Sicily may just be my favorite place in the world.
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| streets of Ortygia |
I had no idea that I would love it so much. From the incredible ruins and historical sites, to the fabulous beaches, from the incredible views to the completely outstanding local cuisine, from the spectacular local wines to the ever smiling, friendly people, Sicily has it all.
One of the (many) places I loved visiting was
Ortygia, the island part of the ancient city of Siracusa.
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| on the street in Ortygia |
Ortygia is tiny - only 1km x500m, and the best way to see it is on foot. You can't get lost walking through the narrow streets and alleyways, as walking far enough in any direction leads you back to the sea.
Every which way you turn you are enveloped in 2500+ years of history.
From Apollo's temple built in the 7th century BC
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| Apollo's Temple, Ortygia Sicily |
to the Duomo, who's bottom most excavations have unearthed remnants from the ancient Siculi, followed by the Greeks in the 5th century BC, then the Christians added to it in the 7th century AD and finally its baroque facade which was erected in the 18th century,
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| columns in the Ortygia Duomo, dating back to 500 BC |
to the castle fortress built by Frederick II in 1194, Ortygia is an historical gem. Every building, every alley is fascinating.
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| acordian player in Piazza Del Duomo, Ortygia Sicily |
The heart of Ortygia is no doubt the beautiful, baroque Piazza del Duomo, the perfect spot to stop for lunch.
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| piazza del duomo, Ortygia Sicily |
Glaringly bright white, offset by the incredibly blue sky, this is Sicily as I had always imagined it.
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| Piazza Del Duomo, Ortygia Sicily |
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| salad for lunch in Ortygia |
Before leaving the island, a quick stop at the morning market is a must. Fresh fruits and vegetables and fish - everything you need to make a delicious dinner with a local flair.
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| Ortygia Fish Market |
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| Ortygia market, image Lonelyplanet |
Private yachts moored off the island
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| boat in Ortygia |
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| locals mix with tourists |
Sunbathers lie out on the rocks
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| sunbathing in Ortygia |
I can't wait to go back....
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