"Siracusa: a Sicilian gem" Top 5 Page for this destination Siracusa by MikeBird

Siracusa Travel Guide: 300 reviews and 592 photos

The eastern edge of Ortygia in the winter sunshine

I couldn't possibly hope to encapsulate the wonderful history of this ancient city and port. Much has been written about it and so I suggest you visit other websites to acquire a fuller and more detailed summary but in essence Syracusa was, from the 8th century BC, a major Greek colony - Archimedes was born and lived here - before being ransacked by the Romans. They in turn were overrun by Barbarians and later Byzantines, Arabs and Normans. Following a major earthquake in 1693 much of the city was rebuilt in the Baroque style. With such a diverse range of influences it's hardly surprising that the city is a fascinating place to visit with plenty to interest the visitor.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Steeped in history and atmosphere
In a nutshell:Indulge yourself in the atmosphere of this place

Last visit to Siracusa: Dec 2009
Intro Updated Jan 10, 2010
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Reviews (10)

Entry tickets - for the museum - Siracusa

Visit the Siracusa Archaeological Museum Things to Do (8)

The Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, located on Viale Teocrito opposite the Lacrime Basilica in Siracusa, provides some... more travel advice

Shop locally - try the daily market Things to Do (8)

The market in Ortigyia is located in 3 side streets on the eastern side of the island and near to Apollo's temple. It's... more travel advice

Lighting up the main shpping street in Ortigyia - Siracusa

Enjoy the Christmas illuminations in... Things to Do (8)

We were delighted to find that the small, old city of Ortigyia had been decorated with some really pleasing and... more travel advice

The open air cheese counter at the shop front - Siracusa

Delicatessan in Siracusa Shopping (1)

If you are looking for that special tasty gift to take home or a glass of something special to remind you of Siracusa... more travel advice

Transportation (1)
GoBike scheme in Siracusa

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Comments (4)

lee.evelyn May 19, 2011 at 2:48 AM Report Abuse

Great Pages! Very helpful with the planning of my trip to Sicily this October.
BruceDunning Oct 12, 2010 at 11:56 AM Report Abuse

We have not been to the island, but a maybe trip one day when back to Italy. YOu have great pictures and the comments are well done
Manara May 11, 2010 at 4:26 PM Report Abuse

What a lovely page! I have fond memories of Siracusa and its theatre.
uglyscot Mar 17, 2010 at 10:27 AM Report Abuse

This looks an interesting place, especially the harbour and archaeological park.