Ortigia Island Guided Tour

On this Ortigia Island Guided Tour, you'll explore Syracuse's historical centre, discovering significant historical sites, temples, palaces, churches, and fountains.

Description

At the scheduled time, we will meet at Largo XXV Luglio in front of the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily, dating back to the 6th century B.C. This site marks an important architectural transition from wooden to stone temples in Western Europe.

Following the temple, we will visit the Church of San Filippo Apostolo and explore its crypt, which served as an air-raid shelter during World War II.

Next, we will proceed to Piazza Archimede to see the Fountain of Diana, crafted in 1906 by Giulio Moschetti, depicting the myth of the nymph Arethusa and her protection by Diana.

Our tour will continue to the Cathedral of Syracuse, built in the 17th century by integrating the Baroque elements into the existing Doric temple dedicated to Minerva.

We will also visit the Arethusa Fountain, a circular pool surrounded by papyrus plants, and discuss its connection to the myth of Arethusa and Alphaeus.

After 2 hours of exploring Syracuse's ancient island, we will conclude our guided tour of Ortigia and bid farewell.