Acireale, Italy

Church of San Domenico, Acireale, Italy
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acireale,_san_domenico_02.JPG
Author: sailko


Acireale is a coastal city within the province of Catania in Sicily. It covers 39 sq km (15 sq mi) and has a population of 53,000 people (2012 estimate). The city is located at the foot of Mount Etna, the tallest mountain in Italy as well as the tallest volcano in Europe.

According to tradition, Acireale is the site of an ancient Greek city known as Xiphonia that has mysteriously disappeared. During Roman times, another Greek city appeared here called Akis. It remained in existence into the Middle Ages, when it became known as Aquilia. However it was destroyed by a huge earthquake in 1169.

Present-day Acireale traces its history to the late 14th century, when a new city was built on the site and called Aquilia Nova or New Aquilia. This city evolved to become Acireale. In 1693 it was almost completely destroyed by another huge earthquake. World War II bombings also exerted its toll on the city.

Acireale

Acireale is located to the north of Catania, the provincial capital. Take the A18 motorway heading north out of Catania to reach it.

Places of Interest in Acireale

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