visit to the enchanting island of Ortigia, the historic heart of the city, is also essential, with highlights including the Fountain of Arethusa, the Cathedral built upon an ancient Greek temple, and Castello Maniace overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Modica (40 km – 50 minutes)

Modica is renowned both for its Baroque architecture and for its artisanal chocolate. Divided into Modica Alta and Modica Bassa and connected by panoramic stairways, the city offers striking views at every turn. The Cathedral of San Giorgio, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque, towers over the city with its imposing façade and dramatic staircase. In the historic centre, the Antiche Dolcerie Bonajuto offer tastings of chocolate made according to the ancient Aztec tradition, still processed cold today.

Ragusa Ibla (50 km – 1 hour)

An authentic Baroque quarter, Ragusa Ibla stands out for its timeless charm. Its cobbled streets lead to memorable squares and panoramic viewpoints. The vibrant heart of the district is Piazza Duomo, dominated by the Cathedral of San Giorgio, designed by architect Rosario Gagliardi. The Iblean Garden is also worth a visit, a green oasis offering breathtaking views over the surrounding valley.

Scicli (45 km – 1 hour)

A filming location for the TV series Inspector Montalbano, Scicli impresses with its refined Baroque architecture. Among its most notable buildings are Palazzo Beneventano, considered one of the finest in Sicily, and the Church of San Bartolomeo, set dramatically between rocky cliffs. A stroll along Via Mormino Penna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals a truly distinctive atmosphere.

Palazzolo Acreide (40 km – 50 minutes)

This hilltop town, part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy” association, boasts a glorious past, evidenced by its remarkably well-preserved Greek Theatre, still used for performances today. The historic centre is marked by elegant Baroque churches, such as the Church of San Sebastiano, notable for its impressive façade and spectacular staircase