Sicily, one of Italy’s top up-and-coming tourist destinations, is renowned for its exceptional climate, the warmth and hospitality of its people, the beauty and originality of its monuments, its pristine beaches and the unique Italian cuisine fused with various local specialties.

The largest of all the islands in the Mediterranean, Sicily is an autonomous region which has always been considered a crucial location by the various historical empires of Europe. Siracusa was described as the greatest and most beautiful city of all Ancient Greece by Cicero. Over the centuries many invaders visited and ruled the island contributing to the rich and varied culture of Sicily; the arts, cuisine, architecture and language have all been influenced by Greek, Roman, Germanic, Arabic and Norman conquerors.

Syracuse (Italian : Siracusa) is located in the south-east of Sicily beside the Ionian Sea and as it is 2,700 years old is noted for its rich history (particularly its Greek history), culture, legends, nature, sea, art, amphitheatres and architecture. It is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

		There are numerous ancient buildings worth visiting in the historic centre on the island of Ortigia ; there is an interesting Cathedral, the Fontana Aretusa, the Castello Maniace and the Temple of Apollo. The Temple of Apollo has undergone many changes, becoming a Church in Byzantine times and then a mosque under Arab domination.

Many of the city’s best sights are to be found in the excellent Archaeological Park of Neapolis. Here you will find the Greek Theatre, one of the largest and best preserved of its kind. There are still performances held here to this day. Please enquire at the reception for information regarding shows. Close to the theatre are the latomie, stone quarries, the most popular being the Orecchio di Dionisio (Ear of Dionysius).

The bus station is 7 km away as is the train station.

Many shops, bars, restaurants, pizzerias, minimarkets and newsagents are close to La Rosa sul Mare resort. It is also possible to hire boats nearby.