Ortygia

island, Italy

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July 1, 2026

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Ortygia is an island off the coast of Sicily, Italy, that forms the historical nucleus of the city of Syracuse. It is known for its ancient Greek heritage, with remnants of temples dedicated to Athena and Apollo still visible. The island's name is derived from the Greek word "Ortygia," which was also used to refer to the island of Delos, considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.12

Ortygia has a rich history, having been settled by Corinthians around 734 BCE and later becoming a significant Greek city in ancient Sicily. It played a crucial role in conflicts with Carthage and Athens and has experienced periods of rule by various powers, including Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish. Today, Ortygia is a charming part of Syracuse, attracting tourists with its medieval architecture and historical sites.1

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Syracuse
…by the southward-projecting island of Ortygia, which half-encloses the bay known as the Great Harbour. The remains of antiquity on the continuously inhabited Ortygia are less striking than those in Neapolis, which was long a country district. Archaeological remains in Neapolis include the Greek theatre of Hieron II (3rd century…
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…by the southward-projecting island of Ortygia, which half-encloses the bay known as the Great Harbour. The remains of antiquity on the continuously inhabited Ortygia are less striking than those in Neapolis, which was long a country district. Archaeological remains in Neapolis include the Greek theatre of Hieron II (3rd century…
Read More