Syracuse Travel Guide
First City of Sicily
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Located in a beautiful position, on the east coast of Sicily, Syracuse sits between the waters of the Great Port - the only natural harbour to be found along the Sicilian coast - and the Iblei mountains. A city of amazing culture and history, Syracuse is unsurpassed for its ancient architecture.
Founded by Greek settlers in the 8th century, Syracuse became the largest and most powerful city in Sicily. Captured by the Romans in 212 BC it declined but continued to be the capital and first city of Sicily. It lost its capital status to Palermo after a siege in AD 878, which led to the city being under Muslim rule for two centuries, until 1038 when the city was re-conquered by the Byzantine Empire.
Today, Syracuse and the old town centre of the city, Ortigia, has been appointed as UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must for anyone visiting Sicily.
Attractions in Syracuse
Castello Maniace, an impressive fortification standing on the tip of Ortigia Island, guards one of Syracuse's two ports from the southeast; the views across the sea from here are superb.
Considered one of Italy's most beautiful piazzas, Piazza del Duomo, is home to the city’s ancient and splendid Duomo. The old town on Ortigia island is a compact area of small, narrow streets, ideal for exploring and the outdoor market here is one of the most amazing places with fresh fish, vegetables and fruits available.
The extraordinary ruined Temple of Apollo dates from around 565 BC and is probably the oldest Greek temple in Sicily and the Neapolis archaeological park is =, perhaps, the city's crown jewel.
Activities in Syracuse
Take a day or two to explore the most important architectural and cultural sights of the city or sample the many outdoor activities that the island has to offer such as cycling, hiking, scuba diving and sailing.
Relaxing
Spend a pleasant day wandering round the old town of Ortigia or have a leisurely lunch, sampling the wonderful specialities, in the city’s many restaurants.
Getting Around
Walking is the easiest way to get around Ortigia island. To get around the rest of the city, electrical bicycles and scooters can be rented.
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