"...I don't think there is another city in the world that has in front of itself a so marvellous image of its great past times...": Edmondo De Amicis a relevant Italian writer, wrote these words about Siracusa.
(15 minutes far from Casal Sikelio)
Mediterraneo's gem and cultural capital of Magna Grecia, the city offers a great variety of choices and attractions. It stands on the shores of south-eastern Sicily and shows different types of coasts: from jagged cliffs to beautiful beaches. The urban territory develops itself on the island of Ortigia and on the mainland; because of its geographic conformation, Siracusa presents a natural spectacle made of river valleys, coloured latomie and beaches that – together with archeological elements of undoubtable historical relevance – give birth to the unique beauty of the place. Since the ancient times, as a matter of fact, Siracusa has been characterized by several architectural influences; inside the Archeological Park of Neapolis, the biggest in town, you will find: the greek theatre, which hosts every year the classical representations – a great opportunity for witnessing an authentic echo of the greek times – the Ninfeo's cave, the Sepolcri's way, the Dionisio's ear, the Archimede's tomb and a lot more. Ortigia, centre of Siracusa's nocturnal life with its pubs and restaurants, is also home to some of the citys's most important attractions in cultural and historical terms: Piazza Duomo, an elegant synthesis of greek, byzantine and norman influences; Fonte Aretusa, “crossroad” of history and myth as well as scenography for the characteristic papyrus; Santa Lucia alla Badia's Church, that hosts the original version of one of Caravaggio's paintings and Maniace Castle, wanted by Federico II di Svevia and toaday a precious norman-times' reminiscence. Ortigia also hosts the Old Market, element of direct connection to the gastronomic wealth of the city. Siracusa is a kaleidoscope of millenia of history projected towards the future.