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Syracusan pastry is a layered art, a sweet story that intertwines the dominions and cultures that have shaped Sicily. It's not just about recipes, but about rituals that mark festivities and daily life. From the ricotta of the Greeks to the honey and citrus of the Arabs, to the chocolate of the Spanish, every dessert is a page of history to be savored.

Granita: The Summer Breakfast Ritual

In Syracuse, granita is a serious matter, a creamy and velvety sorbet. The classic flavors not to be missed are lemon, with the fragrant acidity of the Syracuse Lemon PGI; almond, sweet and milky, often "stained" with a drop of coffee; and black mulberries, an intense and wild flavor. It must be enjoyed strictly with "brioscia col tuppo," a very soft brioche whose "tuppo" (top knot) is perfect for dipping. It's the breakfast of champions during the hot summer mornings.

Cannolo: The Emblem of Sicilian Identity

The secret to a perfect cannolo lies in the sacred contrast between the crunchy shell and the velvety cream. The shell, or "scorcia," is a wafer fried in lard, crispy and covered in bubbles. The cream is based on fresh sheep's ricotta, patiently sifted with sugar, and enriched with dark chocolate chips. The golden rule is express filling: a true cannolo is filled at the moment of ordering to preserve its fragrance. Beware of those already prepared in the display case.

Syracusan Cassata: Elegance and Simplicity

Forget the opulent Palermo cassata. The Syracusan version is more sober, a return to the essence. It is a cake made of soft sponge cake, soaked in a light syrup (often with maraschino), which encloses a generous heart of ricotta cream and chocolate chips. The whole is simply covered with a dusting of powdered sugar. It is a dessert that celebrates the sublime quality of the ingredients without the need for frills.

Almond Pastries: An Arab Heritage

The almond is the undisputed queen. Frutta Martorana, made from royal paste, is a masterpiece of mimesis: sweets shaped and hand-painted to resemble fruits and vegetables. The almond pastes, or "biscotti ricci," are soft pastries with a moist heart, an explosion of almond flavor. Finally, the 'Nzuddi are dry and crunchy biscuits, enriched with whole almonds and honey, typical of All Saints' Day, perfect for dipping in a passito wine.

Discovering the essence of Ortigia in a single day is a total immersion in almost three thousand years of history. This itinerary is designed not to miss any of its treasures, strolling leisurely through sun-drenched alleys and monumental squares.

Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): From the Temple to the Market, to the Baroque Heart

Start at the Temple of Apollo, whose monumental ruins welcome you at the entrance to the island. From there, dive into the lively and colorful Ortigia market: a sensory experience amidst the voices of the vendors (the famous "abbanniata"), the scents of citrus fruits, and the colors of fresh fish. Continue towards Piazza Archimede and its Fountain of Diana. From here, a short walk leads you to the magnificent Piazza Duomo. Enter the Cathedral to discover how a Greek temple dedicated to Athena was incorporated into a Christian church. End the morning in the nearby Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia to admire Caravaggio's masterpiece, the "Burial of Saint Lucy".

Afternoon (2:30 PM - 6:00 PM): Myths, Fortresses, and the Breath of the Sea

After a light lunch, perhaps a gourmet sandwich from the market, head to the Fountain of Arethusa, a place of unique poetry where fresh water springs just a few meters from the sea among lush papyrus plants. A walk along the Lungomare Alfeo is a must, with its breathtaking view of the Great Harbor. The path leads you to the extreme tip of the island, dominated by the imposing Maniace Castle, a superb fortress commissioned by Frederick II of Swabia. Visit its interior and walk on its ramparts to feel like the guardians of the ancient port.

Evening (from 6:00 PM onwards): The Magic of the Giudecca and the Sunset

As evening falls, explore the ancient Jewish quarter, the Giudecca, with its labyrinth of silent alleys and hidden courtyards. Here you can breathe an air of times gone by. End the day by returning to Lungomare Alfeo to enjoy an aperitif while the sun sets. For dinner, the island offers an endless choice of trattorias where you can taste fresh fish, the perfect ending to a memorable day.

Beneath the sunny streets of Syracuse lies a silent and fascinating world, an underground city that tells stories of faith, daily life, and refuge. This journey into the subsoil is a unique experience to understand the complex historical stratification of the city.

