Every year, Taormina Film Festival brings together directors, actors, and film enthusiasts. This year, from July 12th to 19th, the festival not only attracts cinephiles but also tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of celebrities. The most eagerly awaited guest of the 2024 edition is Nicolas Cage, and who knows, you might just bump into him strolling through the luxurious boutiques of the historic center.
Moreover, those who visit Taormina during the festival will experience the city at its finest. Luxurious and picturesque, Taormina embodies Mediterranean charm and, in summer, offers stunning sunrises and breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea.
At this kermesse, cinema, culture, fashion, and entertainment come together on an exceptional stage: Teatro Antico. This ancient theater, a testament to Greek civilization in Sicily, serves as an evocative backdrop for the screenings.
Experience Taormina Film Festival
For those visiting Taormina during the Film Festival, the most enjoyable activity is probably spotting VIPs in the crowds along Corso Umberto I. Just a few years ago, for example, Nicole Kidman walked down the town’s main street, smiling at fans around her.
Film lovers can attend previews, but tickets must be purchased online in advance. Screenings will take place at both Palazzo dei Congressi and Teatro Antico, which will remain open to the public outside festival hours.
Teatro Antico is reserved for the Film Gala, concerts, and theatrical performances accompanying the films. Palazzo dei Congressi will host film workshops, documentaries, and feature films. The 2024 edition of the Taormina Film Festival, the 70th edition, is dedicated to Mediterranean filmmakers and includes a retrospective to explore Sicilian authors and filmmakers.
Not only cinema
Getting lost in the alleys of Taormina is almost a must for anyone visiting the town. Hidden along the sides of Corso Umberto I are viewpoints and ancient villas just waiting to be discovered.
One such gem is Villa Comunale with its gardens, built at the end of the 19th century by the Scottish noblewoman Lady Florence Trevelyan. Opened to the public in 1922, it is still considered the most beautiful park in Taormina. In addition to the great variety of flowers, the gardens also contain fountains, towers, and Victorian-style pavilions.
Palazzo Corvaja is just a few minutes’ walk from the Villa. Together with the Duomo, Piazza Badia, and Piazza Santa Caterina, it forms the heart of Taormina and is one of its most iconic landmarks. The building, which dates back to Arab times, was the seat of the Sicilian parliament in the Middle Ages and is renowned today for its collection of bas-reliefs and frescoes.
If you tire of exploring the ancient aristocratic palaces and the Greek theatre, the cable car outside Porta Messina takes you to Isola Bella in just three minutes. This island was also nurtured by Lady Trevelyan, who planted precious tropical shrubs. Over time, these have merged with the island’s Mediterranean vegetation to create a unique setting.
Taormina is always beautiful, but during the festival, it takes on a star appeal that Hollywood could hardly envy. Take advantage of the Taormina Film Festival to visit the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea.” Discover the accommodation available on our website.
Credit foto:
Teatro Antico: Foto di IPA/Fotogramma via SkyTG24
Nicole Kidman a Taormina: SUD Press
Villa Comunale di Taormina: Foto via CityMap
