Syracuse

Syracuse was once the most powerful city in the Greek world — more powerful than Athens, richer than Corinth. Archimedes was born here, and the city was a center of science and culture for 500 years. Today, Syracuse is one of the most fascinating cities in Sicily, with a UNESCO-protected old town on the island of Ortygia.

Ortygia ★★★

The old town island is a labyrinth of baroque palaces, Greek temples, and medieval alleys, surrounded by crystal-clear sea. The Duomo was literally built into a Greek temple of Athena — the Doric columns are still embedded in the church walls. The Fonte Aretusa (a freshwater spring right by the sea, full of papyrus) and the waterfront at sunset are magical.

Parco Archeologico della Neapolis ★★

The Greek Theater (5th century BC, 15,000 seats) is one of the largest in the ancient world. Greek tragedies are still performed here in May/June. The Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio) — a 23 m high, teardrop-shaped limestone cave with astonishing acoustics — is equally impressive. Entry: €13.