The Roman Villa & Caltagirone
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General Information
Discover the Timeless Elegance of Sicily’s Roman and Baroque Treasures
Nestled in the heart of Sicily lies a journey through centuries of extraordinary artistry, culture, and architecture. From the grandeur of the Roman Villa del Casale near Piazza Armerina to the hilltop charm of Caltagirone, this region offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s layered past — a past sculpted by emperors, artisans, and ancient traditions.
A recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Villa del Casale is one of the most remarkable examples of late Imperial period luxury. This vast Roman villa, hidden for centuries beneath the soil, reveals an opulent lifestyle through its awe-inspiring collection of ancient Roman mosaics. Spanning over 3,500 square meters, the villa's exceptional decorative mosaics depict intricate mythological and hunting scenes, capturing both everyday life and fantastical legends with stunning realism. These images, laid stone by stone by master mosaicists, form one of the greatest legacies of Roman artistic heritage preserved anywhere in the world.
Traveling onward through the rolling Sicilian countryside, one arrives at Caltagirone, another jewel in Sicily’s cultural crown and a proud UNESCO Baroque town. Known internationally as the historic ceramics capital, Caltagirone’s soul lies in its vibrant, handcrafted Sicilian majolica. The town itself is a living canvas — an open-air museum where history is glazed in color. The iconic ceramic staircase, the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, rises majestically through the old town, each step adorned with unique tiles telling stories of Sicilian folklore, nature, and history.
Visitors strolling through the narrow streets discover bustling artisan ceramic workshops, where age-old techniques are passed down from generation to generation. From the scent of kiln-fired clay to the delicate brushstrokes of floral patterns, these workshops embody Sicily’s enduring cultural traditions.
Throughout this region, beauty is not just seen — it is experienced. Whether exploring ancient ruins or admiring panoramic views from a Baroque balcony, each moment is enriched by the island’s deep-rooted authenticity. Engaging with English-speaking chauffeurs or a private driver in Sicily can offer deeper local insights, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the landscape with comfort and elegance. These professionals provide more than just door-to-door transport — they ensure a hassle-free experience, transforming a simple day of sightseeing into a memorable discovery.
By choosing tailored tours, visitors gain access to a more personalized itinerary, one that adapts to their pace and curiosity. With professional service and optional guided sightseeing, the journey becomes more than a visit — it becomes a living narrative woven through Sicily’s storied hills.
In this extraordinary corner of the Mediterranean, time seems to fold into itself. The past breathes through mosaics and majolica, stone and color — waiting for those who seek not just to see, but to feel the timeless spirit of Sicily.
About the tour
Our tour focuses on timeless elegance, cultural depth, and scenic discovery — a full-day (max 8 hours) private excursion through the heart of Sicily, led by an experienced English-speaking driver.
Villa Romana del Casale: A Window into Roman Splendor
After breakfast, your driver will meet you for a scenic drive to Piazza Armerina, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Villa Romana del Casale — an extraordinary Roman estate that once belonged to a powerful aristocratic family.
This luxurious Roman villa, buried for centuries beneath the soil and now beautifully preserved, offers an immersive journey through Roman mythology, architecture, and daily life in the late Imperial period. With over 4000 square meters of original marble mosaics, the site boasts the most extensive and best-preserved in situ Roman mosaics in the world.
Walk through more than 40 mosaic-decorated rooms, including the famous “Ten Girls in Bikinis”, and admire mythological and hunting scenes that reveal the refined elegance of 4th-century aristocracy.
“The Villa del Casale is a hidden masterpiece — a silent empire of marble and color, telling ancient stories with every step.”
Please note: this is a very popular destination and early reservations are strongly encouraged to ensure availability.
Caltagirone: Sicily’s Living Canvas
In the afternoon, the journey continues toward Caltagirone, a UNESCO-listed Baroque town renowned as the historic ceramics capital of Sicily. The name alone evokes images of vibrant colors and glazed artistry, shaped lovingly into handmade Sicilian majolica.
Begin your visit with a stroll through the public gardens, where the town’s polychrome majolica makes its first charming appearance. Then ascend the town’s iconic ceramic staircase — the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte — a spectacular flight of 142 steps, each one uniquely decorated with handcrafted tiles illustrating centuries of Sicilian culture.