The Hypogeum of Piazza Duomo

Just below the main square of Ortigia winds a maze of galleries connecting the Cathedral to the Foro Italico area. Excavated in Greek times as a stone quarry, this hypogeum was used as an air-raid shelter during World War II. Walking through it means walking through cisterns, secret passages, and large halls that evoke centuries of history.

The Jewish Bath (Miqwè)

In the heart of the Giudecca, 18 meters deep, is one of the most important Jewish purification baths in Europe. Dating back to the 6th century, the Miqwè of Syracuse is a place of great spiritual suggestion, fed by pure spring water. Its discovery, which happened by chance, brought to light a fundamental piece of the history of the Syracusan Jewish community.

The Catacombs of San Giovanni

Just outside Ortigia, in the Akradina district, is the largest catacomb complex in Sicily after Rome's. The Catacombs of San Giovanni are a true city of the dead, with a network of main and secondary galleries (decumanus and cardo) from which thousands of loculi and private chapels (cubicula) open. The guided tour is a deep immersion into the life of the early Christian communities of Syracuse.

The squares of Syracuse are open-air stages where history, art, and daily life meet. Here is a selection of the five squares that, more than others, represent the soul of the city.

1. Piazza Duomo: It is not just a square; it is an embrace of white limestone and light. Considered one of the most beautiful baroque squares in Italy, it is a perfect ellipse surrounded by noble palaces, the Town Hall, and, above all, the magnificent Cathedral. By day it dazzles, at night it transforms into a magical and silent drawing room.
2. Piazza Archimede: The beating heart of Ortigia. This circular square is a compendium of the city's architectural history, with buildings ranging from Gothic to neoclassical. In the center, the Fountain of Diana, a work from 1907, depicts the myth of Arethusa transformed into a spring by the goddess to escape Alpheus.
3. Piazza della Minerva: Technically part of Piazza Duomo, this "little square" has its own precise identity. It is the long side of the Cathedral, where the mighty Doric columns of the temple of Athena are visible, embedded in the wall. Sitting at a table here is like drinking coffee inside 2500 years of history.
4. Piazza San Rocco: A small and authentic square in the heart of the Graziella district. Less monumental but incredibly lively, it is the perfect place to observe local life, with its shops, flowered balconies, and genuinely Syracusan atmosphere.
5. Largo Aretusa: More than a square, it is a terrace overlooking the Great Harbor. Here you will find the mythical Fountain of Arethusa. It is the place for the evening stroll, where you can enjoy an ice cream or an aperitif while admiring the boats and the city skyline, waiting for a spectacular sunset.

The Neapolis Archaeological Park is the heart of ancient Syracuse. Although its most famous monument is the Greek Theatre, the park holds other extraordinary treasures that deserve a thorough visit to understand the greatness of the city in Greek and Roman times.

The Greek Theatre

Carved directly into the rock of the Temenite hill, it is one of the largest and most important theaters of the ancient world. Even today, in spring, it hosts the cycle of classical performances, reviving the tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The view from the top of the cavea is simply spectacular.

The Roman Amphitheatre

Not far from the theater is the amphitheater from the Roman imperial era, used for gladiator fights. Elliptical in shape and of considerable size, it is largely carved into the rock. It is fascinating to note the structural and functional difference compared to the nearby theater, a symbol of the transition from Greek to Roman culture.

The Latomie del Paradiso and the Ear of Dionysius

The latomie are ancient stone quarries, also used as prisons. Today they are a lush and suggestive garden. Inside them opens the most famous cave: the Ear of Dionysius. 23 meters high, it owes its name to Caravaggio for its S-shape and, above all, for its extraordinary acoustics, which according to legend allowed the tyrant Dionysius to listen to the prisoners' conversations.

The Altar of Hieron II

What remains of this immense altar dedicated to Zeus Eleutherios is its rocky base, almost 200 meters long. It is estimated that up to 450 bulls could be sacrificed here simultaneously. Its monumental dimensions give an idea of the magnificence and power of Syracuse in the 3rd century BC.

