Amphitheater ruins in the forefront of Mount Etna, Sicily, Italy 04 Mar 2017

Posted on 04 Mar 2017
The ruins of the amphitheater on background Etna at sunset
The ruins of the amphitheater on background Etna at sunset
The ruins of the amphitheater on background Etna at sunset

About this photo

The sun sets illuminating the white smoke which puffs out of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. Mount Etna is the tallest active volcano in Europe and with almost constant activity occurring it is considered the most active volcano in the world.

Ruins of the Taormina amphitheatre lay in the forefront. It remains unknown if the theatre was built by the Romans or the Greeks. Popular opinion is that it was built by the Greeks and extended by the Romans. The layout mimics Greek theatre design and the Taormina stone bricks used to build the structure are common of ancient Greek building technique.

Attacks during various wars saw the demolition of a ten-metre long section of the structure (the area actors used to perform) so you can now look over the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. It is still used for dramatic performances and the ‘Taormina Arte’ festival is held here every summer displaying cinema, theatre, ballet and music productions.

Insight Guides' local experts can help you discover the best sights, smells and tastes of Sicily on a tailor-made tour of the island: simply submit a trip request today and we'll take care of the rest. 

About photographer

Natalia Paklina/Shutterstock