Nature and parks in Syracuse

Coast, Caves and Springs

Beyond its monuments, Syracuse has limestone quarries turned into gardens, papyrus-lined springs and a rocky coast protected as a marine reserve. This list covers the natural side of the city, from the caves of Neapolis to the beaches and headlands south of Ortigia.

Coast, Caves and Springs — Map

Gabriele Alessia / cc-by-4.0

A

Latomia del Paradiso

An ancient limestone quarry in the Neapolis park, now a shady garden of citrus and other trees around the Ear of Dionysius.

Isiwal / cc-by-sa-4.0

B

Ear of Dionysius

A tall, ear-shaped cave carved out of an ancient limestone quarry, famous for its echo.

Tripomatic user / cc-by-4.0

C

Grotta dei Cordari

Located in the Neapolis Archaeological Park, this cave was used for centuries by rope-makers who utilized the natural humidity to prevent hemp fibers from breaking.

Guma89 / cc-by-sa-3.0

D

Grotta del Ninfeo

An artificial cave above the Greek Theatre, where spring water still flows into a basin.

Marco Brunetti / cc0

E

Ciane Spring

The source of the Ciane river, one of the few places in Europe where wild papyrus grows.

Codas2 / cc-by-sa-3.0

F

Plemmirio Marine Reserve

A protected stretch of rocky coast on the Maddalena peninsula, with clear water for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Alessandro Cataldo / cc-by-sa-3.0

G

Capo Murro di Porco

The headland at the tip of the Maddalena peninsula, with a lighthouse, sea cliffs and views back to Ortigia.

fab. / cc-by-2.0

H

Arenella

A sandy beach south of the city with beach clubs and shallow water, popular with families.

Sabas88 / cc-by-sa-4.0

I

Fontane Bianche Beach

A wide crescent of white sand and turquoise water, named for the natural freshwater springs that flow into the sea here.

J

Spiaggia della Pillirina

A secluded bay in the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, featuring two small beaches and remains of ancient Greek limestone quarries.

Plamen neychev / cc-by-4.0

K

Giardini Principessa Mafalda di Savoia

A coastal garden in Ortigia offering shaded paths and views over the Porto Grande.

Other Lists

Syracuse Unmissables Ancient Sites and Fortresses Historic Churches

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