More than just a bridge, the Ponte Umbertino is the monumental threshold that introduces the magic of Ortigia. Crossing it is not only a physical act but a symbolic passage from the modern city to the ancient heart of Syracuse. Built at the end of the nineteenth century, the bridge rests on pillars that plunge into a navigable canal, offering unique and memorable views.

A Stage on the Water

Stopping in the middle of the bridge means enjoying a privileged perspective. On one side, the view opens onto the Porto Piccolo, with its colorful boats moored and the historic Customs building. On the other side, you can admire the Porto Grande, an amphitheater of water that has seen Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ships pass by. It is the perfect place to take photographs, especially at dawn, when the light paints the sky and water, and at sunset, when the city lights begin to shine.

A Meeting Place

The Ponte Umbertino is a focal point of Syracusan life. It is a continuous flow of people: tourists entering Ortigia for the first time with eyes full of wonder, and Syracusans crossing it in their daily lives. On its banks are bars and restaurants that make it a lively place at all hours of the day and night. Crossing it on foot, slowly, is the first step to getting in tune with the rhythms and soul of the island.

Walking through Ortigia from its entrance to its farthest point is like leafing through a history book. This linear itinerary connects the two chronological and geographical extremes of the island: the oldest Greek temple and the superb medieval fortress, crossing two thousand years of history in just over a kilometer.

The Start: The Greek Origins

Our journey begins at the Temple of Apollo (6th century BC). Observing its imposing remains, transformed over the centuries into a Byzantine church, an Arab mosque, and Spanish barracks, immediately makes us understand the historical density of this place. From here, we enter the maze of streets that constituted the nucleus of the Greek polis.

The Heart of the Island: The Roman and Baroque Era

The path naturally leads us towards Piazza Duomo. Here history becomes even more complex. We admire how the Christian Cathedral has literally engulfed the Temple of Athena (5th century BC), leaving its columns visible. It is the perfect symbol of Syracuse's ability to transform and preserve its past. The baroque palaces surrounding the square tell of the rebirth after the earthquake of 1693.

The Goal: The Swabian Dominion

Continuing south, along the sea, the atmosphere changes. The alleys open onto sea views and the air becomes saltier. Our final destination is the Maniace Castle. Built by Frederick II of Swabia in the 13th century, this masterpiece of military architecture is a symbol of power and control. Crossing its portal means entering another world, a bastion that for centuries defended Syracuse from the sea. The view from its walls, which embraces the entire Great Harbor, is the perfect conclusion to this journey through time.

The devastating earthquake of 1693 razed much of eastern Sicily to the ground. But from that tragedy, an extraordinary season of reconstruction was born, which has given us the masterpieces of the Val di Noto Baroque, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Syracuse, and in particular Ortigia, was also transformed by this opulent, theatrical, and luminous style.

Piazza Duomo: The Epicenter of the Baroque

The starting point can only be Piazza Duomo. The facade of the Cathedral, the work of Andrea Palma, is a triumph of columns, statues, and movement. Opposite, the Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, with its scenographic courtyard, and next to it the Palazzo Vermexio (the Town Hall), which shows a curious fusion of Renaissance elements and Baroque decorations.

Churches and Monasteries

Not far away, the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia has an elegant facade and a bright interior, designed to enhance Caravaggio's canvas. Venturing into the alleys, you discover other gems such as the Church of the Jesuit College, with its imposing facade, and the Church of San Giuseppe, near the Giudecca district, with its characteristic staircase.

The Hidden Details: Balconies and Masks

But Syracusan Baroque is not just made of great monuments. The real discovery is to look up and admire the details of the noble palaces. Along Via della Maestranza or Via Vittorio Veneto, let yourself be surprised by the balcony brackets, carved with grotesque masks, putti, lions, and fantastic figures. Each balcony tells a story, a whim of the noble client, transforming a simple walk into a treasure hunt.

To savor the truest soul of Syracuse, there is no better place than its historic market. The Ortigia market, located near the Temple of Apollo, is an explosion of life, a sensory experience that captures the essence of Sicilian culture. It is not just a place to shop, but an open-air theater.

A Triumph of Colors and Scents

Walking among the stalls, you will be overwhelmed by the bright colors of seasonal fruit and vegetables: Pachino tomatoes, deep purple eggplants, fragrant lemons. The fish stalls display the catch of the day, with tuna, swordfish, and shrimp shining in the sun. You will smell the scent of spices, wild oregano, local cheeses like pecorino and fresh ricotta.