As you wander the alleyways and admire Baroque facades and noble palaces, you'll feel the rhythm of a town where craftsmanship and beauty are a way of life. Curious travelers may also visit a local ceramic workshop or a handmade terracotta Nativity scene by a local artist.
“Caltagirone is not just a town — it's an open-air museum where every step tells a story in color, clay, and tradition.”
A Day of Discovery with Comfort and Elegance
Throughout the day, your English-speaking chauffeur will ensure a comfortable, elegant, and enriching journey, offering insights into the landscape, history, and local culture. With door-to-door transport and tailored flexibility, this tour is ideal for travelers looking to explore Sicily’s artistic heritage without the rush of group travel or the rigidity of fixed timetables.
Let history unfold in color and stone — from the mosaics of the Roman Empire to the majolica of Caltagirone. This is Sicily at its most vivid.
Historical informations
How much time should I plan for visiting the Villa Romana del Casale?
Expect to spend around 2–3 hours at the villa itself, allowing for time to admire the mosaics, read informational panels, and take photos. If you like to take things slowly or are very interested in the mosaics, budget 3 hours.
Is Villa Romana del Casale worth it?
Absolutely. The villa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its extraordinary Roman mosaics—considered the finest preserved in the Roman world—depicting mythological scenes, daily life, games, and more over 3,500m². Visitors consistently rate it as one of Sicily’s, and even Italy's, most impressive historical sites. It offers a unique, vivid window into late Roman aristocratic life.
Can I buy tickets in advance or is it better to purchase on site?
You can only buy tickets at the counter. While queues are usually not long, especially outside peak hours, pre-booking online is recommended (but possible only through agencies) during high season or weekends to skip waiting and secure your spot quickly. Entry is sometimes free or discounted on certain days for specific categories.
Is the site accessible for people with mobility limitations?
Villa Romana del Casale offers partial accessibility. Around 50% of the site is accessible to those with disabilities or mobility challenges, with adapted tours and services available, including wheelchair-friendly vans and accessible restrooms. There are ramps and accessible routes, but some areas have stairs or uneven surfaces. For the visually impaired, visitor apps and audio guides enhance access.
What are the photo and sightseeing highlights inside the villa?
- Highlights include:
- The Great Hunt mosaic (massive and detailed hunting scene).
- The iconic Bikini Girls (female athletes in action).
- Mythological scenes (Hercules, Orpheus, Cupid games).
- Vivid animal mosaics—lions, tigers, exotic birds, and more.
- Elaborate geometric and figurative mosaics in every room, viewable from raised walkways.
- Every room offers unique photo ops—look for storytelling mosaics, intricate patterns, and restored architectural details.
What is the best time of day or year to visit?
- Time of Year: Visit spring (April–June) or early autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Time of Day: Visit early morning (before 10am) or late afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid crowds and tour bus groups. The mosaics may photograph best with natural daylight in the morning or late afternoon.
Is it easy to combine Villa del Casale with Caltagirone or other towns in one day?
- Yes, it is very doable. The two towns are about 30–40 minutes by car apart. Many tours offer a combined visit—it’s common to spend 2–3 hours at the Villa, have lunch, then visit Caltagirone’s town center in the afternoon. Expect a 6–8 hour day including travel time. Renting a car or hiring a chauffeur streamlines the trip.
What can I expect in Caltagirone? What makes it special?
- Caltagirone is Sicily’s ceramics capital and a UNESCO baroque town. Expect to see:
- The iconic Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte—a staircase of 142 steps, each with unique ceramic tiles.
- Numerous artisan ceramic workshops and galleries.
- The vibrant Cathedral of San Giuliano.
- Moor's Head ceramics, unique ornaments, and traditional Baroque architecture.
- Local food, Sicilian granita, and colorful street scenes.
Are there recommended workshops or local experiences in Caltagirone?
- Yes. Caltagirone offers hands-on pottery and ceramics workshops in local artisan studios, lasting from 45 minutes to a half day. You can try shaping, glazing, and decorating your own ceramic piece, guided by expert craftspeople. Some popular options include:
- Verus Ceramiche, CEAR Ceramiche, Bottega Varsallona, Opera Prima, and others.
- Workshops can be booked in advance, are suitable for individuals, families, or small groups, and sometimes include guided town tours.
What's included
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