We flew into Palermo from Rome, and then drove 3.5 hours west to the little city of Taormina. Taormina rests on the shore of the island and is tucked in between cliffs and mountains, with Mount Etna located in the distant horizon--one of Italy's more active volcanoes.
Our first night was devoted to traveling and getting settled at our accommodations. Little could be seen of the landscape on our journey from the airport to Taormina, as most of it occurred during the night. However, when we arrived in Taormina, we approached the city through a tunnel. On one side of the tunnel, one could only see the hills that surround the city, but as we came out on the other side of the tunnel, the city appeared lit up by the city lights and tucked into the side of the hill--quite majestic. That night, we ventured into the city center to find a place to eat. We strolled along the medieval streets lit up by modern shops and dotted with inviting bakeries. Taormina is a charming city with hidden treasures, such as a romantic restaurant tucked away on side streets.
The next day, we planned our morning around a visit to the ancient Greek theater that sits high above the city, with many beautiful views. We woke up to a clear day and prayed before the beautiful view from our hotel balcony:
We meandered our way around the city, to see what we had not seen the night before, and slowly made our way to the theater. On the way, we stopped in gorgeous churches stuck amidst grand landscapes and ancient architecture.
Once we finally got to the theater, I was amazed at what I saw. The theater alone is well preserved, and is a sight to be seen in itself. However, it is placed in such a way that it is completely surrounded by beautiful views and landscapes. After a few hours of picture taking, here is what I came out with:
In short, it was an amazing experience and a sight to be seen. Shortly after, we decided to make a trek up the side of Mount Etna, in search for flowing lava. After a pause for a delicious Sicilian lunch, we made our way up the mountain as it slowly became cooler and more desolate. It was beautiful to see the leaves changing colors on the side of the mountain. It finally felt like fall, and reminded me of those crisp fall days back home.
After ascending the mountain, we were disappointed not to find any lava. However, what we did find was almost as cool--the destructed remains of former lava flows. We are talking acres upon acres of destruction, both of things natural and man-made.
After a long day of touring both man-made and natural wonders, we decided to build fraternity over a typical Sicilian meal. Sicily is known for their great seafood, most uniquely when served raw, as well as their unique flavors and great wine. We dined at a restaurant recommended by various sources, and we were not let down. The food in Sicily may be the part that leaves an impression on me the most.
On our final day, we took our time driving back to Palermo for the flight home, stopping at more quaint villages on the way. Driving along the coast, we had the opportunity to see plenty of amazing landscapes. Before arriving to the airport, we stopped at a nearby village called Monreale, where one of the most beautiful cathedrals is located. The cathedral is known for its well preserved mosaics, which line the walls of the interior of the church.
It was a wonderful experience, and I was blessed to have it. What made it more meangingful, however, was the fact that I was able to share it with some of the men who I will be serving with for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee 4 years from now, please God.
