Noto is blooming. Noto is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the capital of Sicilian baroque architecture. Colonized in 263 BC by the Romans with a peace treaty, it was under the rule of Gerone II during his reign. Over the centuries it fell under the rule of the Romans, Arabs, Normans and Aragonese. In 1693 the city was completely destroyed by a catastrophic earthquake, which killed more than a thousand people. A collective decision was made to rebuild the city five miles farther down the Val di Noto or in English, Noto Valley.

The city center is an extraordinary display of marvelous palaces decorated with flowery and lavish details, sinuous wrought-iron balconies and opulent churches. With its perfect urban organization and luxurious buildings, the city showcases fascinating evidence of the most important and famous features of Sicilian baroque. It comes as no surprise to know that one of the most interesting and appealing events in southern Sicily takes in Noto in the historical center of this Baroque treasure in the province of Syracuse.