Ortygia, Historical island center in Syracuse, Italy
Ortygia is an island off the coast of Sicily, connected to the mainland by two short bridges and forming the historic center of Syracuse. Stone walls line the coast, while narrow lanes run between honey-colored limestone buildings that cluster around small squares and courtyards.
Greeks from Corinth founded a settlement here in the 8th century BCE, which later grew into the most powerful city in Sicily. Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards took control in succession, each shaping the architecture and cityscape with their own styles.
Residents gather in Piazza Duomo during the evening, when the Baroque church facades glow under warm light and families sit on the steps. Narrow alleys lead to small squares where fishermen mend their nets and craftsmen work in workshops that have been passed down through generations.
The center can be explored on foot, as most sites sit close together and cars are not allowed in many lanes. Early morning or late afternoon works well for a visit, when fewer tourists are around and the light falls softer.
At the southern tip lies the Arethusa Fountain, a natural freshwater pond just a few meters from the sea, where papyrus plants grow and ducks swim. Fishermen bring their boats back to the small harbor in the early morning and sell freshly caught fish straight from the boat.
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