a bridge over a body of water
a bridge over a body of water

Visit Ortygia

Ortygia (also spelled Ortigia) is Syracuse’s enchanting centro storico (old town), set upon an ancient island and rich with history and charm. Connected to the mainland by several impressive bridges, the beating heart of Syracuse has seen more than 2,500 years of life thrum through its streets, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thanks to its compact proportions, Ortygia is easy to explore, and packed with an impressive number of beguiling sights and attractions.

Originally a Greek settlement, the city first gained renown when it managed to defeat Athens back in 413 BC. It then continued to thrive, passing through numerous civilisations including the Romans, Byzantines, Normans and Catalan people before enjoying centuries of peace under present Italian ownership. The city now provides a tantalising glimpse at many of these moments in its history, with a vast array of different architectural styles and many atmospheric lanes to explore.

Right at the centre of Ortygia is the Piazza Duomo, home to the city’s remarkable baroque cathedral. It is here that many of Ortygia’s finest marvels can be found, with numerous palazzos and the Church of Santa Luca, home to one of the city’s only Caravaggio paintings. The long, thin square is also home to a hidden attraction – the Hypogeum. Accessed through a palatial entrance, the Hypogeum is a haunting network of tunnels deep below the city that can be explored for a small fee. Not for the faint hearted!

Elsewhere in the maze of ancient streets, visitors will discover peaceful springs, hidden piazzas and local businesses, selling everything from original artworks to authentic Italian food. The city is best explored by on foot, with many of the most popular sections not open to cars.

Recommended on these multi centres

Cta image
Syracuse and Taormina

 8 Day suggests multi centre from £1,699 per person

Travel around Sicily by car, stopping at the island’s two most enchanting destinations.

003411-Church-View-Pixabay-1157365-Hybris
Rome and Sicily

8 Day suggested multi centre from £985 per person

Combine the 'Eternal City' of Rome with the rugged Mediterranean island of Sicily; two culturally rich destinations, each boasting its own ancient heritage.

Feefo review image

What our customers think

We have been helping our customers discover the real Italy for 90 years now. Our experience and expertise, together with our attention to detail and personal touch, really does make us the leading Italian holiday specialist

Ask for Quote
Request a Brochure