Porta Catania is the western counterpart of the two gates at opposite sides of the historic centre of Taormina. This 15th-century portal comprises a grand arch that was once a segment of the ramparts that encircled the town. Capture photos of the green rolling hills and valleys framed by the archway of these medieval structures.
Spot the Aragonese coat of arms adorning the structure above the arch. You can also see the village’s emblem and the date of the gate’s construction, 1440.
On the outer side of the arch lies a verdant valley, while within the Old Town ramparts is a lively street lined by boutiques and restaurants. Sip coffee at an outdoor table of one of the cafés, with an unobstructed view of the gate.
Admire the charming turrets jutting out from the top of the gateway’s wall. See the sight at night, when the lamp hanging from the keystone lights up the arch. Head to the bars along the Corso Umberto street that runs across the length of the town.
Note that meetings were held in the square beside the gate in Norman times. The arch is also known by locals as the Porta del Tocco, in reference to the sound made by the bell toll that signaled these gatherings.
Access the Porta Catania for free it is open to the public at all times. Find it on the Corso Umberto street, a little west of the centre of Taormina. Walk west from the Piazza Duomo for 2 minutes to reach the gate. You can also drive and drop off your car in the Porta Catania Parking Lot on the western side of the portal.
Among the nearby attractions are the Comune di Taormina town hall, the Carmine Church and the Taormina Church.
