SYRACUSA

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Syracuse was home to the grandest public works in the Western world, surpassing Athens in prestige after a battle at sea in 413 BC. Archimedes foiled the enemy by using mechanical devices such as mirrors and magnifying glasses to blind the enemy and perhaps burn their boats. Eventually the Romans took the city, killing Archimedes, despite orders from General Marcellus that he should be taken alive. The Arabs destroyed the city in the 9th century and was later evangelized by Ss Peter and Paul.

Accessed by a walkway, Ortigia is an island full of Spanish Baroque buildings, but owing to our interest in the extensive Greek theater, we never reached it. Another time! And Palermo will certainly compensate.

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Photos

Archeological Park of Neapolis
Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 5th century AD.

Walking up to the Greek Theater
Passing the Latomia del Paradiso, or Paradise Quarry, this former limestone quarry is now a very green and peaceful area that is filled with lemon and orange trees.

The theater could seat 15,000 spectators in 59 rows
It is in much the same condition as it was in the 5th century BC

Plays, circuses and philosophical discussions took place here.
There is still a Greek festival held here in mid-May to June

The Ear of Dionysius.
Legend has it that Dionysius, the ruler of ancient Siracusa would eavesdrop on the prisoners who were incarcerated here. The cave, which was carved out of the limestone hill, is shaped similar to a human ear and because of its shape, it has excellent acoustics, which allowed Dionysius the ability to eavesdrop. The cave measures 23 meters high, 65 meters deep