One of the towns we wanted to see was Noto near Siracusa. The town was founded around 260 B.C. as a mountain town and had a rich history through the centuries. However, in 1693 a catastrophic earthquake struck the area and the town was razed to the ground. More than half the population was lost and rebuilding in the same place did not seem wise because of the ongoing seismic activity in that area. So it was decided to rebuild the town in its current location, closer to the shore line.
By the time the town was ready to be rebuilt, the architectural style in vogue was Baroque; a style born in Italy and very ornate, dramatic, grander and more decorated.
Visit of the bell tower of the Basilica of St. Carlo Bartolomeo.
We were very enthusiastic about seeing the view of Noto from atop the bell tower. And on the way up, we were the only two people climbing the claustrophobic staircase. However, the stone steps were short, they were many and the width of the cylindrical stairs could fit only one person at a time….either going up or going down. It took several attempts to get back down the staircase, having to back up several times!
Architectural details of the buildings
Even the stairs are artistic!
Scenes from Noto
I saved this image for last because he looked like I felt….he was probably thinking, “I’ve had enough of Baroque architecture….I’m hot, tired, and hungry….I’m done!” LOL
Floriana 
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