I've had some frustrating experiences lately with flights, and decided this time to travel by ferry to Salerno, just south of Naples. On the way we had a stop for an afternoon in Catania.
What to do on a stopover in Catania? Why, stuff yourself with cannoli and cassate (I really recommend I Dolci di Nonna Vincenza - The ricotta with pistachio cream was simply divine), and arancini of course.
Before stuffing myself almost to the point of not being able to move, I roamed around the city trying to take in most of the major sites. Whilst the traffic can be a bit chaotic outside the centre, a lot of squares and thoroughfares are almost completely closed for traffic, and barring the occasional bus, you can appreciate the magnificent architecture calmly.
u Liotru, the mysterious elephant that is the symbol of the city of Catania. The statue of the elephant is made of lava and possibly comes from Roman times although no one knows for sure. Similarly the obelisk might have been transported from ancient Egypt. To top off this pagan amalgam, a Catholic cross.
Here are some more shots from around the city.
Being so close to the Etna, Catania is inextricably linked to lava, and this can be seen everywhere around the city.
Perhaps only divine intervention can postpone the next deadly eruption a bit longer.
Having posted a photo of the Etna seen from Malta, 210km away, in the previous post, ironically I could not even see the volcano from a couple of km away this time.
Leaving Catania, after a night on the ferry the destination is Salerno.