After decades of dreaming of the painterly Sicilian land and seascapes seen in favorite films like ‘Cinema Paradisio’, we traveled to the famed Italian island and spent one glorious week in the Baroque villages of Southern Sicily with my family. The town of Noto, as seen in White Lotus Season Two, served as our home base and every day we took to the roads to explore a different region from the mountains to the olive groves to the coast and, as a Sicily wedding photographer, I was completely inspired by the golden light and perfectly patinaed tones that are so perfectly captured on film, as seen below.
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Noto, Sicily
We rented a villa just outside the enchanting Baroque village of Noto, Sicily, a place where time seems to slow down amid the golden hues of its historic architecture. Known for its stunning cathedral and grand palaces, Noto is a UNESCO World Heritage site that exudes an old-world charm. Our villa, nestled in the rolling countryside, offered breathtaking views of the surrounding olive groves and vineyards. Each morning, we enjoyed fresh pastries and coffee on the terrace, soaking in the tranquility before heading into the village to explore its picturesque streets and indulge in local Sicilian cuisine.
Nachè: Experience contemporary Sicilian cuisine with a creative twist at Nachè, where traditional flavors meet innovative presentations in the heart of Noto.
Caffè Costanzo: Indulge in a true taste of Sicily at Caffè Costanzo, known for its exquisite granita and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a refreshing break in Noto.
Trattoria Giufà: Savor authentic Sicilian dishes at Trattoria Giufà, a charming eatery in Noto offering a cozy setting and a menu filled with local delights.
Caffe Sicilia: Don’t miss a visit to Caffe Sicilia, a world-renowned pastry shop in Noto famous for its delectable almond granita and exquisite desserts.
Pasta Fresca da Sabrina: Enjoy homemade pasta and traditional Sicilian dishes at Pasta Fresca da Sabrina, a hidden gem in Noto that offers a genuine culinary experience.
Anche Gli Angeli: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Anche Gli Angeli, a stylish café and bar in Noto that doubles as an art gallery, offering a unique cultural experience.
Ristorante Crocifisso: Dine at Ristorante Crocifisso for a refined Sicilian meal, where local ingredients and culinary craftsmanship come together in a beautiful setting in Noto.
Acqua di Noto: Discover the essence of Noto captured in a bottle with Acqua di Noto, a luxurious fragrance that embodies the rich scents of Sicilian flora and the elegance of the Baroque city.
Palazzo Castelluccio: An elegant 17th-century Baroque palace in Modica, this exquiste Palazzo captivates with its ornate façade and historical significance, reflecting the grandeur and artistic heritage of the city’s architectural past.
Ortigia di Sicilia
We spent a day in Ortigia, the captivating island at the heart of Syracuse, Sicily, where history and culture come alive around every corner. Connected to the mainland by three bridges, Ortigia is a place where ancient ruins and Baroque splendor coexist harmoniously. As we wandered through its narrow, sun-dappled streets, we marveled at the Syracuse Cathedral, a stunning architectural gem built atop the ruins of a Greek temple dedicated to Athena. The island’s rich history unfolded before us as we explored the ancient Piazza Archimede, home to the iconic Fountain of Diana, and the medieval Castello Maniace, which has guarded the harbor for centuries. Our day in Ortigia was a journey through time, enriched by the island’s vibrant markets, inviting cafés, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Antico Mercato di Ortigia: Explore the vibrant Antico Mercato di Ortigia, a bustling market where you can savor the freshest local produce, seafood, and artisanal goods in the heart of Ortigia.
Fratelli Burgio: Delight in the flavors of Sicily at Fratelli Burgio, a gourmet deli in Ortigia known for its high-quality cheeses, cured meats, and traditional Sicilian delicacies. This was my favorite dining experience in all of Sicily!
Voglia Matta: Treat yourself to gelato at Voglia Matta, an Ortigia favorite where the rich, creamy flavors and innovative combinations make it a must-visit for dessert lovers.
