Siracusa & Ortygia Island
Sicily Tour - Photos/Info: Taormina - Etna
) |
) |
) |
) |
) |
) |
) |
| #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 | #6 | #7 |
| Siracusa (Syracuse) Noted for it's Greek heritage, Siracusa was founded in 733 BC. After a decisive sea battle with Athens, Siracusa become the Mediterranean's leading power. The city has a long and rich history being occupied by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish to name just a few. Siracusa is also home to Archimedes (born 287 BC), best known for discovering the theory of specific gravity - eureka!. He also is known for the Archimedean screw, still used today for lifting water; using a series of magnifying glasses to burn the incoming Roman fleet; helping construct a 4,000 ton ship, 60 times larger than conventional ships; formulating the area and volume of spheres, cylinders and other shapes and creating a long range catapult that defeated the Carthaginian invading fleet. So esteemed was Archimedes, the Roman commander ordered him captured alive when conquering Siracusa. However, he was so absorbed in doodling a concept in the sand, when a Roman soldier stepped on his scratchings, Archimedes protested and was casually slain by the soldier's sword. #1 - Greek Theater: Carved out of solid rock, the 15,000 seat Greek Theater is the largest in Europe. Although altered in the 3rd century, the theater dates back to 474 BC. #2 - Ancient Quarries: Although off limits to visitors the Greek quarries still impress from a distance. #3 & #4 - Piazza Duomo: Two views of the Piazza Duomo, Ortygia Island. #6 - The Cathedral: Located in the Piazza Duomo, Ortygia Island, the Cathedral was built around the remains of the Temple of Athena. "The Church of Syracuse was the first to be founded by Saint Peter and, after the Church of Antiochia, the first to be dedicated to Christ". From a letter by Pope Leo. #6 - Ortygia Side Street: The small island of Ortygia offers wonderful, narrow streets usually adorned with flowers. #7 - Fonte Aretusa, Ortygia Island: The symbol of Siracusa and an evening gathering spot for romantic youth. |