Your Visit to Ragusa Ibla - the hillside capital of Sicily

Ragusa Ibla is the hillside capital of Sicily known for its narrow winding streets, charming staircases and architecture. It is the historic centre of the city of Ragusa.

Ragusa Ibla is one of the eight towns of the Val di Noto recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They were destroyed by an earthquake in 1693 and rebuilt during the period of late baroque architecture.

Driving and Parking

Ragusa Ibla is a 50-minute drive from Noto, if you take the autostrada or just over an hour if you take the scenic cross-country route. I recommend entering ‘Corso Don Minzoni, Ragusa Ibla’ into your navigation. On arrival follow Corso Don Minzoni to the bottom of the hill as the road curves around to the right and becomes ‘Via Avvocato G Ottaviano’ there is a small free car park. If there is no parking left continue along Via Avvocato G Ottaviano where there is roadside parking.

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The Narrow Streets of Ragusa Ibla

Begin your exploration of Ragusa Ibla by walking up Corso Don Minzoni on the opposite side of the road. As you walk you will come across a staircase on the left with a narrow low arch at the top with the number ‘51’ on the far wall. Walk up the stairs remembering to duck at the top and maybe get some fun photographs holding up the roof!

Turn right along what is Via Giuseppe Giusti and when you reach the end there are a choice of streets. Walk along the smaller street Via Aquila Svena. Turn left onto Via Scalazza and then right onto Via Loppolo, right onto Via Giulia. At the end turn right and immediately left onto Via Tenente Di Stefano which becomes Via Cap Bocchieri. A helpful sign confirms you are on the right track.

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The Cathedral of Ragusa Ibla

As you walk up the street you will see the main cathedral of Saint George begin to come into view. Near the top on the left you will see Duomo (Cathedral in Italian), the two Michelin Star restaurant of Chef Ciccio Sultano. As you enter the main square look immediately to the right to see the Cathedral of Saint George (Duomo San Giorgio).

Ragusa Ibla's Cathedral Square

The Cathedral Square (Duomo Piazza), is a full of cafes, restaurants and shops. You may wish to stop here for a little refreshment and a mouch. When you are ready continue to walk down the Piazza Duomo which becomes Corso XXV Aprile enjoying the buildings and shops as you go.

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The Gardens of Ragusa Ibla

Walk this street to the Gardens of Ibla (Giardina Ibleo). As you reach the end of the gardens there are majestic views down the valley.

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The Last Staircase

When you have finished exploring and are ready to return to your car I recommend walking along Via Torrenuova. Look out for a staircase on the left that slopes down the hill and follow those steps all the way down to Via Avvocato G Ottaviano and then besides the river back to your car.

Enjoy your visit to Ragusa Ibla; the hillside capital of Sicily!