Page 18 - The Sicilian Experience Brochure

Siracusa

In Saracen, Byzantium and Bourbon times, the city suffered Palazzo Beneventano, Siracusa
invasion and then ‘salvation’ from opposing forces. Siracusa,
the “fairest of cities” according to the Roman Cicero, was a first nights of some plays by Aeschylus, the greatest of Greek
powerhouse of intellectual thought in that part of the dramatists. Classical plays are still performed here today.
Mediterranean colonised by the Greeks. It was home to The island of Ortigia, joined to the mainland of Siracusa by two
Archimedes, who is reputed to have set the Roman fleet on fire bridges, is a fascinating web of ancient baroque buildings and
by reflecting a mirror onto ships’ sails. He is also the man who narrow streets with two main piazzas buzzing with an
ran naked through the streets crying ‘Eureka’ (“I have found assortment of restaurants, bars and cafes. It boasts a wealth of
it”) after making a scientific discovery in his bath.
ancient treasures including the Cathedral, Arethusa fountain
Not surprisingly, Siracusa has a wealth of ancient remains, Palazzo Bellomo housing the city’s fines arts museum which
including the pillars in the splendidly simple Christian cathedral includes works by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina. From
dating from the seventh century. Its magnificent 15,000-seat the harbour it is possible in high season to take a short boat trip
theatre, the best preserved outside Greece, was the venue for across to a quiet sandy beach.

Ortea Palace ★★★★★ Luxury
The luxury hotel Ortea Palace occupies an
imposing position by the water’s edge at the
entrance to historical Ortigia. It started life in
the early 1900’s as Siracusa’s post office head-
quarters and in 2018 was lavishly converted
into a stunning luxurious hotel whilst still
retaining the glory of its former heritage. The
interior is an opulent mix of marble, glass and
elegant furnishings. Public areas include a
heated indoor swimming pool, spa and fitness
centre. From here you are perfectly placed to
explore on foot Ortigia’s historic monuments
and fine baroque architecture as well as its
many restaurants, cafes and shops.

FACILITIES
● 75 rooms and suites b/s wc
● 2 restaurants
● bar
● indoor swimming pool
● spa/wellness centre
Ortea Palace
● fitness centre
● hairdresser
● air conditioning
● lift

Ortea Palace Ortea Palace
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