Fountain of Arethusa
Fonte Aretusa
A freshwater spring pool by the sea on Ortigia, fringed with papyrus, carrying the Greek myth of the nymph Arethusa and serving as a symbol of Syracuse.
The Fountain of Arethusa is a semicircular freshwater pool hugging the sea, with rare wild papyrus for Europe, along with ducks and fish. Legend says that the nymph Arethusa, fleeing the pursuit of the river god Alpheus, dived underground near Olympia in Greece and emerged as a spring on Ortigia. The river god crossed the sea to join her, which is why the spring is regarded as a symbol of Syracuse, and ancient coins bear Arethusa's head. The pool lies on the western shore of Ortigia, beside the Alfeo seafront promenade (Lungomare Alfeo). Viewing from the railing is free and possible all day. Strolling the seafront at sunset to watch the harbor is a classic local pastime, with many bars and restaurants nearby. The fountain is about a 3-minute walk from the Cathedral Square and can be visited together with the cathedral and Castello Maniace.
Opening hours
Open all day (free)
Nearby sights
- Ortygia, Syracuse
- Castello Maniace
- Ortigia Market
- Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Lacrime
- Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum
- Catacombs of San Giovanni
- Ciane River Papyrus
- Neapolis Archaeological Park