Ispica, a charming town in the southeastern corner of Sicily, offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and lively culture. Often overshadowed by larger cities like Modica and Ragusa, Ispica stands out with its unique characteristics, making it a great holiday destination. The town’s location has seen it occupied by the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines in ancient times.
In this post, we’ll guide you through all the must-see places around Ispica, including the Cava d’Ispica, the old town, and natural parks. Join us as we explore this quiet and intimate Baroque town in Sicily.
Discover the Ispica Caves
Cava d’Ispica lies just a few kilometres from the town of Ispica. This long and narrow canyon stretches about 13 kilometres and ranks among the most significant archaeological and natural sights in Sicily. Ancient cave drawings, tombs, churches, and catacombs line the cave, making it a special place. Inhabited for thousands of years, the canyon contains artefacts dating back to the Bronze Age.
The well-preserved catacombs and tombs, cut directly into the limestone walls, are particularly remarkable. The churches in the area, such as the Grotta dei Santi (Cave of the Saints), reveal religious practices and illustrate how early Christians lived. Nearby, the Byzantine Church of Santa Maria stands as another testament to the area’s rich religious history.
Exploring the caves
We highly recommend planning a visit to the Cava d’Ispica, which you can access from various points. You can start your hike through the canyon from the town of Ispica, following well-marked trails that lead to all the archaeological sites.
For a more in-depth experience, you can sign up for a guided tour, where local guides will accompany you through the cave, explaining the historical significance of each site.
The entrance fee to the cave is €4, with discounts available for students and seniors. Since opening hours vary by season, please check with local guides to confirm the schedule.
Baroque architecture and places of interest
The town of Ispica was reshaped, like much of southeastern Sicily after a devastating earthquake hit in 1693. The town was largely rebuilt in the Baroque style, which demonstrates its rich and ornate architecture and style. You can see this all through the town’s centre, through the elaborate facades of churches and palaces.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
This Basilica is one of Ispica’s best-kept secrets. This stunning church, located in the centre of the town, is a must-visit for anyone who loves history and architecture. The exterior of the church features intricate stone carvings and columns.
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is open daily from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Palazzo Bruno di Belmonte
Another must-see site in Ispica is the Palazzo Bruno di Belmonte. It features influences from Baroque artists but also houses some great works from Sicilian Art Nouveau architects. The Palazzo has many ornate balconies with decorative ironwork and a unique facade that showcases both Gothic and Renaissance influences.
The Palazzo is currently used as a municipal building, but it is open to the public on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. There is no entrance fee.
Chiesa dell’Annunziata
This is yet another church in Ispica that is completed in the Baroque style. Its facade has intricate stucco work and the ceilings are painted with frescos. It is one of the town’s active churches and is used as a place of worship for many locals. You can visit the church from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Stroll along the Ispica's centre
Ispica’s charming town centre has many narrow streets full of Baroque buildings and quaint piazzas where you can enjoy a coffee or gelato. Be sure to visit Piazza Unità d’Italia, the town’s main square, where many little artisan shops are selling traditional Sicilian products.
Local traditions and events
Ispica’s calendar is full of cultural events and festivals. The most significant is the Feast of Santa Maria del Focallo, which takes place every August. It includes religious processions, local food and live music.
Another important time in Ispica is Easter. During Holy Week, the streets come alive with Easter processions. Finally, Festa di San Bartolomeo is held in late summer and is dedicated to the town’s patron saint.
Hiking and nature routes
The natural beauty surrounding Ispica offers plenty of reasons to visit. The local landscape blends Mediterranean vegetation, coastal scenery, and canyons, providing numerous activities for nature lovers.
One of the most popular hiking spots is Cava d’Ispica, as mentioned earlier. If you prefer coastal hikes, the trails near Santa Maria del Focallo are ideal. These paths run along the Mediterranean Sea, offering access to beaches and dunes.
For more outdoor exploration, the nearby Vendicari Nature Reserve, about 30 kilometres from Ispica, is a great option. Rich in biodiversity, it features marshes, salt pans, and hiking trails. Bird watchers will especially enjoy this area, where flamingos and herons are native. The reserve also houses some ancient ruins.
Where to eat and stay in Ispica
Dining in Ispica is a pure pleasure with all the traditional Sicilian ingredients. Try local favourites like pasta alla Norma, a pasta dish full of herbs, aubergine and ricotta. Arancini is another traditional food that is a crispy rice ball, usually stuffed with ragù, cheese or veggies. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to indulge in a cannoli, a crispy pastry full of sweet ricotta cheese.
When it comes to picking your accommodation in Ispica, there are a variety of options catering to different tastes and budgets. Sicily My Home offers a range of beautiful holiday rentals, from cosy apartments in the town’s centre to larger villas on the outskirts.
Visit Ispica
Ispica is truly a special place in Sicily and should not be missed. Its blend of history, natural beauty and Sicilian culture is something to be celebrated.
Don’t wait too long, plan your next holiday to Ispica with Sicily My Home and experience all that this charming town has to offer!
