Syracuse is today one of the most visited cities in Sicily, of a disarming beauty, in the ancient world it was a city that held up to Athens for importance and charm.
With its beautiful beaches, its archaeological treasures, its inviting bars and open-air restaurants serving exquisite local cuisine, Syracuse encapsulates in itself all that has made Sicily a world-famous destination. This town boasts not only the presence of splendid archaeological sites dating back to the Greek and Roman periods, but also beautiful beaches where you can relax after a tour of the city. Among the must-see in Syracuse are: Piazza del Duomo, the Greek Theatre, Piazza Archimede and the Maniace Castle.
The real heart of Syracuse is the Island of Ortigia, a territory extended for just over a kilometer that represents the oldest part of the city. Ortigia is not a real island as it is connected to the mainland by Ponte Umbertino and Ponte Santa Lucia.
This area is considered an open-air museum for its archaeological and architectural heritage that goes from the temples of Greek times to buildings built during the fascist period, through the testimonies left by Aragonese and Arabs.
Ortigia is divided into small historic districts, it is the oldest area of the city of Syracuse that preserves sites such as the Cathedral, the Maniace Castle of Swabian-Norman age, the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, the Temple of Apollo dating back to the sixth century B.C. and the Temple of Athena.
The heart of Ortigia is Piazza di Archimede, a meeting place where you can admire the magnificent Artemide Fountain.