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Ragusa is a province
of whose territory is the least extended in comparison
to the other provinces in Sicily. However it is a
territory diverse in its nature and its particular
landscape, its traditions, the sea and its history make
of Ragusa a good expression of the finer characteristics
of the island.
Ragusa's origins date back to 15 c. B.C, and from this
date, its inhabitants have been closely bound to the
environment and peasant traditions reckoning, as from
the start, that there was no real possibility of
industrialising the area. The city's relationship with
the surrounding territory makes it possible to the
visitor to benefit from the tranquil tone of the city,
walking through ancient medieval routes, climbing and
descending stairways in a labyrinth that makes it
possible to discover marvellous urban settings with
considerable charm.
The earthquake of 1963, set off a new reconstruction of
Ragusa divided in two parts, these being, 'Upper Ragusa'
the city up on the highland and 'Ibla', the oldest part,
almost rebuilt along the old medieval layout.
It is recommended to begin the visiting tour from the
hearth of Ragusa, being Piazza Liberta` heading to Ponte
Nuovo to hence proceed in accordance to the city's
historic growth of Ragusa. An interesting stop is at the
archaeological Museum where in the first section, there
are displays of flint and volcanic stone tools, and
ceramic materials from necropolises
and villages from the Bronze Age. Whereas in the section
dedicated to Carmarina, there is information regarding
the recent excavations in the city. There is also
significant material concerning Roman and late-Roman
centres. Finally, the Baroque style prevails in the
shape of palaces, squares and flights of stairs in front
of the arresting churches and cathedrals.
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