The Voices of the Market: The Abbanniata

What makes the market unique is the "abbanniata", the chanted call of the vendors advertising their goods. It is an ancient tradition, a kind of folk music that fills the air, mixing with the chatter of passers-by and the noise of wooden crates. It is the authentic sound of the city.

Street Food and Tastings

The market is not just for looking, but above all for tasting. Stop at one of the cheese shops to taste a sandwich with fresh mozzarella and local cold cuts. Let yourself be tempted by raw seafood, served on the spot with a squeeze of lemon. And don't miss the famous "coppi" of fried fish, the perfect street food for a tasty break. The market is the ideal place for an informal, flavorful, and unforgettable lunch.

The province of Syracuse is a land with an ancient winemaking vocation, where the sun, the sea, and a fertile soil give life to unique and characterful wines. A wine tour in this area is a wonderful way to discover the territory and its excellences.

Nero d'Avola: The Prince of Reds

The most famous grape variety is undoubtedly Nero d'Avola, which has its cradle right here, between Avola and Pachino. This red wine is known for its intense ruby color, aromas of ripe red fruit, spices, and licorice, and a warm, robust, and enveloping taste. It is perfect in combination with red meats, aged cheeses, and savory dishes of Sicilian cuisine.

Moscato di Siracusa: A Rare Pearl

Less known but of great value is the Moscato di Siracusa DOC, one of the oldest wines in Italy. It is a sweet, aromatic dessert wine with a golden color, with intense notes of apricot, candied citrus, and honey. Its production is limited to a very small area, making it a true oenological gem to seek out and taste.

Visiting the Wineries

Many wineries in the area, from the largest and most modern to family-run ones, offer guided tours and tastings. Visiting a winery means walking through the vineyards, discovering the secrets of winemaking, and finally, tasting the wines directly from the producer, often accompanied by typical local products. It is an experience that combines the pleasure of the palate with the beauty of the Sicilian rural landscape.

In Syracuse, street food is a serious matter. It is a quick, cheap, and delicious way to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of the island. Here is a guide to the unmissable specialties to enjoy while strolling through the alleys of Ortigia.

1. L'Arancino: The undisputed king. In Syracuse it is pointed, cone-shaped, to resemble Mount Etna. The classic version is with ragù, but there are also variants with butter (with ham and mozzarella) or more creative ones. Crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside.
2. The Market Sandwich: An institution. Go to the Ortigia market at Caseificio Borderi and ask for one of their sandwiches filled on the spot with fresh cheeses, cold cuts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a myriad of other ingredients. An experience more than just a sandwich.
3. The Cuoppo of Fried Fish: A paper cone full of freshly fried calamari, shrimp, and small fish. It is the taste of the sea in a take-away version, perfect to enjoy while walking along the seafront.
4. La Scaccia: Typical of the Ragusa area but also very common here. It is a kind of thin focaccia, folded over itself and filled in various ways, the most classic is with tomato sauce and caciocavallo cheese.
5. La Cipollina: A Catanese specialty adopted with love. It is a pastry filled with stewed onions, tomato sauce, and mozzarella. An irresistible sweet and sour flavor, ideal for breakfast or a snack.
6. La Vota Vota: A kind of thin and crispy calzone, cooked in a pan or in the oven. The traditional filling is based on wild vegetables (giri or asparagus) and sausage.
7. Granita with Brioche: The summer breakfast par excellence, but also a refreshing snack. In Syracuse it is creamy and dense. The classic flavors are lemon, almond, and coffee. The pairing with the "brioscia col tuppo" is mandatory.

As an island surrounded by the sea, Ortigia is the ideal place to enjoy cuisine based on the freshest fish. The offer is vast and suitable for all budgets, from family-run trattorias to more elegant restaurants. Here's how to navigate for a memorable culinary experience.

Hidden Trattorias

For an authentic experience, venture into the inner alleys. Here you will find small family-run trattorias where the menu changes daily based on the catch. Don't expect elaborate recipes, but the pure essence of flavor: spaghetti with clams, fish soup, sarde a beccafico, and grilled swordfish. The atmosphere is informal and the prices are honest.

