Ancient Noto and Gate of the Mountain, Noto
In 1692, a devastating earthquake struck, wreaking havoc and destruction upon the ancient city of Noto. Rather than embarking on the laborious task of rebuilding the fallen city, a decision was made to establish a new one, located approximately ten kilometers away. This new city is now recognized as the Baroque gem of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, nearly four centuries later, Ancient Noto, nestled atop a hilly outcrop nearby, remains concealed beneath the earth's embrace. It has earned the moniker "the Pompei of Sicily," as its remnants lie buried beneath layers of rubble, rock, and overgrown vegetation.
Despite the passage of centuries, it is still possible to explore the tranquil and evocative remnants of Ancient Noto. Its meager ruins have stirred the imaginations of writers, artists, photographers, and those seeking solace in its historical echoes. For those inclined to embark on a journey through history, Ancient Noto offers hiking opportunities, providing a sense of connection to the past and a serene escape from modern life.
One of the notable features of Ancient Noto is the Gate of the Mountain. This historic gate serves as the entry point to Monte Alveria and, like the city itself, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the past, as it has remained remarkably well-preserved through the ages.
The most convenient entry point was through the mountain gate's isthmus, where the formidable city fortifications remain prominently on display. Upon entering the park, you will proceed beneath the arch of this age-old gateway. Along the walls, you can still discern the vestiges of ancient embrasures and openings that once served the defenders. In proximity to the fortifications of the gate, remnants of chambers can still be found, likely utilized for storage and as guard quarters. Furthermore, a staircase has been preserved, providing access to the bastion for those who wish to take in the panoramic view from its vantage point.
Despite the passage of centuries, it is still possible to explore the tranquil and evocative remnants of Ancient Noto. Its meager ruins have stirred the imaginations of writers, artists, photographers, and those seeking solace in its historical echoes. For those inclined to embark on a journey through history, Ancient Noto offers hiking opportunities, providing a sense of connection to the past and a serene escape from modern life.
One of the notable features of Ancient Noto is the Gate of the Mountain. This historic gate serves as the entry point to Monte Alveria and, like the city itself, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the past, as it has remained remarkably well-preserved through the ages.
The most convenient entry point was through the mountain gate's isthmus, where the formidable city fortifications remain prominently on display. Upon entering the park, you will proceed beneath the arch of this age-old gateway. Along the walls, you can still discern the vestiges of ancient embrasures and openings that once served the defenders. In proximity to the fortifications of the gate, remnants of chambers can still be found, likely utilized for storage and as guard quarters. Furthermore, a staircase has been preserved, providing access to the bastion for those who wish to take in the panoramic view from its vantage point.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Noto. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Ancient Noto and Gate of the Mountain on Map
Sight Name: Ancient Noto and Gate of the Mountain
Sight Location: Noto, Italy (See walking tours in Noto)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Noto, Italy (See walking tours in Noto)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Noto, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Noto
Creating your own self-guided walk in Noto is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Archaeological Park of Ancient Noto Tour
The Archaeological Park of Ancient Noto encompasses several archaeological areas that broadly include Ancient Noto (Noto Antica) in the south and Necropolis in the North. The former area, especially on the side of of the Mountain Gate (Porta della Montagna), an imposing structure serving as an entrance to this historical city, is bounded by the imposing 16th-century walls that withstood... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Noto Introduction Walking Tour
Perched high on a plateau with a panoramic view of the Asinaro Valley, in the shadow of Mount Alveria, the city of Noto is renowned as the Baroque capital of Sicily.
The name "Noto" finds its roots in the ancient Greek word "Neaton," which is likely translated to "south". Later, it was Romanized as "Netum." The Romans granted this territory to Hiero II... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.9 Km or 0.6 Miles
The name "Noto" finds its roots in the ancient Greek word "Neaton," which is likely translated to "south". Later, it was Romanized as "Netum." The Romans granted this territory to Hiero II... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.9 Km or 0.6 Miles