Ortigia Island
The Island of Ortigia , connected by two bridges to the mainland, represents the oldest area of the city of Syracuse, and is rich in natural and architectural wonders.
On this island there are some splendid buildings from various eras, which trace the history of Syracuse starting from the Greek period: The remains of some important temples such as the temple of Apollo , the temple of Artemis , and the more famous temple of Athena today incorporated in the more modern Cathedral of Syracuse .
To admire are the splendid Piazza del Duomo and its hypogeum , the Piazza di Archimede with its fountain and the famous Fountain of Arethusa .
There are also numerous religious architectures, among which, in addition to the splendid Duomo, the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia , the church of San Filippo Apostolo, the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Church of San Martino and the Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli.
Among the many architectural beauties we remember the Castello Maniace , which stands on the extreme tip of the island, Palazzo Bellomo, seat of the regional gallery of contemporary art, former church of Santa Maria di Monte Vergini, seat of the Civic Gallery of contemporary art, the Archbishop's Palace, the Palazzo della Superintendenza dei Beni Culturali, Palazzo Vermexio, Palazzo Arezzo della Targia, the Beneventano dal Bosco palace, the Borgia del Casa palace le, Palazzo Francica Nava, Palazzo Impellizzeri Vianisi and Palazzo Montalto.
The island of Ortigia is connected to the mainland by two bridges that can also be traveled by car, but since there is a large ZTL area, it is advisable to visit Ortigia on foot or by using the special public service.
