Marina di Ragusa

Events in our life are now described as before the lightning strike or after the lightning strike!  Guess that is what is meant by a "life defining event".  Pre- lightning strike we had planned to spend the winter in Ragusa, Sicily.  The marina there is a popular spot for spending the winter (among sailors that is) and at that time we needed to be in Italy as we were attempting to obtain Italian residency

Church of San Giacoma

In reserving a berth for the winter we were required to pay a deposit.  And then the lightning strike...  So we did not make it to Marina di Ragusa but it was past the time for a refund of the deposit regardless of the circumstances.  Rather the Marina said they would give us a "voucher" good through 2023.  So we decided to use that voucher and hang out in Ragusa for a little while.

Old Monastery

We have been traveling for a bit so needed to do some cleaning, change the oil on the engine, do some laundry and grocery shopping.  That all took a few days and then we rented a car and went out to do some sight seeing.  The actual town of Ragusa (both the old part and newer part are about a 30 minute drive from the coast but so worth the drive.  In particular, Ragusa Ilba is stunning.  Winding roads with multiple hairpin turns lead you to the mountaintop where Ragusa Ilba sits overlooking the Valley Irminio below.  Italy has such an old soul and nothing reflects that better than the ancient cathedrals.

Valley Irminio

The Valley

Probably the most notable cathedral in Ragusa is the Duomo di San Giorgio.  Another UNESCO world heritage site due to its baroque architecture.  Sadly, the church was closed up and we did not get to peek inside.  You can walk down just about any street and run into one stunning cathedral after another.

Duomo di San Giorgio

Ragusa Ilba is a prime example of Baroque architecture which is prominently displayed in the balcony supports throughout the old city as well as many cathedrals.  These stone carved supports are so animated and expressive.  

Baroque balcony supports

 It was a very nice day away from the boat for awhile.  Although Italians are even worse drivers than Turks.  If they decide to pass a car they just do it... passing right between the car they are passing and the one coming towards them!!  Unbelievable.  I just had to close my eyes and pray that no one crashed.  So the trip was fun... the driving not so much.