The Eternal City of Syracuse: A Traveler’s Guide

Syracuse is a historic city located on the east coast of the island of Sicily, Italy. With a population of around 125,000, it is the second largest city in Sicily after Catania.

One fascinating aspect of Syracuse is its role as a major center of Greek philosophy and science. The renowned mathematician and inventor Archimedes was born and lived in Syracuse, making groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that transformed the ancient world. One of the most renowned and influential philosophers of ancient Greece, Plato visited this great city several times and wanted to establish a “philosopher-king” regime in Syracuse, advising the tyrant Dionysius the Elder.

While not a native of Syracuse, the famous Roman orator and statesman Cicero spent time in the city during the 1st century BC. He praised the intellectual culture and rich history of Syracuse in his writings, describing it as “the greatest and most beautiful of the Greek cities.”

Beyond its intellectual legacy, Syracuse was an economic powerhouse in the ancient Mediterranean. Its strategic location on the coast of Sicily made it an important trading hub, and the surrounding agricultural lands were tremendously productive. The city minted its own currency and became renowned for its export of grains, olives, and wines.

Syracuse was founded in 734 BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and became the dominant power of Magna Graecia, the Greek colonies in southern Italy. At its peak in the 5th century BC, Syracuse was one of the largest cities in the Mediterranean world.

After being conquered by the Romans, Syracuse continued to be an important cultural and economic center. It was later occupied by the Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.

Syracuse is a true treasure trove for history and architecture enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of ancient ruins, medieval landmarks, and Baroque masterpieces. Wandering through the city’s winding streets and grand piazzas, you will be transported back in time, surrounded by the ghosts of Syracuse’s storied past.

Here are some of the most interesting and popular destinations to check out while visiting Syracuse.

At the heart of the city lies the magnificent Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to some of the finest and best-preserved Greco-Roman monuments outside of mainland Greece. The crown jewel of the park is the immense Greek Theater, carved directly into the limestone hillside and capable of seating up to 15,000 spectators for dramatic performances and public assemblies.

Nearby, the equally impressive Roman Amphitheater stands as a testament to Syracuse’s place as a major center of power during the imperial era. The amphitheater’s remarkably intact seating areas and underground tunnels offer a vivid glimpse into the spectacles and events that once took place here, from bloody gladiatorial contests to elaborate stage productions.

Beyond these two iconic monuments, the Archaeological Park of Neapolis is home to a wealth of other ancient Greek and Roman ruins that provide invaluable insight into the daily life and culture of Syracuse’s inhabitants. The Latomie del Paradiso, a series of vast limestone quarries, offer a sobering reminder of the backbreaking labor that went into constructing the city’s architectural wonders. Nearby, the Altar of Hiero II, a massive sacrificial altar dating to the 3rd century BC, stands as a testament to the religious practices and rituals that were central to ancient Greek society.

Another notable ancient site within the archaeological park is the Ear of Dionysius, a massive limestone cave. This cave is renowned for its incredible acoustics – a phenomenon that has given it a storied history. According to legend, the tyrannical ruler Dionysius I of Syracuse used the cave’s sound-amplifying properties to eavesdrop on his imprisoned enemies. When you step inside, you can see how even the slightest sound echoes and reverberates off the limestone walls. It was interesting to learn that the name of the cave was given by the renowned Italian painter Caravaggio.

The historic center of Syracuse, known as Ortygia, is a true architectural gem. Delicately balanced on a tiny island connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Ortygia’s winding lanes are lined with an exceptional collection of Baroque palaces, churches, and public buildings. Piazza Duomo is the undisputed centerpiece, home to the magnificent Syracuse Cathedral.

The Syracuse Cathedral is an incredible architectural marvel, built right on top of the foundations of an ancient Greek temple – the Temple of Athena. When I first saw the cathedral on the map, I was confused because it was labeled as the site of the old temple. But once I stepped inside, the amazing history of the place became clear.

The cathedral’s facade blends elements of Baroque architecture with the sturdy, fortified walls of the original Greek temple, which was constructed in the 5th century BC. It’s breathtaking to see how these two vastly different eras of Syracuse’s past have been seamlessly combined. This cathedral is unlike anything else I’ve seen.

Nearby, the Fountain of Arethusa is another iconic Ortygia landmark, its gushing freshwater springs believed in ancient times to be the place where the nymph Arethusa emerged from the underworld. Strolling along the island’s seaside promenade, visitors can admire the stunning Baroque architecture that lines the harbor, including the imposing Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco and the Chiesa di San Giuseppe.

Another interesting spot is Maniace Castle. Built in the 13th century by Frederick II of Sicily, this imposing castle sits on a small islet off the coast of Ortygia Island. Once a prison, it now houses a museum with arms and armor exhibits telling Syracuse’s medieval history. A bridge connects it to the historic center, making it easily accessible on foot.

Belvedere Fort offers panoramic views of the city, its seaport and the Ionian Sea, this hilltop fort is the best place to watch sunsets over Syracuse. The fortifications date back to the 16th century Spanish rule.

Just across the harbor bridge lies the Museo Archeologico Regionale “Paolo Orsi,” one of the finest archaeological museums in all of Italy. Here, visitors can marvel at the extraordinary collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts uncovered from sites across Syracuse and the surrounding region.

