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Mythology and Legends

Self-Guided Tour

A captivating walk tracking down the ancient myths of gods, nymphs, and heroes woven into the fabric of the city.

DISTANCE 1.7km
TIME 27 min

SURFACE BREAKDOWN

Paved 63%
Paved Smooth 30%
Compacted 7%

ELEVATION PROFILE

15m gain
31m
2m
1
2
3
4

WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE

Syracuse is a city where geology and history are deeply intertwined with poetic myths. This tour brings those ancient stories to life, adding a layer of magic and romance to the physical landmarks you encounter.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

  • • Read up on the myth of Arethusa and Alpheus before taking this walk to fully appreciate the romance of the locations.
  • • Take a moment by the spring to spot the ducks and fish that happily inhabit the mythical waters.
  • • The Fountain of Diana is beautifully lit at night, highlighting the dramatic expressions of the sculpted figures.
  • 1
    HIGHLIGHT

    Spring of Arethusa

    FONTE ARETUSA

    A semi circular stone basin right on the sea where, according to legend, a desperately fleeing nymph was transformed into a freshwater spring to escape her pursuer.

    street view view stop details

    FULL PLACE DETAILS

    ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE

    Heritage Status
    Italian National Heritage
    to next stop
  • 2
    ATTRACTION

    Sanctuary of Athena

    TEMPIO DI ATENA

    The incredibly ancient, sacred ground where sailors once looked up to see a massive golden shield reflecting the sun, assuring them they were under the goddess's protection.

    street view view detailed guide

    FULL PLACE DETAILS

    OVERVIEW & STATS

    Established
    In 1753, making it 273 years old

    ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE

    Heritage Status
    Italian National Heritage
    Architectural Styles
    Baroque
    Architects
    Andrea Palma
    to next stop
  • 3
    WAYPOINT

    Fountain of Diana

    FONTANA DI DIANA

    A monumental sculptural masterpiece depicting the goddess of the hunt fiercely protecting a nymph from an unwanted river god, capturing a pivotal moment of ancient myth in stone.

    street view

    FULL PLACE DETAILS

    OVERVIEW & STATS

    Established
    In 1907, making it 119 years old

    ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE

    Heritage Status
    Italian National Heritage
    Architects
    Giulio Moschetti
    to next stop
  • 4
    WAYPOINT

    Great Harbour

    PORTO GRANDE

    The vast, sweeping bay where the mythical river god Alpheus is said to have mingled his fresh waters with the salty sea after chasing his love across the Mediterranean.

    street view

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