Siracusa
Ortigia
Siracusa is half on the mainland and half on an island called Ortigia. Most of the mainland portion was destroyed in the Second World War. Fortunately, Ortigia remains intact and has enormous history to show to visitors. This photo is of the porto grande on the south side of the island. Our hotel, The Grand, is the building second from right.
On the north side of the island, this is the porto piccolo, the original historic port of Siracusa. Used by the Greeks and others from 700 BC onwards.
Morning street market
Really good fish!
Piazza Archimede and the beautiful Fontana di Diana.
A natural artesian spring has provided a constant source of fresh water here since recorded time.
Temple of Apollo
Entering the Piazza Duomo, the center of this historic city.
Super place to have a snack and glass of wine while watching the world old and new. The Duomo directly across from us is arguably one of the most significant buildings in Europe. The beautiful rocco facade was constructed about 700 AD. Inside, however is a perfectly preserved Greek temple. The Christains did not tear down this temple, as they did the others that they knew about, because they had converted it to use as a church. Take a look inside, below...
The traditional altar was added to make it a workable church. But, recognize the structure?
The original fluted outer columns of the temple are easy to spot on the left, as is the typical inner wall used by the Greeks, to the right. Take a look at the photo of a temple in Agregento, below to get the full idea of the original structure.
The christains simply filled in the spaces between the outer columns and put on a roof. The new front facade then gave them a church building. Albeit very interesting.
Faye lights a candle in prayer for special friends.
Another tough lunch. Mussels and a Sicilian salad to die for. Local white (golden) wine!
Niapolis Archeological Park
This park is located just on the inland side of Siracusa. This was where the Greeks and Romans entertained themselves in amphitheatres, theatres, and playing fields. This photo is of the amphitheatre.
This is the base of what was a giant altar dedicated to Zues Eleutherios, god of freedom.
The original greek theatre, built in 6th century BC is receiving a temporary face in preparation for the season of Greek plays offered each summer. Can seat upwards of 15 thousand persons.
As is typical for Greeks, the backdrop view is superb.
Above the theatre is (right, behind the two persons) another amazing artesian spring.
The volume of water is amazing. The Greeks conveyed it by various culverts and aquaducts to many locations in the park.