Ragusa, located in southeastern Sicily, is known for its wonderful weather, historic sites and buildings, and delicious cuisine. However, above all else it is known for its two distinct areas – Ragusa Ibla and Ragusa Superiore – which emerged following the 1693 earthquake that devastated the Val di Noto. Both parts are unique in their own way. Ragusa Superiore, or the upper part, is more modern, while Ragusa Ibla, the lower section, is known for its remarkable Baroque architecture. Both areas of Ragusa have a variety of unique and interesting activities to enjoy – each promising a memorable and fulfilling experience.

FESTIVAL & EVENTS IN RAGUSA

Local events and festivities occur throughout the year in Ragusa.

A couple of the city’s religious festivals include the feast days of Ragusa Superiore and Ragusa Ibla’s patron saints, St. John the Baptist and St. George, respectively. The Festa di San Giovanni Battista is held on August 29 each year, though the festivities begin on August 19 when a statue of the saint is moved through town. In the days leading up to August 29, the city celebrates with many cultural and artistic events including a procession with the saint’s relics, a gathering of local horses, and a parade featuring typical Sicilian carts.

The Festa di San Giorgio is held annually on the last Sunday of May with celebrations starting on Friday. The key event of the festival is a procession through the streets of Ragusa Ibla, during which a statue of St. George dressed as a knight is carried through town on the shoulders of the locals. The Duomo di San Giorgio is decorated with banners, lights, and flowers for the occasion. All the streets and squares of the historic city center are transformed with lights and vibrant colors. In addition to the religious events, several other festivities occur at this time including concerts, street performances, and fireworks displays.

During the summer, the city hosts Addio all’estate, a “Farewell to Summer” event which takes place in Marina di Ragusa between the first and second weekend of September. The celebration features a wide array of sporting, cultural, and culinary components including car shows, photography exhibitions, and stands in the main square that sell local specialties.

During the month of October, the Ibla Buskers Festival takes place in Ragusa Ibla over the course of several days. As a celebration of street artists of all types, there is a remarkable variety of entertainment from musicians to comedians, acrobats, clowns, magicians, and everything in between.

Other festivals occurring in Ragusa include the Ibla Grand Prize (an international music event and competition held every July over a period of several days), A Tutto Volume (a literary event held the third weekend of June featuring Italian writers of all mediums hosting readings and events), FestiWall (a week-long street art festival held in September during which artists create stunning street murals in Ragusa Superiore), and the Ibla Street Food Festival (a local celebration of traditional street food held at the end of August).

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

One of the most beautiful places in Ragusa to enjoy the outdoors is the Giardino Ibleo. This public garden features lush green plants, trees, and natural scenery as well as unique architectural features like fountains and churches. Travelers also love to visit the garden because of its wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding area including the Hyblaean Mountains. Truly, the Giardino Ibleo is a relaxing place to walk around and enjoy nature in the heart of Ragusa Ibla.

For a moment of tranquility in the center of Ragusa Superiore, stop by Villa Margherita, a recently renovated villa and public park. Constructed at the end of the 19th century, the complex spans over four acres and features small lakes.

About 15 miles outside of Ragusa is a beachfront resort town called Marina di Ragusa, which was originally an Ancient Greek settlement. There, travelers can camp and enjoy the outdoors. Nearby restaurants serve up delicious seafood as well.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

In the center of Ragusa Ibla is the Duomo di San Giorgio. This beautiful cathedral features amazing Baroque architecture. Designed in the 18th century by master architect Rosario Gagliardi, it is one of the most stunning representations of Baroque architecture in the area. Some of the key features of the structure are the Neoclassical dome, stained-glass art, and convex façade. Inside the cathedral, travelers will find elegant chapels and priceless frescoes, including a series that illustrates the key events at the end of St. George’s life.

Ragusa Superiore is home to the Duomo di San Giovanni Battista. This cathedral is a newer version of a previous structure that had been severely damaged by the fateful earthquake in 1693. It features an elaborate façade, complete with Baroque details such as carvings and sculptures as well as an opulently decorated interior with masterful paintings and sculptures by Sicilian artists such as Paolo Vetri.

Other churches that are worth a visit include the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale – a 13th century church with Gothic and Baroque elements, Chiesa di San Giuseppe – considered to be a top Baroque masterpiece together with the Duomo di San Giorgio, Chiesa del Purgatorio – a 17th century Baroque church dedicated to all souls in purgatory, and Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria – renowned for its distinctive blue dome that stands out in Ragusa’s skyline.

The Archeology Museum in Ragusa is a great place to take in the history of the area. It features a collection of ancient sculptures, pottery, and artifacts from prehistoric times to the Bronze age. Throughout the museum, travelers can learn about the history of ancient settlements once present in the area.

The area around Ragusa also features several archeological sites including those of Kamarina, Monte Arcibessi, Kaukana, Grotta delle Trabacche, the Catacombs of Cava Celone, Castiglione, and the remains of a Greek settlement in Ragusa Ibla.

SHOPPING IN RAGUSA

In addition to two shopping malls, Ragusa Superiore is home to a unique concept store called Le Formiche that stocks a variety of unique local products created by area artisans, craftspeople, and more. Here you will find souvenirs of all types including jewelry, accessories, toys, bath and body products, food products, and more.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN RAGUSA

One of the most unique features of Ragusa is its upper and lower sections. They are connected by the salita commendatore, a path of stairs that takes approximately 30 minutes to complete each way. It’s a one-of-a-kind method to travel from the old town Ragusa to the new while enjoying noteworthy panoramas.

Southwest of Ragusa is the stunning Castello di Donnafugata – a gorgeous palace with Neoclassical and Gothic architecture. Inside it houses 122 ornately decorated rooms and the Museo del Costume, a collection of fine fashion spanning many centuries.

While walking the streets of Ragusa Superiore, art lovers will enjoy admiring various murals painted on buildings throughout the city. On Via Ludovico Ariosto there is one by Portuguese street artist Daniel Eime. On Via Vittorio Alfieri, there is a massive mural by Italian artist Francesco Camillo Giorgino (aka Millo). And on Via Archimede, there’s a double mural by Turinese artist Pixel Pancho.

Those traveling to Ragusa will find a variety of exciting and historic things to do. From exploring the magnificent cathedrals and museums to enjoying beautiful gardens and shopping for local specialties, Ragusa has plenty to offer.