Syracuse Cathedral: Marvel at the Syracuse Cathedral, a stunning Baroque masterpiece in Ortigia that reflects centuries of history, built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple.
Cortile Verga: Enjoy a meal in the intimate setting of Cortile Verga, a charming courtyard restaurant in Ortigia offering a mix of traditional Sicilian cuisine and contemporary dishes.
Ristorante Regina Lucia: Dine at Ristorante Regina Lucia, where the exquisite menu combines the best of Sicilian culinary traditions with a sophisticated ambiance in Ortigia’s historic center.
The Sicilian Coast
We took time to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Sicilian coast, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean meet rugged cliffs and golden beaches. The coastline is a true paradise, with panoramic views that seem to stretch endlessly under the brilliant Sicilian sun. We strolled along the seaside, feeling the refreshing sea breeze and listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves. The vibrant colors of the coast—deep blue waters, bright green vegetation, and the warm tones of the rocky shore—created a stunning natural palette.
Vendicari Nature Reserve: Discover the pristine beauty of Vendicari Nature Reserve, a coastal oasis where golden beaches, ancient ruins, and diverse wildlife create a perfect blend of natural and historical wonders.
Marzamemi and Taverna La Cialoma: Stroll through the charming fishing village of Marzamemi and savor fresh seafood at Taverna La Cialoma, where the authentic flavors of Sicily meet the picturesque views of the Mediterranean. The town square is one of the most charming that I’ve ever witnessed and has served as a backdrop for Dolce & Gabbana’s fashion shows.
Isola Delle Correnti: Visit Isola Delle Correnti, the southernmost tip of Sicily, where the Ionian and Mediterranean seas converge, offering a unique and breathtaking coastal experience.
Sailing With Invictus: Experience the Sicilian coast from the sea by sailing with Invictus, where crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and stunning vistas make for an unforgettable maritime adventure.
Corallo Food & Beach: Relax at Corallo Food & Beach, a coastal haven where you can enjoy gourmet Sicilian cuisine and unwind on the serene beaches, all set against the backdrop of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
Baroque Villages
Exploring Sicily’s Baroque villages was like stepping back in time for this Sicily wedding photographer, and our journey took us beyond the renowned Noto and Ortigia to the equally enchanting towns of Modica and Ragusa. Each village, with its intricately decorated churches and palatial buildings, showcases the opulent beauty of Baroque architecture. In Modica, we admired the elaborate façades and indulged in the town’s famous chocolate, a delicious legacy of its rich history. Ragusa, with its stunning blend of old and new, offered us a glimpse into the architectural splendor of its historic center, perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding countryside. Together, these Baroque gems of Sicily provided a mesmerizing tapestry of history, culture, and artistic brilliance, making our exploration of the island’s architectural heritage truly unforgettable.
Ragusa: Ragusa, a city with a rich history dating back to ancient times, was notably rebuilt in Baroque style after a devastating earthquake in 1693, and today it stands as a testament to the resilience and artistic brilliance of the Sicilian Baroque era. We enjoyed a delightful meal at Cantunera, a charming restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu brimming with traditional Sicilian flavors. The local dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and a touch of culinary artistry, perfectly complemented the town’s picturesque setting and rich cultural heritage.
Modica: Modica, renowned for its striking Baroque architecture and historical charm, is also famous for its unique chocolate-making tradition, which has been celebrated since the time of the Aztecs and continues to be a delicious highlight of Sicilian culture. We visited Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, where we indulged in traditional Modican chocolate, crafted using age-old methods that highlight the town’s rich confectionery heritage. At Enoteca Rappa, we enjoyed a selection of fine Sicilian wines paired with local delicacies, immersing ourselves in the region’s diverse flavors. Lastly, Osteria dei Sapori Perduti offered a charming dining experience with its creative menu, showcasing the best of Modican cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Photos by Sicily wedding photographer Molly Carr Photography
