Scicli

Scicli is one of the baroque cities of southeastern Sicily, protected by UNESCO, but is perhaps less well-known than the more visited Noto, Ragusa, and Modica. However, this overlooked city has a panoramic location and a charm equal to its rivals. Scicli shares its architectural heritage with other cities in the area, but also has some unique attractions, including a well-maintained center, clean and fine stone, and a dramatic situation in a basin dominated by churches and monasteries on high cliffs.

The heart of Scicli, and the part of tourist interest, is still at the foot of the ridge dominated by the Church of San Matteo, which is now abandoned. At the sides of the ridge are the valleys of Santa Maria la Nova and San Bartolomeo, each of which contains the grandiose churches from which they take their name. One of Scicli's oldest districts, the abandoned rock settlement of Chiafura, is located at the foot of this ridge, accessible from a path near the ruined fort.

From the ridge, green-walled paths lead down and along the steep slope, where you will find cave dwellings, some are simple entrances and others are built outward into semi-houses, a couple of which have been restored. It is certainly a destination to consider for a day trip.