Beyond Syracuse’s vibrant city center, there are other ancient wonders to discover. About 8 kilometers north of the city is the Necropolis of Pantalica – an extraordinary archaeological site with over 5,000 rock-cut tombs dating back to the 13th-7th centuries BC. Wandering through this vast ancient cemetery, you can almost feel the presence of the people who lived here long ago. The meticulously preserved burial chambers, some with intricate carvings, offer a glimpse into the customs and beliefs of these early Sicilian civilizations. It’s a humbling and awe-inspiring place that connects you directly to the distant past.

No visit to Syracuse would be complete without exploring the city’s magnificent natural landscapes. The Ciane River and its adjacent papyrus groves, for instance, offer a serene oasis just minutes from the bustling city center. Visitors can take a peaceful boat ride along the river, surrounded by the lush, vibrant green of the indigenous papyrus plants – a rare sight outside of Egypt. Farther afield, the Riserva Naturale Orientata Saline di Priolo, a protected nature reserve, is home to a stunning array of bird species and a remarkable salt marsh landscape. Here, visitors can witness the ancient practice of salt harvesting, which has been carried out in the area for centuries.

Syracuse offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some good hotels in the historic center of Ortygia island include Hotel des Etrangers and Hotel Gutkowski, both with charming interiors and central locations. For a more luxurious stay, try Hotel Villa Politi located in a 19th century villa.

Mid-range options near the archaeological sites include Albergo San Giorgio and Hotel Roma. For budget travelers, try Ostello della Gioventù or Domus Mariae Guest House located close to the bus station. There are lots of B&Bs available in the city, with the majority being within walking distance to the main city center attractions. Apartments are also available for rent on Airbnb if you want more space and a kitchen. Be sure to book in advance during peak summer season.

Syracuse boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a wide variety of acclaimed restaurants serving up an impressive range of dishes. From fresh, locally-sourced seafood to succulent steaks and both traditional Sicilian fare as well as modern international cuisines, the city’s dining options are truly impressive.

Among the standouts are two restaurants that have earned Michelin stars, as well as several others that have received Michelin guide distinctions. During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at one of these Michelin-recommended establishments – Don Camillo. It proved to be an exceptional choice, as we were thoroughly impressed by the creativity and quality of the cuisine.

One of the highlights of our meal was the tasting menu, which artfully combined seafood delicacies with game meats, showcasing the chef’s impressive culinary talents. A particularly memorable dish was the “liquid arancina” – a deconstructed version of the beloved Sicilian street food classic, the fried rice ball. The inventive presentation and flavors were simply sublime.

Beyond the innovative dishes, the restaurant also boasts an excellent wine selection that perfectly complemented our meal. Overall, our experience at Don Camillo was truly memorable and we wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Syracuse.

If you have more time, there are plenty of activities near Syracuse. Just a short drive away is the town of Noto, known for its beautifully preserved Baroque architecture. Wandering through Noto’s historic center, you’ll be amazed by the intricate facades and grand churches that exemplify this classic Italian architectural style. The Cathedral of Noto is a particular highlight, with an ornate façade considered one of the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque.

Further inland, the town of Ragusa is divided into two distinct parts – the older, hilltop Ragusa Ibla and the more modern Ragusa Superiore. Exploring the narrow, winding streets of Ragusa Ibla is like stepping back in time, with ancient palaces, churches, and scenic viewpoints around every corner. This UNESCO World Heritage site is especially charming in the evenings, when the warm lighting adds to the town’s magical atmosphere.

Another nearby destination worth visiting is Modica, renowned for its centuries-old chocolate-making traditions. Stroll through Modica’s historic center, popping into family-run chocolate shops to sample the rich, gritty Modicana variety – a unique confection with Aztec and Spanish influences. While in Modica, be sure to admire the town’s stunning Baroque churches as well.

For those interested in shopping, the Sicilia Outlet Village offers a great opportunity to find designer goods at discounted prices. Located just outside of Syracuse, this large outlet mall features a wide range of high-end Italian and international brands, including a sizable Gucci outlet.

Nature lovers can visit the Vendicari Nature Reserve.  Some of the main activities and attractions in the Vendicari Reserve include:

• Beaches – The reserve has beautiful beaches with fine, light sand, as well as rocky shores and salt water lagoons. Popular beaches include Eloro, Marianelli, Calamosche, and Vendicari beach
• Birdwatching – The Vendicari wetlands are an important stopover for migratory birds like pink flamingos, storks, and herons traveling between Africa and Northern Europe. It’s a prime birdwatching spot.
• Hiking/Trekking – There are interconnected walking paths along the coast that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes over the course of a day. Hikers can see the Mediterranean vegetation, including rushes, dwarf palms, lentisk, and myrtle.
• Archaeological Sites – The reserve contains Byzantine archaeological sites like the Cittadella Maccari, a 6th century village, and the Trigona, a Byzantine structure with an opening to let in moonlight.

I hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan an amazing trip to explore the historic city of Syracuse and its surroundings. Let me know if you need any other recommendations or assistance during your visit. Buon viaggio!