Taormina Castle

The Arab-Norman Castle of Taormina, a 11th century Fortress, is a striking structure perched on the rocky peak of Monte Tauro at an elevation of 397 meters. Thanks to this elevated position, it is also called the Castle of the Four Panoramas, as from within its walls you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view: from the Ionian coast stretching north to the Strait of Messina and south to the valley of the Alcantara River and the slopes of Mount Etna. In the distance, one can also spot the urban area of Catania to the west, as well as the Peloritani mountain range. The Castle of Taormina is accessed via a scenic staircase carved into the rock, starting from the charming chapel of Madonna della Rocca. The fortress has a trapezoidal shape and features a tower that once served as a lookout post. The outer walls have been preserved to a height of over four meters, while the internal structures have mostly collapsed. Inside, visitors can still find a cistern used for collecting rainwater, an underground corridor for storing provisions and weapons, a fan-shaped staircase leading to the keep, and two fascinating caves to explore. Today, many of the castle’s architectural features can still be admired, and various activities are offered to visitors. Entrance to the Castle of Taormina requires a ticket, which grants a 50-minute visit for 10 euros. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket office or online via the dedicated section of the website:
www.castelloditaormina.it/biglietto-online
Upon presenting their ticket, paying visitors will receive from our staff:
An audio guide by QR code in nine languages, linked to the descriptive panels inside the Castle. This allows visitors not only to read the information on each panel but also to listen to the content by pressing the corresponding number on the audio guide. A detailed bilingual map of the Castle, which includes a 3D floor plan and highlights 21 points of interest to visit inside. Each point marked on the map corresponds to historical panels on-site, offering further insights into the Castle’s history and architecture;
Moreover, the Castle serves as a unique and atmospheric venue for private events—corporate functions, weddings, institutional events, photo shoots, and more—even during the off-season.