Noto, Sicily. . . . . . . .

May 10, 2017 - Port of Pozzallo, Sicily.

Some photos from Noto which, quite simply, is the apotheosis of Baroque
 town planning and architecture. Completely destroyed in the terrible1693
 earthquake, it was rebuilt from scratch on a new site about 10km from the old city.

A picturesque city, it is located on the terraced slopes of Mount Iblei among

 olive groves and almond trees. One can spy carved brilliance around its
baked pale vanilla walls, and on almost every corner stands a beautiful
church.

The idea was to create a linear, perfectly proportioned urban center whose parallel

lines would provide myriad panoramas. The town was divided into three parts by

 three roads running from east to west, thus ensuring the constant attention of

the sun. At the top lived the nobility, in the middle the clergy, and at the bottom the 

"hoi polloi" - the ordinary people.

The main building material used was local compact limestone, a substance that 

seemingly absorbs the sun's rays and transforms them into a soft golden-honeyed

glow. The effect is quite breathtaking.

 Tourist activity in Noto is simply to wander around the beautiful narrow streets, 

admiring the golden-colored stone buildings, lovely facades and
 balconies. . . . . .perhaps throw in a little window shopping, then

find a shady spot for a coffee, a pizza, or my favorite. . . . . . . 
a bowl of delicious gelato!

The sad times of life. . . . . . . . .

Sometimes life is incredibly cruel and one has to pause and question.

Just a week ago, strolling through the Baroque town of Noto, Sicily,

 completely destroyed by the terrible 1693 earthquake, and then rebuilt, 

I found my name carved into an ancient wall. 

Today I pray parents find their lost children, can speak their names,

 and hold them close.