Ragusa is comprised of two towns, the ancient hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla, and the modern city that faces it on a plateau west of the old city. Ibla, named for the Iblean Mountains where is stands, has been occupied for millennia. We don’t know too much about ancient life in Ibla because in 1693 there was a series of earthquakes that rocked the region, destroying the old city. The nobility during that period who were allied with the Spanish kingdom, had no interest in history or past cultures, so when they rebuilt, they covered everything up and buried the past. When on this hillside facing Ragusa Ibla, I often wonder what lies beneath the churches and homes. What temple ruins may have been covered? I love watching the sun and moon rise over the hillside and wandering the staircases and alleyways. I’m fascinated by the economic changes that happened as a result of the 1693 earthquake’s destruction and subsequent rebuilding. I want to share it with you.
Join me to wander in Ragusa and beyond this February 15-22 during Wandering Sicily, a walking and cultural immersion experience in Sicily. Learn more at https://experiencesicily.com/wandering-sicily-2025/