Seaside Restaurants

If you are looking for a more romantic atmosphere, the restaurants on Lungomare Alfeo and Foro Italico are the perfect choice. Many have terraces and outdoor seating with a spectacular view of the Great Harbor. Here the cuisine is often more refined, with raw seafood, tartare, and recipes that reinterpret tradition with a modern twist. Dining here at sunset is an experience not to be missed.

Tips for Choosing

How to recognize the right place? A good clue is a short menu, a sign that they work with fresh daily products. Beware of places with "touts" and overly touristy photo menus. Another good rule is to observe where the locals go to eat. Finally, do not hesitate to ask for the "catch of the day" and let the chef advise you: it is the best way to taste the true flavor of the Mediterranean.

When one thinks of Syracuse, one thinks of its light, its sea, its history. But there is another element that defines the landscape and flavor of this land: the lemon. The Syracuse Lemon PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) is an excellence recognized worldwide, a true "green gold" for the local economy and culture.

Unique Characteristics

What makes this lemon so special? First of all, it is incredibly juicy (over 34% juice) and rich in essential oils in the peel, which make it aromatic and fragrant. The main variety is the Femminello Siracusano, which has the peculiarity of flowering several times a year, ensuring almost continuous production. Its edible peel is perfect for an infinite number of uses in the kitchen and in pastry.

In the Kitchen and Beyond

The Syracuse lemon is a versatile ingredient that enhances every dish. A simple squeeze on fresh fish, the grated zest in a risotto or a cake, the juice to prepare a refreshing drink. It is the main ingredient of granita, one of the symbols of the Sicilian breakfast. But it is also the basis for producing limoncello, a digestive liqueur famous all over the world. Its use goes beyond the kitchen: its essential oils are used in the cosmetic and perfume industries.

The Landscape of Lemon Groves

Traveling in the Syracusan hinterland means immersing yourself in the landscape of the "giardini," as the lemon groves are called here. These expanses of evergreen trees, laden with bright yellow fruits, are a sight for the eyes and the nose. Many farms organize guided tours and tastings, an opportunity to discover this extraordinary product and the culture that surrounds it up close.

Syracuse was the homeland of one of the greatest geniuses of antiquity: Archimedes. A mathematician, physicist, engineer, and inventor, his discoveries shaped the course of science. Although many of his places have been lost, his legacy is still alive in the city and his legendary figure hovers among the ancient stones.

On the Trail of the Genius

Although his house and laboratory no longer exist, some places evoke his presence. The Neapolis Archaeological Park is the context in which he operated, defending the city with his war machines during the Roman siege. Walking in the park means treading the same land where Archimedes found inspiration. Another symbolic place is the so-called "Tomb of Archimedes," a Roman-era tomb carved into the rock, which popular tradition has associated with the great scientist, although historians are skeptical.

The Archimedes Technopark

For an interactive experience suitable for the whole family, the Archimedes Technopark is a must-see. Here, many of his ingenious inventions have been reconstructed in full scale: from levers to the hydraulic screw, from war machines to burning mirrors. It is a fun and educational way to understand the scope of his genius and to touch firsthand the physical principles he discovered.

The Legacy of a Universal Thinker

Archimedes is not just a historical figure, but a symbol of human creativity and ingenuity. His famous exclamation "Eureka!" ("I have found it!") as he discovered the principle of buoyancy has become synonymous with enlightenment. Remembering Archimedes in Syracuse means celebrating curiosity and the power of the human mind to overcome any limit.

In 1608, fleeing from Malta, Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, arrived in Syracuse. Here, thanks to the help of his friend and Syracusan painter Mario Minniti, he obtained an important commission from the city's Senate: an altarpiece for the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro. The result was an absolute masterpiece, the "Burial of Saint Lucy," a work that has forever marked the history of art.

A Dramatic and Revolutionary Work

The painting is shocking. Caravaggio chooses not to represent the martyrdom, but the moment after, the pitiful burial. The scene is dominated by a deep darkness, slashed by a raw and violent light that models the bodies. In the foreground, two enormous gravediggers, with their tense muscles, seem to crush the fragile body of the saint. The empty, dark space above the characters accentuates the sense of oppression and tragedy. The artist used one of the Syracusan latomie as a model for the setting, perhaps the Ear of Dionysius itself, inextricably linking the work to the city.

