Don't miss the opportunity to visit the iconic and one-of-a-kind Timeo Hotel as it marks its 150th anniversary since its establishment in 2024. This is a significant occasion for Taormina and all of Sicily.
How did Taormina become accessible to the world? The image depicts a section of the original hotel in Taormina. Its origins date back to 1850, when Francesco La Floresta, a local resident, sold his extensive citrus orchard and acquired the remains adjacent to the ancient Greek theater. He renovated the property and transformed it into a hotel.
Only a few travelers started staying here, some of them occasionally hiking up the mountain to reach this small village.
Back then, the locals, fishermen, and peasants considered such investments to be irrational, which led to Francesco being nicknamed "Don Ciccu 'u pazzu," meaning crazy Don Ciccio. However, he remained steadfast in his belief that his endeavors would be successful, and luck would eventually be on his side. This proved to be true in 1863 when Otto Gehling arrived in Taormina and, captivated by the scenery, began painting the picturesque views surrounding him: the snow-capped Mount Etna contrasting with the blossoming almond trees, the enchanting bay of the ancient Greek town of Giardini Naxos, and the stunning coastline of the Ionian Sea.
At the esteemed Paris exhibition, Gehling exhibited all these paintings. Numerous artists who viewed the artworks were skeptical about the possibility of almond trees blooming simultaneously with snow falling on the mountains. Gehling then proposed a wager to them: they could visit the location and verify for themselves, and if the scenario was not as described, he would reimburse all their travel expenses.
Therefore, in the spring of 1964, Don Ciccio organized a grand reception for his esteemed guests at the behest of Heleng, where they witnessed firsthand the stunning beauty of Taormina. This event marked the renaming of the hotel after Andramakh's son, the city's founder on Mount Tao. Over the years, both the hotel and Taormina itself have expanded significantly, transforming into a renowned international tourist destination.
Thirteen years later, despite being ridiculed, Don's unconventional idea brought fame to the city, attracting numerous tourists who now enjoy visiting it. Individuals from around the globe have the chance to witness this beauty. This illustrates the importance of believing in oneself and one's endeavors!
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