Catania

Due to bad weather, we were unable to get a boat back to Catania in time to visit Etna close up. Although we were diasppointed, we all agreed that Stromboli had more than made up for it.

An evening stroll around Catania brought mixed opinions. On one hand it was full of history, architecture and culture, all enhanced by it being in the shadow of Etna itself.

However, the people of Catania seemed to have fallen out of love with their city. Throughout our visit it was evident that there was a feeling of disappointment in the level of litter, graffiti and general tiredness. Some of the oldest monuments juggled attempts to preserve ancient buildings, only to have them littered with cigarette packets and beer bottles. I guess when you see this stuff every day you might take if for granted, but it seems sad to a visitor.

One exception above though - what better way to brighten up a disused doorway!!