Where to Admire the Masterpiece

After a long and complex restoration, the work has had several locations. Currently, the "Burial of Saint Lucy" is exhibited in the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia, in Piazza Duomo. Seeing the painting live in this context is an intense emotional experience. The setup allows you to get close to the work and to grasp every detail, from the quick and nervous brushstroke to the incredible psychological rendering of the characters.

The Syracusan Legacy

The brief but intense stay in Syracuse was fundamental for the last phase of Caravaggio's production. The drama and spatial composition of the "Burial" would influence all his subsequent works. For Syracuse, safeguarding this masterpiece means having a perennial link with one of the greatest and most tormented masters of painting of all time.

Twice a year, in December and May, Syracuse stops to celebrate its beloved patron saint, Saint Lucy. More than just a religious observance, the festival is an all-encompassing event that blends deep devotion, centuries-old traditions, and popular participation, offering a unique glimpse into Syracusan culture and identity.

December 13: The Day of Martyrdom

December 13 is the main day. In the morning, the heavy silver simulacrum of the Saint, kept in the Cathedral, is carried on the shoulders of 48 "green caps" (the bearers) in a very slow and moving procession. Thousands of devotees, many of them barefoot, follow the statue along the entire route, from Ortigia to the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro. Tradition dictates that on this day, no bread or pasta is eaten, but rice (arancini) and legumes are consumed, in memory of a famine ended by the Saint's intercession.

The Octave and the Return

The statue remains on display for eight days in the Basilica. On December 20, the day of the Octave, a second procession, equally attended and evocative, accompanies the simulacrum back to the Cathedral. This second journey is made even more spectacular by the passage over the Ponte Umbertino and the fireworks that welcome the Saint upon her return to Ortigia.

The May Festival: "Saint Lucy of the Quails"

On the first Sunday of May, a second, shorter but much-loved festival is celebrated, commemorating the Saint's patronage during a famine. It is known as the festival of "Saint Lucy of the Quails" because, according to tradition, the arrival of ships laden with wheat was announced by a flock of quails. Witnessing one of these processions is an intense experience that allows you to connect with the deepest and most sincere soul of the city.

Syracuse is not only a city of history but also of myth. Its origins and most iconic places are intertwined with divine tales and legends that enrich its charm. Knowing these myths means looking at the city with different eyes, discovering a deeper level of meaning.

The Myth of Arethusa and Alpheus

The most famous myth is undoubtedly that of the nymph Arethusa. To escape the river-god Alpheus, who was madly in love with her, Arethusa asked the goddess Artemis for help, who transformed her into a freshwater spring. Arethusa traveled underground and under the sea, re-emerging on the island of Ortigia. But Alpheus, unwilling to give up, followed the same path and united his waters with those of his beloved nymph. This poetic myth explains the presence of the Fountain of Arethusa, a pool of fresh water that springs just a few steps from the sea, and symbolizes the indissoluble bond between Syracuse and its Greek motherland.

The Legend of Cyane and Cianippe

Another poignant tale is linked to the Ciane River, the only place in Europe where papyrus grows spontaneously. Legend has it that the nymph Cyane tried to prevent the abduction of Persephone by Hades, the god of the underworld. To punish her, Hades transformed her into a double spring with turquoise-colored waters (cyanos, in Greek). The nymph's young fiancé, Cianippe, seeing the transformation, let himself die of grief in the same waters. It is a myth that speaks of love, sacrifice, and the deep bond between the city and its waters.

The Echo of Dionysius

Even the famous cave known as the Ear of Dionysius is shrouded in legend. It is said that the tyrant Dionysius used the extraordinary acoustics of the quarry to listen, unseen, to the conversations of his prisoners, thus thwarting plots and revolts. Although it is a legend, it perfectly describes the atmosphere of suspicion and power that characterized the tyrant's court.

