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Monument · Siracusa, Sicília
Fonte Aretusa
A freshwater spring by the sea in Ortigia, with papyrus plants and ducks, linked to the myth of the nymph Aretusa. It lies on the seafront, beside the Foro Italico promenade.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fonte Aretusa
Fonte Aretusa is a freshwater spring that bubbles up a few metres from the sea on the west coast of Ortigia. The water forms a semicircular pool, enclosed by a stone wall, where papyrus plants grow and ducks and fish live.
The name comes from a Greek myth: the nymph Aretusa, fleeing the river-god Alpheus, was transformed into a spring by the goddess Artemis and crossed the sea beneath the earth until she emerged in Ortigia. Alpheus followed her and mingled his waters with hers. The spring appears on ancient coins of Siracusa, with the nymph's head surrounded by dolphins.
The papyrus reeds are a rarity: Siracusa is one of the few places in Europe where the plant grows naturally, also on the banks of the river Ciane near the city.
The spring sits at the start of the Foro Italico, the tree-lined promenade by the large harbour, with views over the bay.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 minutes; more if you combine it with the seafront walk.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the seafront fills with people and the sun sets over the large harbour.
How to get there
On foot, 2 minutes from the Piazza Duomo, down the Via Picherali.
Tip
View the spring from above from the wall at Largo Aretusa, then go down to the Foro Italico to walk along the seafront. Entry is free.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fonte Aretusa
Is the water of the Fonte Aretusa fresh?
Yes. It is a freshwater spring that wells up just a few meters from the sea.
What is the legend of the spring?
The nymph Aretusa, fleeing the river-god Alpheus, was transformed into a spring by Artemis and emerged in Ortigia after crossing the sea underground.
Are the papyri natural?
Yes. Siracusa is one of the few places in Europe where papyrus grows naturally.
Do you have to pay to see it?
No. The spring is in a public area, on the waterfront.