Catania, Sicily’s second-largest city, was founded in 8^th century BC and was once among Italy’s most important cultural centers, particularly during the Renaissance period.  This was our final “home base” for three nights before embarking on our post-tour extension to the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

Located on the east coast of Sicily, the densely populated city of nearly 300,000 residents has a metropolitan population of over one million people.  The industrial center of Sicily, Catania is also its logistical and commercial hub.  It is known as the “Black City,” because black lava stone was commonly used in construction.

We arrived in the late afternoon following our visit to Sircusa and had a walking tour of the city the next day, after visiting the World War II Museum, Museo Storico dello Sbarco.  Military and war museums are a hard pass for me, but I did manage to stumble upon an excellent photography exhibit featuring the works of Phil Stern (1919 – 2014).

Best known for his portraits of Hollywood stars and musicians, this exhibit mostly featured his work while serving as a U.S. Army Ranger during World War II.  But what caught my eye (and made me laugh!) was something he sent to Frank Sinatra.  Make sure to read it in its entirety.

(For all photos, click on the image for a full screen view.)

The following are scenes photographed around the city center of Catania during our free afternoons and evenings:

Next up: SICILY & AMALFI COAST #19: TERRIFIC TAORMINA