One of the most fascinating botanical and cultural peculiarities of Syracuse is the spontaneous presence of papyrus (Cyperus papyrus). Along with the Fountain of Arethusa, the banks of the Ciane River are the only place in Europe where this plant, native to Egypt, has been growing luxuriantly for millennia. This tradition has given rise to a unique art: the production of papyrus paper.

A Unique Ecosystem: The Ciane River Reserve

A boat trip along the Ciane River is an immersive experience. You navigate slowly on emerald-colored waters, surrounded by a dense vegetation of papyrus that can reach 4-5 meters in height, creating a sort of natural tunnel. The "Fiume Ciane e Saline di Siracusa" nature reserve protects this fragile and precious ecosystem, a corner of Egypt in the heart of the Mediterranean.

The Art of Papyrus Paper

The processing of papyrus, an art believed to be lost, was rediscovered in Syracuse at the end of the eighteenth century. The process is complex and fascinating. The stem of the plant is cut into thin strips, which are then soaked in water, pressed, and crossed over each other. The final drying gives life to the papyrus sheet, recognizable by its unique texture. In Ortigia, it is possible to visit several artisan workshops where the "papirologi" masters show the various stages of processing and sell their artifacts, often decorated with reproductions of ancient art.

A Souvenir of Culture

Buying a papyrus in Syracuse does not just mean buying a souvenir, but taking with you a piece of history and an artisanal tradition that links the city to the greatest civilizations of the past. It is a symbol of the cultural and natural wealth of this corner of Sicily.

The Syracusan coast offers an incredible variety of beaches and bays, capable of satisfying every desire: from fine golden sand to wild cliffs, from equipped beaches to pristine coves. Here is a guide to navigate the jewels of the coastline.

For Convenience: Fontane Bianche and Arenella

A few kilometers from the city, Fontane Bianche is the most famous and popular beach. Characterized by fine white sand and a gently sloping seabed, it is perfect for families. It offers numerous equipped lidos, bars, and restaurants. Similar but slightly quieter is the Arenella beach, another excellent option for those seeking comfort and services.

For Wild Nature: The Vendicari Reserve

For nature lovers, the Vendicari Reserve is a paradise. Inside it are some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. Calamosche, reachable with a walk of about 20 minutes, is an iconic cove, a semicircle of sand protected by two rocky headlands, with calm and crystal clear sea. Further south, the long beach of Vendicari offers a view of the old tuna fishery and the ponds where you can go birdwatching. Finally, San Lorenzo, on the southern border of the reserve, offers both equipped lidos and large areas of free beach with a Caribbean-like sea.

For Snorkeling: The Plemmirio and La Pillirina

The Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, south of Syracuse, is the kingdom of snorkelers and divers. It is a predominantly rocky coast, with access to the sea that opens onto seabeds rich in life. The best-known beach is that of Pillirina, a sandy bay set in the cliff, linked to a romantic local legend and reachable on foot.

A few minutes' drive from Syracuse extends a stretch of coastline of extraordinary beauty: the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area. Established to protect the rich biodiversity of its seabeds, the reserve is a paradise for lovers of the sea, snorkeling, diving, and hiking.

A Sea to Explore

The seabeds of Plemmirio are an underwater museum. Here you will find meadows of Posidonia, underwater caves, and abundant fish fauna, including groupers, sea bream, and, with a bit of luck, even passing tuna. Thanks to the clear waters, even with a simple mask, it is possible to admire a colorful world full of life. Numerous diving centers organize guided dives to explore the most suggestive sites, where it is not uncommon to come across archaeological finds from the Greek-Roman era.

Trails Overlooking the Sea

Plemmirio is not just sea. A well-marked path, known as the "Sentiero della Maddalena," runs along the entire peninsula offering breathtaking views. Walking here means being immersed in the scents of the Mediterranean scrub, among dwarf palms, agaves, and wild capers. The path connects the different "varchi," or access points to the sea, allowing you to alternate hiking with a refreshing swim. The most iconic point is the lighthouse of Capo Murro di Porco, a suggestive and wind-beaten place.

The Pillirina Beach

Within the reserve is also one of the most beloved bays by the Syracusans, the Pillirina beach. Reachable via a dirt path, this small golden sand beach is nestled between two rocky cliffs. It is the ideal place to relax in an uncontaminated natural context, far from the crowds of the more equipped beaches.

