During my recent road trip in Sicily, I had the opportunity to visit one of the cities reputed to be one of the most beautiful on the island: Syracuse. A city where we only spent a short day, a bit short for visit Syracuse like it should be. If you plan to visit Syracuse I advise you to spend a night there, it will allow you to spend an evening there.
A day spent visiting Syracuse, a day that passed quickly but enough to write you today an article on things to do and see in Syracuse.
A maritime city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Syracuse stretches along the Ionian coast and breathes a most peaceful poetic atmosphere. Historical monuments that transport tyrants back to the time, a preserved environment rich in typically Mediterranean flora and fauna: the rival of Athens and Carthage has countless assets that will charm you instantly.
If you want to visit Syracuse in one day, note that it is possible to book a city tour from Catania but also from Taormina.
Summary:> Visit Syracuse: the history of the city
> What to do in Syracuse: the island of Ortigia
> Neapolis Archaeological Park: the must-see in Syracuse
> Catacombes de San Giovanni
> What to do around Syracuse?
> Where to sleep in Syracuse?
> My opinion my visit to Syracuse
Visit Syracuse: the history of the city
Syracuse is particularly known for its role in Antiquity when it was considered one of the most beautiful cities of Ancient Greece. It was the Greeks who founded this city in the XNUMXth century BC. The history of this city was eventful. Until the XNUMXth century BC Syracuse was one of the most powerful and prosperous cities in all of Sicily but also in Greece. There followed three centuries animated by many wars, in particular the Punic wars which opposed the Carthaginians, based in North Africa, to the Romans based in the Italian boot. It was during these wars that one of Syracuse's most famous characters appeared, Archimedes, who played an important role in the Punic Wars. Syracuse still has vestiges of its Greek history today.
It is in -212 that the Romans seize the city, killing, at the same time, Archimedes. The city remains in the hands of the Romans until the 1542th century, then was conquered, among others, by the Muslims and the Normans. In addition to the invasions, the city was also destroyed several times by earthquakes, notably in 1693 and XNUMX. Let's go now visit Syracuse !
Guided tour of Syracuse
Let me tell you about the guided tour of Syracuse. Normally I'm not really a fan of this kind of visit. However, it could be a wise choice to visit Syracuse. If you are only visiting Syracuse for one day and you don't want to miss anything of the city, a 3-hour guided tour could be a good thing to learn a little more about the city and its history. Indeed, in Syracuse, it is above all the history of the city that is fascinating. It would be a shame to visit Syracuse without being able to really understand the importance of the city and its role in history.
These guided tours have the advantage of also being in French. They last three hours and make you discover the main things to see in Syracuse.
What to do in Syracuse: the island of Ortigia
The city of Syracuse, like many cities, is made up of a historic center and a more modern city. The historic center of Syracuse is based on an island, the island of Ortigia. I advise you to start the visit by this small island. This island is not very big, about 1 km long and 500 meters wide. It is accessible via three bridges. I think that to best appreciate this island, its beauty and its architectural richness, it is enough simply to walk there, to survey its alleys, its places, and even if it is difficult to get lost there, try everything the same!
Connected to the rest of the city by the Ponte Nuovo, the island comes alive with colorful boats and shows what the real dolce vita is. How not to be pleasantly surprised by the calm that reigns there? Mostly forbidden to vehicles, Ortigia offers the feeling of stepping back millennia.
The narrow streets all have traces of ancient civilizations, from palaces to mythological fountains like the one at Aretusa.
The buildings evoking ancient Greece will accompany you until the Renaissance, as many periods which contributed to the splendor of Syracuse. To discover the city in the Middle Ages, a visit to the Maniace castle imposes itself. This medieval building that juts out into the sea was built to face the invasion of the Arabs in 1038.
Also discover the small port of Syracuse located just before the island of Ortigia.
The Temple of Apollo
Located in Ortigia, the temple of Apollo is the oldest of Greek civilization. It was founded during the first half of the 6th century and today only ruins remain. However, we can see a few sections of wall and tall sandstone columns, which go around the building. Little frequented by tourists, it allows you to easily project yourself into the past... and to imagine everything that these old stones may have known, from the Corinthian colonists to the Sicily expedition mounted by Athens, passing through the Punic wars . The Temple of Apollo is a must see in Syracuse.
The place of the Duomo
Surrounded by baroque white stone palaces, this huge square is one of the most beautiful in Italy for the harmony of its architecture. In particular, you can contemplate the Palazzo Beneventano and its large interior courtyard, the town hall, the Palazzo Arcivescovile and its high arcades and the Duomo. This ancient temple, erected in honor of Athena in the 5th century BC, was later transformed into a cathedral to offer a sumptuous mix of styles. The square is one of the most beautiful places in the city, you cannot miss it during your visit to Syracuse.
Neapolis Archaeological Park: the must-do in Syracuse
Let us now move away from the old town of Syracuse, walk a few hundred meters to the northwest, towards the modern one to reach an unmissable place to visit Syracuse, its archaeological park. Syracuse has, in fact, many vestiges of Greek and Roman civilizations. Visiting Syracuse obviously means visiting its Greco-Roman archaeological park, one of the city's treasures.
Pay attention to the opening hours of the park. In high season the park is open every day from 9 a.m. to 18 p.m. In low season the hours are limited, the park closes around 16 p.m. and some parts are only open in the morning depending on the day.
The price to visit the archaeological park of Neapolis is 8 euros.
