This city is the ancient nucleus of Siracusa- remaining vestiges of history are concentrated on this small island. Portside is the Temple of Apollo ruins dating back to 580 BC. Siracusa cathedral’s exposed wall illustrates the layers of civilization. It’s made a 2,000+ temple.
Doric columns of a Greek Temple 480BC>
Wall added 530AD Byzantine church>
Mosque - Arabs 827 AD>
Normans combo fortress/church1060
Doric columns of a Greek Temple 480BC>
Wall added 530AD Byzantine church>
Mosque - Arabs 827 AD>
Normans combo fortress/church1060
This Baroque structure dominates the beautiful semi- circle Piazza Duomo, traffic free, surrounded by 17 & 18 C edifices. Santa Lucia watches over from her high post on the church’s front.
We explore the city’s streets which connect from sea to sea- so enjoying this walkable island, lunch is at Borderi- a famous local spot near the market. An unforgettable sandwich- warm bread filled with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, peppers, zucchini and thin slices of ham and prosciutto. Praised as the “best sandwich in the world” we agree….
We explore the city’s streets which connect from sea to sea- so enjoying this walkable island, lunch is at Borderi- a famous local spot near the market. An unforgettable sandwich- warm bread filled with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, peppers, zucchini and thin slices of ham and prosciutto. Praised as the “best sandwich in the world” we agree….
At night we have a Charcuterie of grilled fish. We then walk and stumble upon music- a trio - American songs but not your usual selection. We listen and then walk the quiet streets back to our hotel. It is located towards the southern tip close to the Fountain of Arethusa-which was the freshwater spring on the island- transformed now into a duck/ koi refuge.
Essere l’alta meta della mela. Being the other half of the Apple- a soulmate (I found mine in the Big Apple a lifetime ago)
Irene & David
2024-10-02
Your post brings back great memories of Ortigia, a unique city and you found the fish grille!
Susan
2024-10-02
Wish I was there!
Annie
2024-10-02
The most beautiful part of this post was the last line..... You and Charles are true soul-mates. I am honored that I have known and love both of you for a 'lifetime.' XOXO
Dotti
2024-10-02
So sweet about Charles being your soulmate. I love the story of how you two met and then finally got together. Ortigia sounds like a lovely town. The food heavenly.xoxox
Anna
2024-10-02
You both found your soulmate (although you may have some competition with that sandwich:) Such a beautiful lace! Such beautiful memories!
Anna
2024-10-02
…”.a beautiful place”
Paula Moratto
2024-10-02
Another beautiful place to visit. Amazing food!
Stephen
2024-10-05
An island off and island. Surprised so much has happened in that city.