Sunshine, ancient ruins, and the scent of citrus filled the air as we explored Syracuse, a captivating city on the southeastern coast of Sicily. Today’s adventure, however, was a delightful change of pace. We decided to wander the vibrant port area, immersing ourselves in the city’s local energy.
Legend tells the story of Syracuse’s name. Arethusa, a beautiful nymph, fled the unwanted advances of the river god Alpheus and was whisked away by Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, to the island of Ortygia. Here, a freshwater spring miraculously appeared, giving rise to the name “Syracusa,” which some believe translates to “abundant water.”
One of the most captivating sights in Syracuse is the Temple of Apollo, a majestic Doric structure dating back to the 7th century BC. It was originally a grand sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, light, and prophecy. The temple’s imposing columns, though weathered by time, stand as a testament to the architectural mastery of the ancient Greeks. We learned that the temple was later converted into a Christian church, showcasing the city’s fascinating blend of cultures.
Syracuse boasts a rich demographic tapestry. Italians, of course, make up the majority of the population. However, the city’s history as a major trading center has left its mark. Influences from Greece, Rome, and even Arab rule are evident in the language, architecture, and cuisine. Today, a small but vibrant community of Romanian immigrants adds to the city’s cultural richness.
Today was a very short day for us, but that didn’t diminish the experience. We opted out of an excursion and instead chose to wander the port of the city. There’s a constant hum of activity here, with shops and local vendors displaying their wares. This turned into a delightful treasure hunt! Chuck found a stylish new hat for a steal at just $7, while I stumbled upon a beautiful hand-painted Christmas ornament that will be a perfect souvenir.
To cool off from the Sicilian sun, we indulged in some refreshing almond gelato, a local favorite. With our sweet tooth’s satisfied and spirits high, we decided to head back to the ship.
Tomorrow we are in Naples but since we’ve been there, we are taking a boat trip over to the island of Capri. We are looking forward to it!
May God bless you always.
Chuck and Lea Ann
WorldTravelReynolds 