In the Syracusan hinterland, between the municipalities of Sortino and Ferla, lies a magical and timeless place: the Rock-cut Necropolis of Pantalica. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Syracuse, it is a site that spectacularly combines prehistoric archaeology and a breathtaking natural landscape.

The Necropolis: A Prehistoric Cemetery

Pantalica is the largest necropolis in Europe, with over 5,000 "artificial grotto" tombs carved into the sheer walls of a deep canyon. These tombs, dating from a period between the 13th and 7th centuries BC, create a unique, almost beehive-like landscape. Exploring the paths that wind through the necropolises (North, Filiporto, Cavetta) is like taking a journey back in time, to the origins of Sicilian civilization.

The Canyon and the Rivers

The site is immersed in the "Valle dell'Anapo e Torrente Cava Grande" Nature Reserve. The landscape is dominated by the deep canyon carved over millennia by two rivers, the Anapo and the Calcinara, which meet right here. The paths allow you to descend to the riverbed, where you can take a regenerating swim in lakes and pools of icy, crystal-clear water. The excursion is an all-encompassing experience, alternating hiking under the sun with moments of pure relaxation in nature.

How to Visit Pantalica

The main access to the site is from the Ferla side (locality Sella di Filiporto) or from the Sortino side. It is advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and a swimsuit. The visit requires at least half a day. The absence of services within the reserve helps to maintain its wild and unspoiled charm but requires some preparation before departure.

At the southernmost tip of Sicily, about an hour's drive from Syracuse, are two fishing villages that have preserved an authentic and irresistible charm: Marzamemi and Portopalo di Capo Passero. A day trip here is an immersion in Mediterranean atmospheres, sea flavors, and unforgettable coastal landscapes.

Marzamemi: The Charm of the Tonnara

Marzamemi is a jewel. Its heart is Piazza Regina Margherita, an ancient and dusty courtyard overlooked by the old tuna fishery, the Palace of the Prince of Villadorata, and the fishermen's houses, now transformed into boutiques, craft shops, and charming little restaurants. The atmosphere is magical, especially in the evening, when the square lights up and fills with life. Marzamemi is famous for the processing of fish products: do not leave without having tasted the tuna bottarga, mosciame, or ventresca.

Portopalo and the Island of Capo Passero

A few kilometers away, Portopalo di Capo Passero is the southernmost municipality in Italy (excluding islands). It is a larger and more lived-in fishing village, with a lively port and a genuine atmosphere. Its main attraction is the Island of Capo Passero, located right in front of the town and reachable on foot at low tide or by small boats. On the island, there is an ancient Spanish fortress and wild nature. A little further west is the suggestive Isola delle Correnti, the point where the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea symbolically meet.

Just 30 kilometers from Syracuse stands Noto, unanimously considered the capital of Sicilian Baroque and one of the jewels of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visit to Noto is a dazzling aesthetic experience, a dive into an urban setting of rare beauty.

A "Garden of Stone"

Destroyed by the earthquake of 1693, Noto was entirely rebuilt on a new site, following a modern and scenic urban plan. The material chosen was the local limestone, soft and compact, which over time has taken on a golden-rosy color that glows with magical reflections at sunset. This is why Noto has been called a "garden of stone."

Walking Itinerary in the Historic Center

The visit is concentrated along Corso Vittorio Emanuele. You enter through the monumental Porta Reale and encounter three spectacular squares in succession. The first houses the Church of San Francesco all'Immacolata with its imposing staircase. Continuing, you arrive at the heart of the city, the Piazza del Municipio, where the Cathedral of San Nicolò, with its majestic staircase, and the Palazzo Ducezio, the town hall, face each other. A little further on, you will find the Church of San Domenico, a masterpiece by Rosario Gagliardi. Do not miss a visit to Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata, famous for its balconies supported by grotesque brackets depicting putti, lions, and sirens.

How to Get There from Syracuse

Getting to Noto from Syracuse is very simple. By car, take the A18 motorway south with the Noto exit (about 30 minutes). There are also frequent connections by bus (AST and Interbus) that leave from the Syracuse bus terminal and arrive in the center of Noto, representing an excellent alternative for those without a car.