Syracuse

HISTORY: Syracuse was founded in the 8th century BC by Greeks, the nucleus of the colony being the small island of Ortygia, and developed at a rapid pace until the 3rd century BC, becoming similar to Athens in terms of power and population. In the next centuries, Syracuse passed under Roman domination, and in the 6th century AD was included in the Byzantine Empire. In the 9th century, the city was conquered by the Aghlabids, and was under Muslim rule for about two hundreds of years.

In 1038, the Byzantines reconquered the city and, in 1085, the Normans entered Syracuse. During the 13th century, in the War between the Angevin and Aragonese dynasties, Syracuse sided with the Aragonese and fought against the Angevins, who were expelled from Sicily in 1298. After the Unification of Italy in 1865, Syracuse regained its status as a provincial capital.

GEOGRAPHY: Today, Syracuse is a city of about 120,000 inhabitants, located on the southeastern part of Sicily. The city, almost entirely surrounded by water, stands partly on the island of Ortygia and partly on the mainland. Syracuse is located about 62 kilometers away from Catania, about 160 kilometers from Messina and 260 kilometers from Palermo.

TRANSPORT: The closest airport is Vincenzo Bellini International Airport, near Catania. Syracuse is connected by railway with Catania and other main cities of Sicily. A train ticket from Syracuse to Catania costs 6.90€ and the trip takes about one hour. A train ticket to Messina is 10.50€ and the trip takes almost three hours. Regular buses run from Syracuse to Catania, Modica, Noto, Ragusa and to other important towns of the island.

LANDMARKS: The most beautiful part of Syracuse, with the most important monuments and the most interesting tourist attractions, is the island of Ortygia. Here, we can find the Cathedral of Syracuse, Castello Maniace, Aretusa Fountain and the Temple of Apollo. The streets of the historical center of the city are also quite picturesque, and walking along them is a real pleasure.

MORE INFO: Official Website | Catania Airport | Car Hire | Train Timetables & Fares | Hotels in Syracuse