Taormina

Taormina, historic resort town on the east coast of Sicily, midway between the towns of Messina and Catania. Situated on the slope of the coastal range at an elevation of 200 m (650 ft), Taormina enjoys an incomparable view of the sea and of Mount Etna, which has an elevation of 3323 m (10,902 ft). The combination of scenic beauty and a mild climate has made Taormina and its environs a well-known winter resort. There are numerous hotels as well as many private villas.

Founded by natives of Sicily, Taormina was colonized by Greeks at the end of the 5th century bc and shared the political history of the nearby Greek cities before and during Roman occupation. Its importance outlasted the Roman Empire, but in ad 902 Taormina was destroyed by the Saracens, who later rebuilt it. The city prospered under Norman rule in the 11th century, but later declined. Among the monuments is the Greek theater, constructed during the Hellenistic Period (4th century to 1st century bc), and the second largest of its kind in Sicily. Taormina is a popular departure point for tourist excursions to nearby sites, including the grottoes of Capo Sant' Andrea. Population (2007 estimate) 11,026.