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f there’s a tourist hotspot in Sicily, it’s modern luxury brands, the town’s old-world
Taormina. This picturesque mountain- character remains intact, with glimpses of
I top town blends ancient charm with its layered past at every turn.
high-end glamour, making it one of the One of Taormina’s most famous attractions
most popular destinations on the island. is the Teatro Greco, an ancient Greek
We opted for an “on-your-own” tour, giving theater that later saw Roman
us the freedom to explore at our own pace, modifications and today remains
and from the moment we arrived, it was remarkably well preserved. The
easy to see why Taormina has enchanted amphitheater offers stunning views of the
visitors for centuries. Ionian Sea and Mount Etna beyond its
Mary was certain we had been here before, timeworn stone arches. While we were
but I couldn’t recall its cobblestone streets tempted to visit, the long lines dissuaded
with panoramic views of Mount Etna, its us.
volcanic peak wreathed in smoke. Yet, as As our visit was winding down, we stumbled
we walked through the ancient gates and upon a small plaza overlooking the sea,
stepped onto Corso Umberto, a bustling where two street musicians in red and
thoroughfare lined with designer white striped jackets and straw hats were
boutiques, lively cafés, and charming performing for a gathering crowd. The
storefronts, I started to wonder if she familiar strains of their music triggered a
might be right. sudden rush of recognition. At that
Taormina is a shopper’s paradise. Gucci, moment, it all clicked—Mary was right. We
Louis Vuitton, and Dolce & Gabbana had been here before. On our previous
occupy beautifully preserved buildings that visit, we had entered on the opposite side
date back centuries, blending seamlessly of town, missing the streets filled with
with the town’s historic architecture. Even high-end shops. This time, explored from a
for those uninterested in shopping, the fresh angle, Taormina felt like a completely
elegant window displays, intricate stone new discovery, reinforcing just how
facades, and flower-draped balconies captivating and multifaceted this little
make for a visual feast. Despite the many Sicilian gem truly is.
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