The archaeological park is divided into several parts. First across from this park, across the road is the archaeological museum of Syracuse. Admission will cost you 8 euros for the museum alone or 13,50 euros for the museum + the archaeological park.
Let's cross the road again to visit the archaeological park of Neapolis. This includes several Greek and Roman monuments. The most famous of these is, of course, the 15-seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Greek world, 000 meters in diameter. The theater is still used during the summer and performances still take place there. Unfortunately access to the theater was closed during our visit.
Another important monument of this site, the Roman Amphitheatre. Impressive in its dimensions and elliptical shape, it could accommodate 20 spectators.
Walking through the park you will also have the opportunity to see the Ear of Dionysius, a cave that has become famous thanks to its acoustic qualities.
Things to see in Syracuse: The Catacombs of San Giovanni
The ruins of the Basilica of San Giovanni Evangelista rise above the crypt of Saint Marcian, one of the first martyrs of Syracuse. All around, Byzantine catacombs were carved out of limestone rock between the 4th and 6th centuries. These underground excavations are organized in a rectilinear axis, from which leave vast galleries. The walls are decorated with arcosolium tombs, in other words niches surmounted by an arch, which creates an atmosphere that is both mystical and fascinating.
What to do around Syracuse?
If you are visiting Sicily on a road trip, then visiting Syracuse will only be part of your journey. On your way from or towards your next stop, there are a few places to discover around Syracuse.
Orientata Cava Grande del Cassibile Nature Reserve
Less than an hour's drive south of Syracuse is a wild setting, ideal for hiking. This wide and deep fault, crossed by a river with multiple natural basins, is one of the highlights of Sicilian prehistory. During your excursion to the Cava Grande Gorge, you can explore numerous cave-necropolises dating back to the Paleolithic era and admire a magnificent panorama of the entire canyon, with Etna in the background.
Visit Pantalica from Syracuse
A few tens of kilometers from Syracuse is Pantalica, a natural park which contains a treasure straight from prehistory: a rocky necropolis. Hundreds of graves dig into the rock. Excursions are planned from Syracuse.
The beaches of the Marine Park of Plemmirio and Calamosche
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches near Syracuse, Calamosche seduces with its transparent waters and fine sand. If you are looking for a change of scenery, you will be satisfied, especially since the ambient calm allows you to relax in peace. Not far from there, in the marine park of Plemmirio, small wild creeks bathed in crystal clear water invite you to relax. The setting is idyllic and out of season, the impression of being cut off from the rest of the world is total!
Where to sleep in Syracuse?
With its ancient remains, its national parks and its friendly atmosphere, Syracuse is the guarantee of a stay full of emotions. For these few days to live up to your expectations, it seems essential to take the time to choose your accommodation in Syracuse. Where to sleep in Syracuse is a matter not to be taken lightly. To do this, you can go to the cozycozy website, which will find the accommodation you need by searching on many online accommodation booking platforms.
Sleep in Ortigia:
Sleeping in Ortygia seems sensible, because not only are the prices not higher than in the rest of the city, but the environment is also much more pleasant. It is here that most of the historical monuments are concentrated. Full of charm during the day, the island is even more so in the evening, when the alleys light up and begin to vibrate to the sound of the musicians who enliven the terraces of the traditional restaurants. Whether you are a party animal or you are looking for calm, you have come to the right place, with a significant bonus: that of waking up with a sublime view of the sea.
If you are looking for a hotel in Ortigia, here are some recommendations:
- La Via della Giudecca: A highly rated hotel full of charm located in the heart of the island of Ortigia. A magnificent roof top will allow you to contemplate the island and enjoy a beautiful view of the sea. The hotel offers very affordable rates with a price for a double room at 70€.
Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel: The Algilà Ortigia hotel is a 4-star hotel ideally located on the island of Ortygia. Located just a few meters from the sea, you can enjoy a magnificent terrace or eat with a breathtaking view of the sea. Take advantage of the hotel's many services and facilities, such as its spa!
- Antico Hotel Roma 1880: Also located in the heart of the island of Ortygia, this 4-star hotel has incredible charm. It is located in a very pleasant little square. The hotel offers rooms for 1 to 4 people.
Sleeping in Neapolis:
Nevertheless, it would be a shame to limit oneself to Ortigia. Indeed, the Neapolis district is the place to be if you dream of literally plunging into ancient Syracuse. A real oasis in the city, the place is quiet day and night and gives you direct access to all the unmissable remains. Altar of Hieron II, Roman theater and amphitheater, necropolis, stone quarries known as Latomies including the vertiginous Ear of Dionysius 23 meters high are all places that you can easily reach.
To sleep in Tyche, Epipoli or Achradina:
Are you planning to visit the Paolo Orsi Archeology Museum? Then opt for the district of Tyche, not far from the archaeological park of Neapolis and the picturesque porto piccolo which remain easily accessible on foot. Epipoli, with its fortified walls, is also an ideal neighborhood if you want a complete immersion in old Syracuse. But to discover the modern face of the city, you can sleep in Achradina. You will enjoy its trendy establishments and can even go shopping.
My opinion my visit to Syracuse
Syracuse is, for me, an essential stage of a trip to Sicily. The many monuments that are in this city testify to the glorious past of the city. Built by the Greeks and influenced by the many civilizations that later took over the city, such as the Romans, Arabs, Normans or even Byzantines, the city offers incomparable architecture. The island of Ortigia bears witness to this. If you are passing through Sicily, do not hesitate and take a tour of this city. There is enough to do in Syracuse for two days of visit.
