The journey continues to discover the decorated soul of Sicily: today, with Car and Driver, our friends head to Caltagirone, a pearl of ceramics and a treasure chest of ancient legends.
The Sicilian sun is already high when our car with driver stops at the hotel entrance. Michele and Brigitte, fresh from an exciting day in Gibellina, are eager to start a new adventure. Waiting for them, as always, is our punctual, smiling driver, ready to accompany them to another wonderful stop: Caltagirone, the capital of Sicilian ceramics.
“I read something last night about the famous Moor's heads,” Brigitte recounts as she settles into the car. “They seem so fascinating and mysterious.”
Michele smiles. “They are more than famous. They have a tragic story behind them, almost a legend of love and revenge.”
During the scenic drive to Caltagirone, the driver shares some curiosities with the two guests.
“Caltagirone ceramics have been known since the Arab era,” he explains. “But it was during the Norman and then Baroque periods that they exploded as a true art form. Today, every corner of the city speaks with the colors of glazes and majolica.”
Caltagirone opens up among the hills and decorated domes.
Upon arrival in Caltagirone, the car is conveniently left in a reserved area: one of the great advantages of our car rental service with driver is precisely this. No worries about parking or the narrow streets of the historic centers. Michele and Brigitte begin their visit relaxed, ready to be amazed.
The first impact is the famous Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte: 142 steps, each decorated with hand-painted ceramic tiles. Each riser is a journey through the history of Sicilian art, from the Arab era to the eighteenth century.
“I had never seen such a spectacular staircase,” exclaims Brigitte, enchanted. “It looks like a painting winding its way towards the sky.”
“And imagine during the Illuminated Staircase Festival,” adds Michele. “Each step is adorned with colored lights, creating a cascade of light.”
Ceramic Legends: The Moor's Heads
While they stroll among the artisan workshops, Brigitte notices a display case with two famous Moor's heads, painted in detail and vibrant colors.
“This legend is very old,” recounts the artisan of the workshop where they stop. “It is said that a young Sicilian woman fell madly in love with a Moor who came from afar. But when she discovered that he would abandon her to return to his homeland to his family, she killed him and made a vase with his head, planting basil in it. The scent attracted the envy of the neighbors, and everyone began to model similar heads.”
Brigitte listens with wide eyes. “Macabre, but romantic. It's such a strong symbol!”
Among flowering balconies and hidden courtyards Our driver then takes them to the upper part of the city, from which they can enjoy a splendid view of the surrounding hills. The narrow streets wind among ancient buildings, flowering balconies, and silent courtyards, where every corner tells a story.
“It feels like being in a living nativity scene,” says Michele. “Every building has character, every corner is a detail.”
Museums and tradition A visit to the Ceramics Museum was a must, where our guests were enchanted by the variety of styles, colors, and techniques, from prehistory to the most modern creations.
“This city truly lives off its art,” comments Brigitte.
Lunch in the heart of tradition The morning concludes with a typical lunch in a trattoria in the historic center. Pasta alla norma, eggplant rolls, and, of course, pistachio-based desserts.
“Not just art for the eyes, but also for the palate,” smiles Michele.
The unhurried return After a relaxed stroll to buy some ceramics to take home, Michele and Brigitte find the comfort of the car waiting for them. With fresh air, comfortable seats, and an always courteous driver, the return journey is a true pleasure.
Why choose car rental with driver in Sicily?
- To travel stress-free, in total relaxation
- To enjoy every corner of Sicily without worries
- To rely on punctual and discreet professionals
- To experience tailor-made experiences, every day
Contact us to organize your tour in Sicily:
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📞 +39 333 160 6317 | +39 328 481 7474
🌐 www.sicilycarservice.com
Sicily Car Service – Travel comfortably, live the emotion. ✨
