The Timeless Beauty of Ortigia in Syracuse

Nestled off the eastern coast of Sicily, Ortigia stands as a living testament to the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines the city of Syracuse. A small, enchanting island steeped in ancient charm, Ortigia beckons national and international visitors with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a palpable sense of timelessness.

In fact, Ortigia boasts a history that spans centuries, with traces of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman civilizations woven into its very fabric. As you wander through the narrow alleys, you'll encounter remnants of ancient temples, Byzantine structures, and Baroque masterpieces, each contributing to the island's unique character.

One of Ortigia's defining features is most certainly its architecture, a harmonious blend of different styles and periods. The Cathedral of Syracuse, dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, stands proudly at the heart of the island. This magnificent structure, with its mix of Norman and Baroque elements, is a testament to the city's religious and architectural evolution.

The lively Piazza del Duomo serves as Ortigia's central square and a hub of activity. Cafés, restaurants, and shops surround the square, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The cathedral, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia form an impressive backdrop, providing a picturesque setting for both locals and tourists.

Ortigia is also home to the Aretusa Fountain, a natural spring surrounded by myth and legend. According to Greek mythology, the fountain is linked to the nymph Aretusa, who was transformed into a spring by Artemis to escape the advances of the river god Alpheus. The serene beauty of the Aretusa Fountain continues to captivate those who visit.

Wandering through Ortigia's labyrinthine alleyways is like stepping back in time. Quaint shops, artisan boutiques, and traditional markets offer a glimpse into Sicilian daily life. The vibrant street markets are a treasure trove of local produce, fresh seafood, and handmade crafts, providing an authentic taste of the island's culture.

Naturally, we cannot not mention that Ortigia is surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, offering stunning views and opportunities for relaxation. The seafront promenade provides a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, with fishing boats bobbing in the harbour and the gentle sea breeze carrying the scent of the Mediterranean.

Also, throughout the year, Ortigia comes alive with cultural events, festivals, and celebrations. From music and arts festivals to religious processions, the island hosts a variety of activities that showcase the depth of its cultural heritage.

Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, is a place where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present. Its timeless beauty, cultural richness, and architectural splendours make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Sicilian experience. As you explore its winding streets and immerse yourself in its history, Ortigia reveals itself as a captivating island where every corner tells a story, and every moment is a celebration of the island's enduring legacy. Furthermore, it offers an excellent starting point for exploring other wonders of south-eastern Sicily before going to rest in one of our fantastic luxury villas with private pool: all the cities of the Sicilian Baroque such as Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Scicli as well as the reserves of Pantalica, Vendicari and Cavagrande del Cassibile. To the north in just over an hour by car you can visit Etna Park, the Alcantara Gorges and Taormina.

Commaldo: Located in the heart of the sun-kissed province of Ragusa, this timeless treasure—the Sipione family's enchanting baglio—is all you are looking for. With a marvellous central court that spans 1200 square metres, a sacred space adorned with the whispering elegance of carob trees and the vibrant hues of flowers, a private swimming pool which is a cool and refreshing haven embraced by the warm embrace of the ancient walls, here guests can immerse themselves in tranquillity, the echoes of laughter mingling with the timeless symphony of nature.

Villa Sirena: There are few words that can describe what it would be like to spend your holidays in this corner of paradise. Villa Sirena cannot be explained, you have to live it and let yourself be lulled by the caress and the scent of the sea breeze, getting lost in its 12,000 square meters of garden naturally adorned with rocks, palm trees and oleanders. Its silent majesty will inebriate your senses, its natural swimming pool set among the rocks will refresh your skin in the hottest moments, its tennis court will allow you not to lose your passions even when away from home. This luxuriant abode will make you feel like the masters of the world while your gaze is lost in the immensity of the sea. Artemare: Delightful villa with private infinity pool located a few kilometers from Ortigia, on the Maddalena peninsula. With its 280 square meters, it will offer you a breathtaking and uninterrupted view over the bay of Syracuse.This splendid residence divided on two levels, with a modern and lush taste, offers 4 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, a large living area with sofas and TV, dining room and equipped kitchen.With direct and private access to the crystalline sea of ​​the Plemmirio Reserve, you will be lulled by its breeze in the splendid outdoor patio while enjoying a good meal or simply a moment of peace on its comfortable sofas.

Artemare: Delightful villa with private infinity pool located a few kilometres from Ortigia, on the Maddalena peninsula. With its 280 square metres, it will offer you a breathtaking and uninterrupted view of the bay of Syracuse. This splendid residence divided on two levels, with a modern and lush taste, offers 4 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, a large living area with sofas and TV, dining room and equipped kitchen. With direct and private access to the crystalline sea of ​​the Plemmirio Reserve, you will be lulled by its breeze in the splendid outdoor patio while enjoying a good meal or simply a moment of peace on its comfortable sofas.

