The Island of Ortigia, Sicily

Have you already booked your accommodation among the luxury villas for rent in Siracusa by Dolce Vita Villas? We suggest you to start your holiday in Sicily visiting the beautiful island of Ortigia, the oldest part of Siracusa.

Ortigia is a small island located in the South-East coast of Sicily and connected to the mainland by three bridges: it is the historic center of Siracusa, which, in the past, was one of the largest cities in ancient Greece.

The history of Ortigia is very attractive and the Greek heritage is still present in many monuments: during the Hellenistic period, in fact, the island was the political and religious center of the town of Siracusa. Still visible today, the temples built by the Greeks, as Artemision and Athenaion.

After the earthquake that destroyed the town at the end of the seventeenth century, Ortigia was later rebuilt according to the Baroque style. Thanks to the blend of the Baroque and Greek style, the island retains its unique beauty.

Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the island of Ortigia is the heart of the whole town, where you will love getting lost among the streets or the scents of the market.

All along the waterfront, as well as a succession of ancient palaces and churches, you will arrive at Castello Maniace: originally built as a fortress to defend the natural port of Ortigia, it was then rebuilt as a castle by Frederick II Duke of Swabia. Climb to the top of the castle and enjoy the magnificent view.

Once passed the main bridge of Ponte Umberto, you will then reach the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily dating back from the sixth century BC.

Aren’t you dreaming of exploring Siracusa and stay in any of the available villas for rent in Siracusa by Dolce Vita Villas?