On Shaky Ground
Italy (Puglia) Sightseeing in Ragusa (Tue 29 May 2018)
Weather: 18⁰C min – 28⁰C max, mostly cloudy
“Make yourself stronger than your excuses.” ~ Unknown
Ragusa has two distinct areas, the upper town being called Ragusa Superiore and the lower (and older) town being called Ragusa Ibla, the two halves being separated by a deep ravine Valle dei Ponti. This duality came after the famous 1693 earthquake, when the Ragusans took on their split personality.
After spending the day exploring Ragusa from the seat of my bicycle, I would have to agree that it is one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily. The view from the upper town (particularly from the church Santa Maria delle Scale) overlooking Ragusa Ibla on its own separate hilltop is quite breathtaking.
Ibla is sometimes referred to as Inferiore, but inferior it is definitely not. The reconstruction works after the earthquake put a lot of attention to this part of the city with the result of creating a one-of-a-kind place, with wonderful palaces and churches built with the local stone. The architectural masterpieces built after the earthquake since 2002 belong to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Unencumbered by pannier bags that I had left at the B & B La Dimora di Piazza Carmine where I am booked in for tonight, I was able to chain my bicycle up when I wanted to explore the many attractions of this marvellous town (such as the magnificent Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista).
I haven’t felt the ground shaking under me while I have been enjoying my rest day in Ragusa, so I am looking forward to my downhill glide to the coastal resort town of Cava D’Aliga tomorrow.
Yes I agree with you the photos tell how beautiful the town is.
I hope you did go in the Cathedral to have a little prayer to make your self stronger!
Very cold here in Sydney so make Hay while the sun shines.