Built about 565 BC when Syracuse was considered an important Greek city with over 300,000 people. Built on Ortigia Island to honour Apollo, it remains a very important historical site. The ruins of the rectangular temple give you some idea, but it’s best to visit the Syracuse Museum to understand its significance. It has been transformed in different eras from a Christian Church (Byzantine, 6th C, AD) to a mosque (Arab, 9th C) to a Christian Basilica (Normans, 11th C) to a barracks (Spanish 16th C) and even a quarry (Charles V of Habsburg, early 20th C)

This is probably the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. The Temple of Apollo was built by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. It went through many transformations becoming a Byzantine church, Islamic mosque, and a church. Today you can only see it from an elevated position, but it is still interesting to see.

This ancient temple was the first stop on our walking tour in Syracuse. The temple was built in the VI. century BC. After the Greek period, it was a Byzantine church and an Arab mosque. During the Norman rule, it was once again a Christian church. Later, it was converted to Spanish barracks. Now only the ruins of it are visible.

The temple is set in a square that looks like it was built over in past times. Not a great deal to see as it has mostly either fallen down or the stones been used for something else. Not worth a trip just to see it, on the other hand if your passing work a quick look. The information boards are unreadable.

This is the centerpiece of the island, and probably the first thing you see as you walk around. We were lucky to have a view from our guest house as it is even more appealing at night. It’s fenced off, so only a passing view can be appreciated. Lots of archeological sites spread around Sicily. Enjoy them all.