Throwback time: Catania, Sicily

Ciao, Hive!
Today, I’m taking you to Catania, a city that holds a special place in my heart. Catania isn’t just about beautiful views and delicious food – it also has a personal connection for me, tied to my name and the history of this place.

A Personal Connection: The Basilica di Sant'Agata
I couldn’t visit Catania without stopping by the Basilica of St. Agatha, the patron saint of the city. My name is Agata, so this place is especially meaningful to me. The interior of the basilica, filled with Baroque details and history, is one of those places that really moves you. It’s worth not only admiring the exterior but also stepping inside to feel the special atmosphere.

Sicily – The Kingdom of Pistachios
Sicily is truly the kingdom of pistachios! In Catania and throughout Sicily, you can find so many dishes with pistachios, and not just desserts. From pizzas to pastas and even meatballs! Of course, I couldn’t miss out on the Sicilian pastries, which were filled with this unique ingredient.

A Taste of Catania: Must-Try Spots
Catania’s food scene is a real treat! You must visit Savia, one of the oldest and most iconic cafés in the city. It’s the perfect place to try granita, a traditional Italian dessert that’s refreshing on hot days. At Savia, you can also enjoy delicious Sicilian pastries and sip a cup of coffee in front of beautiful park and fountain.

Street Food at the Market: A Colorful Feast
I’m a huge fan of street food, and in Catania, I had to visit one of the most famous markets, where the stalls are decorated with colorful umbrellas. The market is alive with smells and sounds – from arancini (fried rice balls) to fried seafood. It’s a true feast for the senses!

🏖️ A Quick Trip to Taormina – A Stunning Gem by the Sea
After spending a three days in Catania, I decided to take a trip to Taormina, one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily, perched on a hill with a breathtaking view of the sea and Mount Etna. You can go there by train, it takes about an hour as I remember. Taormina is also a town rich in history and tradition – perfect for romantic walks and relaxing moments.

Fun Fact: Hotel from "The White Lotus"
For fans of the series "The White Lotus", I have to mention that part of the action in season two took place at the San Domenico Palace Hotel in Taormina! It’s a luxurious hotel with a sea view, which in the show played a role in the dramatic events. For fans of the series, it’s a fantastic opportunity to feel like you’re part of the show!

But what I love most about Catania is, of course… Sicilian sweets! 😍

Recipe Time: Ocho di Bue – Sicilian Jam-Filled Cookies
One of my favorite sweet memories from Catania is Ocho di Bue – cookies that pair perfectly with a cup of espresso.

Ingredients:
250g flour
100g powdered sugar
125g butter
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder

Pistachio paste or your favorite jam

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1️⃣ Mix the flour, powdered sugar, and baking powder.
2️⃣ Add the butter and rub it in until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3️⃣ Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, and knead into a smooth dough.
4️⃣ Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
5️⃣ Roll out the dough and cut out circles – make holes in half of them.
6️⃣ Bake for 12-15 minutes at 180°C. Once cooled, spread paste or jam on the full cookies and top them with the ones with holes.
7️⃣ Dust with powdered sugar and… enjoy!

Let’s Connect: The 36 Questions Experiment
Now, here’s something interactive for you! Have you heard of Dr. Arthur Aron’s 36 Questions Experiment?

Dr. Aron, a psychologist from Stony Brook University, conducted a study where two strangers asked each other 36 personal questions about their experiences and dreams. At the end of the experiment, many participants felt an emotional connection, and some even fell in love! I would love to introduce all of you to take part in this experiment in comments. And today's question will be:

"If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, living or dead, who would it be?"

I think I would choose Tom Hanks. He seems like such a wonderful person with so many interesting things to share. His books are just as amazing as his roles in movies! I’d also love to ask him about his Fiat 126p (Maluch), the little car he received as a gift from Polish people – such a cool story! If you have not heard about this situation, you should definitely check.

What about you? Let me know in the comments!

💬 Final Thoughts
Sicily is an incredible place, full of contrasts, delicious food, and beautiful views. Catania, with its basilica, pistachios, and street food market, will stay in my memory for a long time. If you get the chance to visit, be sure to try local dishes with pistachios and feel the magic of this place for yourself! 🌟

Let me know in the comments if you’ve been to Sicily, what spots you recommend, or if you have any questions about my trip to Catania!