Ortigia Island Guided Tour
Description
At the indicated time, we'll meet at Largo XXV Luglio, located in front of the Temple of Apollo. This iconic building dates back to the beginning of 6th century B.C. and is considered to be the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. This temple is also one of the earliest architectural examples in Western Europe of the transition from a wooden to a stone temple.
After discussing the history of this fascinating temple, we'll head to the Church of San Filippo Apostolo to explore its crypt, which was used as an air-raid shelter during the Second World War.
We'll then head to Piazza Archimede, where we'll observe the Fountain of Diana, created in 1906 by the Piceno sculptor Giulio Moschetti. This iconic sculpture illustrates the mythological tale of the nymph Arethusa fleeing from Alphaeus under Diana's protection.
The next item on our guided tour will be the Cathedral of Syracuse. This magnificent building was built in the 17th century by incorporating the Baroque cathedral into the main Doric temple of the Syracusan polis, which was dedicated to the Roman goddess Minerva.
In addition, we'll see the enchanting Arethusa Fountain, a circular pool of water around which the precious papyrus plants grow. Like the Fountain of Diana, this place is also linked to the myth of Arethusa and Alphaeus, which we'll discuss during the tour.
After 2 hours exploring the history of Syracuse's ancient island, we'll finish our guided tour of Ortigia and say our goodbyes.
More Information
Duration
2 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Italian.
Included
Certified English and Italian–speaking guide
Not included
Entrance fee to the Cathedral of Syracuse: € 2 (US$ 2.08) per person
Food and drinks
When to book?
You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- Printed material is avoided.
- No single-use plastics are used.
- The activity promotes local production.
- The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
- No printing of documentation required.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a gender equality policy.
Provider
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Hermes Sicily Tours
Corporate name: Hermes Sicily Tours Di Leggio Sebastiano
Pets
Permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
Largo XXV Luglio
