Discover Syracuse: History by the Sea
Visit Syracuse for living layers of Mediterranean history, sun‑drenched harbour life and seafood that proves Sicily’s culinary force.
Walk Ortigia’s stone lanes to the Duomo — a cathedral built into the Temple of Athena — and pause at Fonte Aretusa for papyrus‑fringed views. In the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, climb the Teatro Greco, explore the Roman amphitheatre and feel the cavernous echo of the Ear of Dionysius.
From the quay, take a boat to the Plemmirio marine reserve or follow fishermen’s nets at the Mercato di Ortigia to taste swordfish, octopus and morning granita. Visit in spring or autumn for gentle light; start at dawn to beat the heat and combine the archaeological park ticket with a guided boat trip for the best experience.
Syracuse Cathedral is literally built around a Greek temple: the 5th‑century BCE Temple of Athena’s Doric columns still form the nave and can be seen along the church’s north side.
Ancient & Sacred Syracuse
Start with the answer: Syracuse’s past is best explored on foot and underground. Begin at Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi , where arranged galleries make sense of Sicily’s prehistoric, Greek and Roman layers. Nearby, the atmospheric Catacomba di San Giovanni reveals early Christian burials and frescoed crypts; tours include VR and require sensible shoes. For a concentrated art moment, drop coins to illuminate Caravaggio at Santuario di Santa Lucia al Sepolcro . Climb the ruins of Balza Akradina for skyline views and cyclopean walls. Finally, for contrast and modern faith architecture, visit the circular concrete landmark of the Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime . Together these sites give a clear, compact route through Syracuse’s religious and civic history.
The Plemmirio Marine Protected Area—designated on 15 September 2004—safeguards 2,429 hectares of sea and 14,348 metres of coastline just south of Ortigia.
Taste of Syracuse
Start with the answer: eating in Syracuse is an active lesson in local culture. Learn hands-on cooking at Sicilian Cooking Class & Catering – Chef Maria Rita Siracusa , where family stories and views come with every dish. If you prefer pizza, the convivial Giropizza Home Experience teaches dough, toppings and oven timing in a relaxed home setting. For guided market meals and private dinners, book Angelo Ingrassia Chef & Travel Sicily , who pairs storytelling with rooftop suppers. Between classes, browse for ingredients at the eclectic S&S food centre or pick up specialty snacks at Ochili Mini Market . These options make good use of short days and small markets—plan one hands-on session and one market stop per stay.
Under its PGI rules, Limone di Siracusa IGP bans post‑harvest waxes and synthetic fungicides, so certified lemons have edible peel—useful for grating or preserving.
Stay, Shop & Move
Start with the answer: choose a base that keeps you close to Ortigia and practical needs. Stay in a restored villa with garden calm at Dimora Archimedea , or pick the quietly residential B&B Zenzero e Limone for spotless rooms and a generous breakfast. For provisioning, the large SuperConveniente offers free parking and broad stock, while the well organised In Coop is ideal for fresh produce and deli finds. When you want to explore beyond the centre, book routes and rentals with Maremonti Tours - Bike tours & bike rental —they fit luggage needs and suggest scenic coastal rides. These five choices cover comfort, food logistics and mobility.
Classical drama has been staged in Syracuse’s Greek Theatre since 1914, a tradition stewarded today by Fondazione INDA.