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La Sirena Ristorante, Via Schisò, 98035 Giardini Naxos ME, Italy Apr
Giardini Naxos
Giardini Naxos, a picturesque town located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. Nestled between the stunning Ionian Sea and the towering Mount Etna, the town offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and vibrant Sicilian culture. Located just a few kilometres from the famous hilltop town of Taormina, Giardini Naxos provides a more relaxed alternative, yet it is packed with historical significance and modern tourist amenities Giardini Naxos holds the distinction of being the first Greek colony in Sicily, founded in 734 BC by settlers from Chalcis, a city in Euboea, Greece. The settlement grew into an important cultural and trading centre during its time, and the influence of its Greek origins is still evident in the town’s name, which is derived from the Greek island of Naxos. However, in the 5th century BC, the colony was destroyed by Dionysius I of Syracuse, and its survivors fle
The town’s coastline is also dotted with scenic coves and rocky outcrops, ideal for those who prefer quieter, more secluded spots. From the beach, visitors can take in spectacular views of the iconic Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, which looms majestically in the distance. The contrast between the blue sea and the green slopes of Etna creates an unforgettable backdrop. While Giardini Naxos has evolved into a modern tourist destination, it retains the charm of a traditional Sicilian fishing village. The town’s harbour is still a focal point of local life, where fishermen bring in their daily catch, and waterfront restaurants serve up some of the freshest seafood in the region. Traditional Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla Norma, arancini, and the famous granita (a semi-frozen dessert) are must-try culinary delights. Many of the restaurants and cafes along the promenade offer alfresco dining with beautiful views of the sea, creating a perfect setting for a leisurely meal. Throughout the year, Giardini Naxos hosts several cultural and religious festivals that showcase the town’s deep-rooted traditions. The most notable is the Festa di San Pancrazio, the town’s patron saint, celebrated with processions, fireworks, and live music. Giardini Naxos offers a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and authentic Sicilian culture. Its ancient Greek roots, combined with its stunning beaches and proximity to Mount Etna, make it an appealing destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re wandering through its archaeological sites, enjoying a day at the beach, or indulging in local Sicilian cuisine, Giardini Naxos provides an enriching and unforgettable experience on the sun-soaked coast of Sicily.
Worth a Visit
The Tempio Olimpico in Giardini Naxos, a seaside town on the eastern coast of Sicily, is one of the most significant archaeological remains of the island’s ancient Greek heritage. Giardini Naxos, considered the first Greek colony in Sicily, was founded in 734 BC by settlers from Chalcis in Euboea. This early settlement became a gateway for Hellenic culture in the western Mediterranean, and the Tempio Olimpico, also known as the Temple of Apollo Archegetes, was central to its religious and civic life. Today, although only its foundations remain, the temple stands as a powerful symbol of the colony’s history and its enduring contribution to Sicilian identity. The temple was dedicated to Apollo Archegetes, revered by the Greeks as the protector of colonies and a god of beginnings
The Chiesa di San Pancrazio in Giardini Naxos is a small yet meaningful landmark that reflects the religious devotion and cultural heritage of this seaside town on Sicily’s Ionian coast. Dedicated to Saint Pancras, an early Christian martyr and the patron saint of Giardini Naxos, the church occupies a central place in the spiritual life of the local community. Though modest in scale compared to the grand cathedrals of larger Sicilian cities, the Chiesa di San Pancrazio embodies the charm of local tradition, faith, and resilience, making it an essential stop for visitors who wish to understand the town’s character. Saint Pancras, to whom the church is dedicated, was a Roman martyr of the 4th century, celebrated for his youthful courage in defending Christianity. His cult spread widely across Europe during the Middle Ages, and in Giardini Naxos he became the protector of the town and its people.
Photo Gallery of Walk – La Sirena Ristorante, Via Schisò to Via Umberto I
Approximately 0.00 km – 0.00 miles
The walk starts in – La Sirena Ristorante, Via Schisò – Tempio Olimpico Naxos, Via Calcide Eubea – Walk back along Via Calcide Eubea to Via Schisò – Museum and Archaeological Area of Naxos, Via Schisò – Via Schisò – Via Naxos – Chiesa di San Pancrazio, Via Pietragoliti – Via Naxos – Lungomare Tysandros – Piazza San Giovanni Paolo II
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