As wedding photographers based in Italy, Ben and I have had the incredible privilege of capturing love stories against some of the most breathtaking backdrops imaginable. Today, we’re thrilled to share with you our top three wedding venues in Catania, Sicily. Each of these locations holds a special place in our hearts, not just for their stunning beauty, but for the magical moments we’ve witnessed within their walls and gardens.
Nestled in the charming town of Aci Castello, Casa Delle Terre Forti is a venue that never fails to take our breath away. As we drive up to this ancient Sicilian house, we’re always struck by its perfect positioning between Mount Etna and one of the world’s most beautiful bays. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur meets timeless elegance, creating a backdrop that’s nothing short of magical for your special day.
One of our favorite spots at Casa Delle Terre Forti is the park. Picture this: you’re exchanging vows under a floral arch, surrounded by lush greenery and your closest friends and family. The natural beauty of this space provides an organic, romantic setting that translates beautifully in photographs. We’ve captured countless tender moments here, with the warm Sicilian sun casting a golden glow over the newlyweds.
If you’re looking for that ‘wow’ factor, the terrace at Casa Delle Terre Forti delivers in spades. Every time we step out onto this space, we’re struck by the panoramic views of the bay. It’s a spot that never fails to elicit gasps of awe from wedding guests, and it provides a stunning backdrop for those all-important couple portraits. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the water, we’ve captured some of our most breathtaking shots here.
For indoor celebrations, the salon at Casa Delle Terre Forti is a dream. The warm wood tones, elegant Persian carpets, and refined details create an atmosphere of understated luxury. As photographers, we love the way the light plays in this space, allowing us to capture intimate moments filled with warmth and sophistication.
The greenhouse is a unique feature that we always encourage couples to utilize. It’s perfect for those quieter moments during the day – perhaps a stolen kiss or a moment of reflection amidst the festivities. The natural light that floods this space is a photographer’s dream, allowing us to capture beautifully lit, intimate shots.
The flexibility of the White Room and the Dependance allows for creative setups that cater to each couple’s unique vision. Whether it’s a civil ceremony or an intimate gathering, these spaces provide a blank canvas for your dreams to take shape.
When we first laid eyes on Palazzo Biscari, we felt as though we’d stepped into a fairytale. Located in the heart of historic Catania, this venue is a testament to the city’s rich baroque heritage. As wedding photographers, we’re always in awe of the storytelling opportunities this palace provides.
The moment you step into Palazzo Biscari, you’re transported to another era. The frescoed halls and refined private rooms offer a sense of grandeur that’s hard to match. We’ve found that couples who choose this venue are often drawn to its rich history and the romantic notion of following in the footsteps of nobility.
The ballrooms at Palazzo Biscari are truly spectacular. Spanning about 500 square meters, these spaces are adorned with intricate Rococo and Baroque details that make for stunning photographic backdrops. We particularly love capturing wide shots that showcase the grand scale of these rooms, juxtaposed with intimate moments between the newlyweds.
One of our favorite spots for couple portraits is the famous balcony of Palazzo Biscari. It offers a unique vantage point over Catania and creates truly memorable images. We often encourage couples to take a moment here, away from the festivities, to soak in the view and their new status as newlyweds.
As we move through the palazzo, from the Green Room with its beautiful terracotta floor to the Red Room with its family portraits, we’re always struck by the sense of history surrounding us. The Hall “dell’Orchestra” is a particular favorite, with its Rococo design and clever architectural features like the hidden musician’s gallery.
For couples seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern elegance, Holiday Club is our go-to recommendation. This venue offers versatility that we, as photographers, absolutely adore.
The park at Holiday Club, with its swimming pool and lush tropical plants, is a dream location for outdoor celebrations. We’ve captured some truly magical moments here, with couples exchanging vows against a backdrop of blue skies and even bluer waters. The natural light in this space is phenomenal, allowing us to create bright, airy images that radiate joy and romance.
One of the most spectacular features of Holiday Club is its terrace overlooking the sea. We always encourage couples to consider this space for their ceremony or cocktail hour. The combination of lush greenery and endless blue horizons creates a sensory experience that translates beautifully into photographs.
While we adore the outdoor spaces at Holiday Club, the indoor hall is equally impressive. Its modern, refined furnishings provide a sophisticated backdrop for more formal affairs. We love the flexibility this space offers, easily transitioning from a ceremony setting to a dynamic reception area.
As photographers, we’re not just capturing images – we’re documenting experiences. The in-house catering at Holiday Club, led by their talented chef, always impresses. We’ve captured countless moments of pure culinary delight, from the artistic presentation of dishes to the joy on guests’ faces as they savor each bite.
Cheack out our favorites in these other great cities:
Bari
Naples
Rome
Florence
Bologna
Genoa
Turin
Milan
As we reflect on these three stunning venues – Casa Delle Terre Forti, Palazzo Biscari, and Holiday Club – we’re reminded of why we fell in love with wedding photography in Catania. Each location offers its own unique charm and endless possibilities for creating unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Casa Delle Terre Forti, the historical grandeur of Palazzo Biscari, or the natural beauty of Holiday Club, Catania has a perfect venue for every couple’s vision.
We hope this guide has inspired you and provided valuable insights as you plan your special day. Remember, choosing the right venue is just the beginning. As photographers, our job is to capture the love, joy, and unique personality of your celebration, whatever backdrop you choose.
We can’t wait to hear which of these magical places speaks to your heart. And when the time comes, Ben and I would be honored to be there, cameras in hand, ready to document every beautiful moment of your Catanian love story.
Oct 16, 2024