Called Xiphonia byGreeks, Acireale was called Aci in the period of roman conquest, but the creation of the first lived place goes back to 1330, when settled down there few families that ran away from the conquest of Angioini and then from the earthquake that caused the eruption of Etna.
It became a real city in XV century becoming one of the most important centres of the territory. But we cannot forget its mythical roots in the love story betweenthe nymphGalatea and the shepherd Aci, killed by the Cyclop Polifemo for jealousy and then transformed by Giove in a river in order to join again with his lover.
Attractions:
Public square Dome
It is the main public square of the city. It was constructed after the violent earthquake of 1693. Splendid example of sicilian baroque, it was called "The 5 di oro", because in the center there was a circular theater box that gave the impression to be similar to the card used for game.
Square of the Cathedral
Its construction goes back to XVI century and was ended in 1889. The front is baroque and inside we can find plasters andpictorial decoration that goes back to XVIII and XIX century. The chapel, of XV century, safeguards the relics of the patronof Acireale, Saint Venera, brought in procession in july the 26 th of every year.
The theatre of the Pupi's Opera
The old art of puppets, that move a marionette on a stage thanks to the hand and the voice of the "puparo", show the talesof Carlo Magno and his kinghts. Still today we can admire these performances during holydays and events.
Thermal baths
In ancient time sulphureous waters were used by Greeks and Romans. In the middle ages were attributed to these waters miraculous properties thanks to the blood of Saint Venera.Today their are used with therapeutical aim.
Picture gallery and library Zelantea
Erected in 1915, the picture gallery guards paintings, designs, sculptures, archaeological discoveries, coins and interesting others relics of the sicialian past. In the same structure is situated the Zelantea Library , one of the most important in Sicily, founded in 1671.Timetables of opening: h 9,30-12,30/16,30-19,30 Free
The Complex of Venera Saint
Situated in Aci Catena, the Complex of Venera Saint includes thermal baths of Roman-imperial age that exploited sulphureous waters, and the ancient church of Venera Saint pertaining to the medieval period.
Timetables of opening: from monday to friday h 9-13,30 Closed the festive days Rates: € 1,00
Natural resources
Natural Reserve of the Timpa
The city is builton a plateau of volcanic origin called Timpa, situated 34 meters of height. This area was born from the overlapping of eruptice layers of many periods.
Typical Products
Acireale cooking is tipycal on the sicilian tradition. Among pasta we can mention la pasta cc'a muddica (with the crumb) la pasta cc'u trunzu ( with cabbages). Among sweets , sweets with almonds, crushed ice drink of nougat and Ice creams with cream, fruit and chocolate.
Festivities and events
Saint Sebastiano 20 January
The statue of the saint is brought by its devout people though every street and goes back to the church in the night.
Saint Venera 26 July
The Carnival
The Carnival of Acireale is considered the most beautiful carnival of Sicily, and boasts an ancient tradition that goes back to XVI century. The allegorical carts that parade through the city streets, are prepared during the course of the year from skilled craftsmen, that compete in order to obtain the prize of “King of the Carnival”. Fireworks, music and dances accompany the parade . Among the Allegorical carts, parade the flowered Wagons, adorned with beautiful flowers.
Regions to visit 
