Taormina, Sicily

Taormina is a beautiful hilltop community on the Northeastern coast of Sicily.  There is so much history.  The first place I visited was the ancient Teatro Greco or "Greek Theatre" which was built into the mountain side in early 7th century BC.  There are views of the Ionian sea and a snow covered Mount Etna (Europe's largest active volcano).  Admission to the theatre is 8 Euro and worth every bit as this was the highlight of my visit to this town.  

The next best thing about Taormina are the old churches and buildings, some dating back to the 10th century.  The streets are lined with shops, restaurants and cafes.  I stopped for espresso and my first cannoli pastry filled with sweet cheese and topped with candied orange peel.  Although some of the shops seem fancy, the general atmosphere is very small town and family oriented.  I saw many people out and about and running into people they knew and they would stop and greet each other.  Little boys were riding their bikes down the cobble stone streets and lots of smiling faces.