Lava outcrops seem to be everywhere. The Catanese constructed many of their buildings and roads from this sombre, gray lava stone. The prevalence of palm trees bears witness to the hot, sunny climate. Sprawling out from the hectic central market area, the red-canopied stalls fill the adjoining narrow streets and alleyways. The market sells all varieties of seafood including tuna, swordfish, sabre fish, mussels and translucently-fresh prawns and squid.
Vendors also peddle meat, fruit, vegetables, cheese and nuts.
The labyrinthine layout and widespread haggling betray the market s Saracen influences and are more reminiscent of an Arab souk than a European market. Catania s Coastline Driving north along the coast from Catania towards Acireale, it s easy to appreciate the destructive effects of the huge earthquake which struck in 1693, just 24 years after Etna s great eruption. The tremor created a marked faultline in the landscape and elevated much of the surrounding area such that today Acireale sits high on a plateau some 160 meters above sea level. This is a region of beautiful coastline and lush vegetation. Known as La Timpa, many wealthy Catanese favor this coastline for their isolated villas.