Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa, is an island rich in stories and possessing an unmistakable character of its own. It is a place where every stone carries a history, from the grandeur of ancient Greece to the elegance of the Baroque. A walk here is a journey through time, past mythical springs, ingenious inventions, and vibrant markets, where the echoes of the past seamlessly merge with the bustling present.
Architecture: A Mosaic of Centuries
Piazza del Duomo forms the radiant center of Ortigia, a square that breathes the grandeur of 18th-century Syracuse. Surrounded by ornate Baroque facades with curling balconies and sculpted angels, the square sparkles in the sunlight, while children play carefree on the smooth stones. It is a place where the city's architectural splendor truly comes into its own.
Inside the Cathedral of Syracuse, which adjoins this square, you literally feel history beneath your feet and above your head. Greek columns are ingeniously incorporated into the Christian nave, a unique testament to the city's layered history. Light falls through the Baroque ceiling onto ancient stones, a fusion of eras rarely so visible. It is a place that makes the depth of Sicilian history tangible.
Nearby, and partly integrated into later structures, you will find the remains of the Temple of Athena. The sunlight illuminates the ancient stones and reveals subtle details: look closely and you will see Athena's owl, a symbol of wisdom, above the columns. Here you feel the power of the goddess who once watched over this place, a silent witness to a bygone era.
The massive columns of the Temple of Apollo, also known as the Apollonion, still stand proudly among the ruins. They bear witness to the strength of ancient Syracuse, which has endured centuries of storms and conquests. Among these imposing remains, you feel the energy of the city as it once was, an important Greek colony with a rich culture.
Myths, Genius, and the Taste of Sicily
In another square, water splashes in the Fountain of Diana, where the goddess proudly towers above the fountain. Around her unfolds a dramatic scene of pursuit and enchantment, with the nymph Arethusa and the river god Alpheus (Alfeo) caught in eternal motion. It is a lively artwork that depicts one of Syracuse's most beloved myths.
Not far from there, clear water bubbles up from the rock at the Arethusa Spring. This place is special because of the swaying papyrus plants that grow here, a rarity in Europe. Ducks peacefully float among the greenery, and the soft rustling of the water transports you back to antiquity, to the time of myths and legends.
Syracuse is also the birthplace of Archimedes, the city's most famous son, whose statue you will find in the city. With a look full of curiosity and genius, he stands there, and at his feet lies a spiral-shaped object – his famous screw, used to raise water. It is a tribute to one of history's greatest thinkers.
Behind a stately facade lies the Archbishop's Palace, where bishops governed the city for centuries. Notice the sculpted coats of arms above the gate and the quiet courtyard full of lemon trees, an oasis of calm in the lively city. It offers a glimpse into the administrative history of Siracusa.
The old market of Ortigia and the Mercato buzz with life, a feast for the senses. Here you smell fresh herbs and hear the hawking of Sicilian olives. The scent of oranges and lemons still hangs in the air, a reminder of the time when crates full of citrus fruits were shipped from here across Europe, straight from the Sicilian sun. It is the place to taste the authentic flavors of Sicily.
The maritime history of Syracuse comes to life in the Sirmuma, the Museum of the Sea. A large wooden ship's rudder above the door invites you to step inside, where you smell the salt of old nets and hear stories of sailors and storms. The museum tells the story of the deep bond Syracuse has always had with the Mediterranean Sea.
This is just a glimpse of the wonders Siracusa has to offer. The full walk through this historic city reveals many more hidden details, fascinating stories, and unexpected discoveries that bring the rich history and culture of Ortigia to life. Follow in the footsteps of history and let yourself be guided by the unique atmosphere of this Sicilian jewel. Discover the complete route and all the secrets of Siracusa with the CityWalkGems app.
- 11 stops
- ~3,5 km route length
- ~906 m longest stretch
- about 1,5–2 h duration
- Paid