Villa Morfeo: POV: You are at home after a very long day at work. You still have to cook, iron, clean, and start fantasizing about your summer vacation. You dream of a luxurious villa with a private infinity pool and you see yourself there relaxing under the warm August sun while you are inebriated by the view of the enchanting crystalline sea of ​​the Plemmirio Marine Reserve with your fresh and thirst-quenching aperitif in hand ... why dream ? Villa Morfeo is the place for you! Three double suites with en-suite bathroom and private terrace, 2000 square meters of garden and a breathtaking infinity pool that offers you a view of Syracuse like you've never imagined.

Villa Ammos: Villa Ammos is located in the splendid residential and seaside area of ​​Arenella, 10 km from Syracuse and 5 km from Fontane Bianche, in wonderful south-eastern Sicily. A popular destination for national and international tourism that embraces the town in the summer months, the area offers a very wide range of restaurants, bars, supermarkets, beaches and lidos for all tastes. The house, which has direct access to the sea through a private pedestrian passage, was recently built and has a modern and refined architecture, divided into two floors, with large and bright spaces designed for the comfort of its guests and to give unique and unforgettable holidays.

Il Cavaliere: Through an avenue adorned with centuries-old olive and almond trees, you will reach this modern villa immersed in a typical corner of the Mediterranean countryside that will give you peace and quiet. Sitting in the large patio in front of the house, you will enjoy the wonderful view of the Ionian Sea and you can cool off in the charming swimming pool surrounded by vegetation.

Villa Nirvana: With a 3000 m2 garden, enriched by a fragrant rose garden, a well-kept orchard and a wonderful private lava stone swimming pool, Villa Nirvana is the ideal place to relax and rediscover the balance between mind and body. A few kilometers from Syracuse, the property is located in a strategic position that allows you to reach the most beautiful beaches and most evocative places in south-eastern Sicily.

La Maddalena: Splendid villa located within the enchanting Plemmirio Marine Reserve. With a predominantly Mediterranean and modern taste, with a well-kept garden of 3000 m2. inside which there is the wonderful private swimming pool set in the local rock. The ideal place for your summer holidays, a stone's throw from the crystal clear sea of ​​south-eastern Sicily which will envelop your evenings with its light breeze.

Costa Bianca: Costa Bianca is a magnificent villa immersed in a Mediterranean-style garden of 3000 m2 where, among the olive trees, carob trees and palm trees, there is a splendid heated salt-purified swimming pool with hydromassage, a delightful tennis court available to all those guests who do not want to give up their hobby during the holidays, a ping pong table and a fully equipped barbecue area. The property is located just 300 m from the sea, in the heart of the fantastic Plemmirio Marine Reserve which, like a diamond of inestimable value, illuminates the south-eastern coast of Sicily in the province of Syracuse.

Contrada: Wonderful modern villa immersed in the colors and scents of the countryside of Noto, a baroque city par excellence and defined as a world heritage site by UNESCO as well as being one of the most popular destinations for national and international tourists. With its splendid private swimming pool, it is ready to give you moments of peace and quiet surrounded by Sicilian nature and moments of joy and sharing in its large terrace on the first floor of the main house with a breathtaking panorama that slopes down from the greenery of the south-eastern countryside towards the blue of the Mediterranean Sea silent and almost motionless in the background.

Villa Nica: Villa with a strong and elegant character halfway between the Vendicari Nature Reserve and the tourist-seaside village of Marzamemi. You can cool off in the wonderful private salt-purified swimming pool or relax in the adjacent shaded patio with its comfortable sofas while a few steps away you can reach the famous beach of San Lorenzo, one of the most beautiful in south-eastern Sicily.

Villa Mia: A few steps from the golden sandy beach of San Lorenzo, in the formidable south-eastern Sicily, stands this wonderful villa surrounded by about 2000 square metres of garden full of Mediterranean plants. Ideal for a relaxing holiday, from the largest to the smallest, with its private swimming pool surrounded by the solarium with umbrellas and sun loungers. A quiet glimpse a few kilometres from the Vendicari Nature Reserve and the baroque towns of the Val di Noto.


Il Tuffetto: Il Tuffetto (lit. little dive) is not only the name of the villa but also what you will do in the middle of the south-eastern Sicilian countryside. A small jewel in the Val di Noto surrounded by rosemary, thyme, lavender, sage and other Mediterranean-flavored plants that will awaken your senses. From the terrace and the wonderful private swimming pool, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the countryside and the beautiful Ionian Sea. What are you waiting for? Book your holidays in Sicily in this small earthly paradise.

Papeda: Wonderful villa with a modern and Mediterranean taste with a splendid private swimming pool surrounded by an English lawn. The house is immersed in one hectare of land full of typical trees such as olive and fig trees and enriched by a suggestive citrus grove that will give you the typical scents of south-eastern Sicily. A few kilometers from the wonderful beaches of Vendicari and Eloro, let yourself be enchanted by the typical colors of the Syracuse countryside which, with its thousand shades of green, slopes towards the turquoise of the sea in the background.

Mennula: Fantastic villa immersed in the unrivaled countryside of the Val di Noto, full of colors and scents that will awaken your senses. Rich in many shady corners naturally provided by the olive and almond trees that surround the house, let yourself be lulled by the quiet countryside or dive into the cool swimming pool while enjoying the warm sun of south-eastern Sicily.