‘Cyrano’: Unveiling the Filming Locations in Noto, Italy
Unlike many modern blockbusters, Cyrano—the romantic musical based on 17th-century writer Cyrano de Bergerac and starring Peter Dinklage—was shot entirely on location in Southern Italy. Historic private homes replaced sound stages, and the streets of golden Noto provided a stunning backdrop.
This film, directed by Joe Wright, symbolizes a blend of luck and beauty. The decision to film in Noto—a destination often referred to as Sicily’s ‘hidden gem’—stemmed from a search for Italy’s best cannolis. While filming, the cast and crew narrowly avoided an eruption from Mount Etna, and location scouts successfully found exquisite palazzos in great condition.
Interview with Production Designer Sarah Greenwood
We had the opportunity to speak with Sarah Greenwood, the production designer behind Cyrano, to gain insight into the filming locations and the delicious cannolis of Noto.
The cast and crew of Cyrano took over the streets of Noto to film much of the movie.
The Scouting Process: Discovering Noto
The scouting process was meticulous. Sarah shared, “We were very specific: we went there to go to Noto. I was scouting in Italy for another film when I heard about Noto and its renowned cannoli bakery.” Upon arriving, Sarah was captivated by Noto’s Baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status. “When I returned, I showed Joe [Wright] these photos and he immediately expressed an interest in using Noto for filming.”
The Cannoli of Noto
“All because of a cannoli,” Sarah recalled fondly. The cannoli shop is located just past the town hall—known for its exceptional quality, it quickly became a favorite of the crew. “During filming, the pandemic had shut the cannoli shop, but it remains the best in Sicily.”
Palazzo Castelluccio, which served as Roxanne’s apartment among other sets, is open to the public.
Utilizing Existing Buildings as Sets
Many beautiful existing structures were utilized for the film, including Roxanne’s apartment, found in the exquisite Palazzo Castelluccio. This privately owned palazzo, restored over the years, offered magnificent interiors that seamlessly blended with the film’s narrative.
Filming on Location: A Unified Setting
Shooting primarily in Noto was advantageous for the team: “We promised to film all in one location, and while we did use a few others, about 70% of the film was shot in Noto. This limitation actually sparked our creativity.” The welcoming locals provided open access to numerous venues and spaces, enhancing the filming experience.
Iconic Scenes in Catania and Mount Etna
While some scenes ventured into Catania’s grand Palazzo Biscari, which retained its historic aura, others captured the rugged beauty of Mount Etna. Notably, when filming scenes on Etna, unpredictable weather posed numerous challenges. As snow unexpectedly fell, the crew adapted on the fly, showcasing their resilience in the face of the elements.
Noto is landlocked, so the cast and crew relocated to Castello Maniace for the fort scenes.
Final Thought: The Allure of Noto
The Castello Maniace on Ortigia served as a setting for a musical number, emphasizing the stunning locations chosen for the film. This fort, steeped in history, seamlessly complemented the cinematic vision of Cyrano. As Noto reveals its charm and breathtaking views, it undoubtedly remains a jewel of Southern Italy.
‘Cyrano’ is a captivating musical experience, showcasing the splendor of Italy’s landscapes and the enchanting beauty of Noto.
