Things to Do in 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.

Just outside Ragusa in southeastern Sicily, the beautiful 14th-century Donnafugata Castle (Castello di Donnafugata is one of the island’s most sumptuous treasures. Like many historic buildings in Sicily, the castle is a unique patchwork of architectural and artistic styles, including a Venetian Gothic facade and baroque interior.

Some of the finest examples of Sicilian baroque architecture are located in Ragusa’s old town, Ragusa Ibla. Of these, the 18th-century Chiesa di San Giuseppe is one of the most sumptuous, with a richly sculpted facade and bell tower and elaborate interior stuccoes. A stop in this magnificent church is a highlight of Ragusa Ibla tours.