Syracuse

I went to Syracuse by train from Catania for a day trip. Like in most of Southern Italy, the trains are infrequent.

Fountain of Diana

The historical center of Syracuse is located on the Ortigia island.

Coastwalk

Duomo

There’s a backstory in Greek mythology to a freshwater spring on the island: it’s said that the nymph Arethusa escaped Arcadia beneath the sea and resurfaced as a fountain on Oritigia. Interestingly, you can see papyrus growing there. It’s one of the rare spots in Europe where the plant is found (the other locations are also in Sicily).

Fountain of Arethusa

Ship

Plants

Walking along the coast I saw a nice spot for a swim. The weather in December was fine as well.

How about?

The sea didn’t seem too rough when looking at it, but I swam near the rocks (not the best choice) and the waves tossed me around like a fish. I lost my watch, yet surprisingly managed to find it. I ended up with lots and lots of scratches all over my body. Interestingly, I didn’t notice until my travel buddies pointed out that my back was bleeding. Ultimately, this experience was part of me reconciling with the environment. I loved it because it made me feel more alive.

waves + rocks = blood

In the evening I went to the Neapolis archeological park full of various artefacts.

Birds didn't build this

Quarry

I especially liked the caves.

Choose a cave

Cave of the Cords

The Ear of Dionysius is a big cave with exceptional acoustics: everything you say is amplified. It is still a question whether the cave is manmade or artificial.