Welcome to one of the ancient world’s capitals!

Syracuse, located on the southeast coast of the island of Sicily, was one of the major powers of the ancient world and played a key role in ancient times. Syracuse was settled in 734 BCE by Corinthians led by the aristocrat Archias, and it soon became the chief Greek city of ancient Sicily, dominating the coastal plain and hill country beyond. Syracuse was at the forefront of Greek cultural and political innovation and was known for its advanced architecture, literature, art, and theatre. The city was also a centre of commerce and trade and had a powerful navy that dominated the Mediterranean. The city reached its peak during the 5th century BCE, under the rule of the tyrant Dionysius the Elder, who transformed Syracuse into a major power in the Western Mediterranean. Syracuse was also the birthplace of the famous mathematician and inventor Archimedes. Overall, Syracuse was a city with a rich history and significant influence on the ancient world during its peak.

Modern city

Syracuse is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to do and see for tourists. Some of the top highlights and places to visit in Syracuse today include Ortigia Island, the Temple of Apollo, Syracuse Harbor, Castello Maniace, Arethusa Fountain, Piazza del Duomo, Fountain of Diana, the alleys of Ortigia Island, Piste Cyclable de Syracuse, and Neapolis Archaeological Park.

It is recommended other popular things to do in Syracuse, such as cooking classes, ancient ruins tours, walking tours, wine tastings, dining experiences, speciality museums, historical tours, and architectural building tours.

Ortigia – an island inside the city walls

Ortigia Island, which is the oldest part of the city and is known for its beautiful architecture and quaint streets. Additionally, there are direct daily departures to other popular cities in Sicily, such as Noto, Taormina, and Palermo, which can be accessed through affordable and convenient means of transportation such as Interbus. Visitors may also enjoy a passeggiata, or evening walk, around the perimeter of Ortigia Island to take in the notable structures and stories that surround the area. Furthermore, wandering around the small island of Ortigia which is 1km long and 600 meters wide can be a great way to experience the local culture and architecture.

Archimede – The scientist

Archimedes was a famous Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer who lived in Syracuse, Sicily around 287 BCE. He is considered one of the most important scientists of all time and made significant contributions to fields such as geometry, calculus, mechanics, and hydrostatics. Archimedes was born in Syracuse, where he lived most of his life and developed his theories. He died in 212 BCE during the conquest of Syracuse by Roman troops. Archimedes’ father was also an astronomer and not much else is known about him. Overall, Archimedes is an important historical figure associated with Syracuse, Sicily.

“Let thy speech be better than silence, or be silent”

Dionysius I of Syracuse

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