The Home of
Saint Nicholas

The oldest part of Syracuse, the most "historic" historic center of the city, is actually... an island! Ortigia is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Many gods arise here monuments and the most important museums, as well as many small restaurants and clubs.

Il oldest Doric temple of all Sicily has been transformed, over the centuries, into a Byzantine church and an Arab mosque, a Norman church and even a Spanish barracks. It is located right in the center of Ortigia.

The Greek history of Syracuse always comes to the surface: like this, even the most important religious architecture of the city, the Cathedral, was in the past a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. It boasts one of the most beautiful Baroque and Rococo facades in Sicily.

During the Second World War the Syracusans dug a air raid shelter under the Duomo. The galleries, which also host temporary exhibitions, cross Ortigia like holes in a cheese wheel.

Arethusa was a nymph transformed by Artemis into a source to escape the god Alphaeus. The circular source of fresh water a few meters from the sea is one of the symbols of Syracuse, and green papyrus plants grow there.

The epic events of Charlemagne, Roland and the paladins are at the center of the Opera dei Pupi. Syracuse also has its theater a few steps from the Duomo. Also worth a visit is the Puparo's workshop and the Museum.

Built on extreme tip of the island of Ortigia by Emperor Frederick II of Swabia around 1200. Today a walk among the towers offers an incredible almost 360 degree view of the sea.

As evidence of the many cultures that passed through Neapolis, a partial Roman amphitheater could not be missing excavated in the hill. At the time of its splendor it was the largest Sicilian amphitheater.

A famous artificial cave, located in the Latomia del Paradiso. According to legend, it was dug by Dionysius: thanks to its particular shape, the tyrant secretly listened to the speeches of imprisoned enemies thanks to an exceptional acoustics.

Built in 5th century BC, the theater is today the center of Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse, and one of the most visited attractions in Sicily. It still hosts sublime classical performances today.

Among the largest European museums by extension. The route is divided on several floors:

• Ground floor: Medal collection (prestigious numismatic collection)
• First floor: Prehistory, Greek colonies and finds from Syracuse
• Second Floor: Hellenistic and Roman period, sarcophagus of Adelphia and Venus Landolina

It has no roof, and between the naves of this ancient Norman Gothic style church they grow bushes and palm trees. From the south side you can go down into the San Giovanni catacombs (the only catacomb complex open to the public in Syracuse).

An excellent choice for a trip to the sea. It is a beach of soft golden sand, in a small bay. They can be rented deck chairs and sunbeds and is located just 9 kilometers from the center of the city.

A real canyon excavated over millennia. The wild nature and the call of a good refreshing swim in one of the natural ponds are worth the trip. Arm yourself with water and trekking shoes!

The reserve is known for the birdwatching and for its pristine beaches. An excursion will take you through a fantastic landscape with archaeological remains and the magnificent Calamosche beach.

An imposing fortification work outside the center, between moats, corridors and underground rooms. Enjoys a unique position, which dominates all of Syracuse. The perfect place to wait for the sunset.