A City of Endless Wonders
Cicero described Syracuse as «the largest and most beautiful Greek city», a place shrouded in millennia of history and a glorious metropolis of the classical age. Lying on the south-eastern side of Sicily, it is famous for the charm of its oldest area, the island of Ortigia. This particular geography has often been referred to as the ‘island within an island’, with spectacular sunsets and glimpses of pure, authentic beauty.
Syracuse and the rocky Necropolis of Pantalica have been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2005
In 2005, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the artistic and cultural richness of its territory. From the incredible Archaeological Park of Neapolis, with the Greek Theatre, the latomy and the Ear of Dionysus, to the Maniace Castle – which stands on the tip of Ortigia – and the Euryalus Castle, an ancient Greek fortress. Also not to be missed are the imposing Baroque Duomo, Syracuse’s most important place of worship, and Fonte Aretusa, a pool of freshwater and lush papyrus trees.
From a naturalistic point of view, this destination offers two unspoilt reserves: the Cavagrande del Cassibile’s Oriented Nature Reserve and the Pantalica’s Reserve, where you can visit the famous rocky necropolis. Sea lovers can also dive into crystal-clear water and stroll along golden shores, such as the Beaches of Calamosche and Vendicari. Island of Correnti is a scenic jewel, the southernmost tip of the region, where you can see a former lighthouse.
Festivals in Sicily
Sicily is a land of millenary traditions and spectacular celebrations, when it comes to festivities as heartfelt as Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Check all our tips on what to see and do to spend Christmas holidays in Sicily and make your trip unforgettable!