Property for Sale in Ragusa, Sicily
Ragusa is the capital of the Province of Ragusa in south-eastern Sicily, one of the late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto rebuilt after the earthquake of 1693 and now listed by UNESCO. Its property ranges from inexpensive flats in the old centre to farmhouses in the limestone countryside.
The Town and Its Surroundings
The town is in two parts: the upper town, laid out on a grid after the earthquake, and Ragusa Ibla, the older quarter on a spur below, with the domed cathedral of San Giorgio, palaces with carved balconies and the Giardino Ibleo. The two are linked by long flights of steps and winding roads.
The surrounding plateau is crossed by dry-stone walls, with carob and olive trees, and is home to the cattle that produce Ragusano cheese. The coast at Marina di Ragusa is a short drive south, and the Baroque town of Scicli lies to the south-east.
Property for Sale in Ragusa
The listings include apartments and houses in the historic centre, a historic villa and country homes with land. Prices are broad: some flats in the old town sell for well under €50,000, while restored farmhouses and rural complexes with land are priced in the hundreds of thousands.
Everyday Life and Getting There
As a provincial capital, Ragusa has a hospital, schools, supermarkets and markets. Comiso airport is the closest, though flights are limited, and most visitors use Catania airport, with a wider network. The roads to Catania and Syracuse are the main links, and train services are slow, so a car is useful.
Buying in Ragusa
South-eastern Sicily is a high seismic zone, so check the structure and any certification of past works, especially in old town houses. Mains water can be intermittent, so a tank is useful. Inherited homes may have several co-owners. A geometra who knows the province can verify title, the cadastral plans and the building permits before you commit.