Called Tauromenion it was built by Greek colonists from Naxos after the destruction of their own town. From that period we can still see the fabulous theatre which was subsequently rebuilt by the Romans.

Modern Taormina is a refined centre built on Monte Tauro and sits snugly between rocky slopes and the smooth Ionian Sea, not forgetting the lush beaches of Mazzarò, Lido Spisone and Mazzeo.

Taormina can claim to be the most celebrated tourist resort in the whole of Sicily. It first attracted travellers in the 18th century by offering accommodation following the suppression of the religious guilds in 1866.

But its name really took off in 1868 when Prussian Baron Ottone Geleng was inspired by Goethe to see this corner of Italy for himself.

The Baron spent his time painting and his work was soon exhibited in Paris. Taormina then became a magnet for Europe's elite.

Another stroke of good fortune was an outbreak of cholera in Palermo which encouraged the nobility of the city to take refuge in 1875. The sumptuous villas are a result of this period.

Modern Taormina should be taken in along "Corso Umberto" which winds its way from Porta Messina to Porta Cavea.

Visitors should linger and admire the fine shops. Look out for the top italian brands, as well as typical Sicilian products such as hand made ceramics, 'ferro battuto' or wrought iron and leather work.