Fonte Aretusa Ortigia
A legendary freshwater spring in Ortigia where myth meets nature, boasting rare papyrus and charming waterfowl by the sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Fonte Aretusa Ortigia
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary freshwater spring in Ortigia where myth meets nature, boasting rare papyrus and charming waterfowl by the sea.
"A unique place in the world, where time seems to stand still."
📸 Capture the Legend
The interplay of fresh and saltwater, papyrus, and waterfowl makes for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Fonte Aretusa is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. Enjoy the surrounding Ortigia streets too. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mythical Spring
Ortigia, Syracuse
Witness the legendary freshwater spring where nymph Arethusa sought refuge, a unique natural wonder by the sea.
Spontaneous Papyrus
Fonte Aretusa
See the rare sight of wild papyrus plants growing naturally in Europe, a testament to the spring's unique ecosystem.
Waterfowl Haven
Fonte Aretusa
Observe the resident ducks and geese gracefully navigating the clear, fresh waters of the fountain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
Ortigia's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Legend
The interplay of fresh and saltwater, papyrus, and waterfowl makes for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Fonte Aretusa is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. Enjoy the surrounding Ortigia streets too. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Fresh Water Wonder
Marvel at the unique phenomenon of fresh water emerging right next to the salty sea. :droplet:
📜 Learn the Myth
Understanding the legend of Arethusa and Alpheus enhances the experience. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Legend
The interplay of fresh and saltwater, papyrus, and waterfowl makes for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Fonte Aretusa is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. Enjoy the surrounding Ortigia streets too. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Fresh Water Wonder
Marvel at the unique phenomenon of fresh water emerging right next to the salty sea. :droplet:
📜 Learn the Myth
Understanding the legend of Arethusa and Alpheus enhances the experience. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fonte Aretusa is celebrated for its unique natural phenomenon of freshwater meeting the sea and its rich mythological history. Visitors appreciate the rare papyrus plants and the charming waterfowl. However, some reviews mention that the site could benefit from better maintenance.
"Presenting Mrs. Ashley Tirzah Moon & Mrs. Guidance River Moon 👰🏻♀️💍👰🏿♀️💕🔔💒🇮🇹🌈
We are so excited to share our Italian wedding with y'all. This day was simply magical in every single way. I am so blessed to have the honor of marrying my soul mate in such a beautiful and romantic place; in front of my professors and classmates. I am so grateful to all of the people that made our day breathtakingly special from start to finish. We began our nuptuals with an intimate prayer in front of the Cathedral, just between me and my bride. After the ceremony in front of the cathedral we exchanged vows and joined our souls with a beautiful water ceremony at Fonte Aretusa. Followed by a beautiful dinner overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Wedding #1 is complete, now to do it all over again in front of our friends and family in Santa Barbara in just a few days time! 🛐👰🏻♀️💍👰🏿♀️🔔🗓️
Absolutely amazing! Such a beautiful place to walk around and see the Mediterranean Sea and different birds. This was a cute little spot the directly into the walkway."
Chef Guidance
"You can see papyrus here—it used to be a water source for ancient Syracuse.
Papyrus is the plant ancient Egyptians used to make early paper.
They’d cut the stalks, press them together, and dry them to write on.
Fun fact: that’s where the word “paper” comes from."
Anais Han
"The Fountain of Arethusa is a place full of history and myth, beautifully set by the sea in Ortigia. According to Greek legend, the nymph Arethusa was transformed into this spring by the goddess Artemis, and the river Alpheus flows underground to unite with her waters. It’s especially remarkable because it contains fresh water despite being located right next to the sea. You can even see wild papyrus and other plants growing there, which adds to its charm. Worth a short visit if you’re nearby."
Παντελής Διαμάντης
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fonte Aretusa is located in the heart of Ortigia, the historic island of Syracuse. You can reach Ortigia by car (parking is available outside the ZTL - Limited Traffic Zone) or by public transport. Once on the island, it's a pleasant walk to the fountain, as it's a pedestrian-friendly area. Many visitors enjoy exploring Ortigia on foot, discovering its charm along the way.
Yes, Fonte Aretusa is situated in a very accessible part of Ortigia, making it a natural stop on any walking tour of the island. The area is flat and well-maintained, allowing for easy exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fonte Aretusa is a public outdoor attraction and does not require an entrance ticket. You can visit and admire it freely as part of your exploration of Ortigia.
As an open-air public space, Fonte Aretusa does not have specific opening or closing hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Fonte Aretusa is renowned for its unique characteristic: it's a freshwater spring located just meters from the salty Mediterranean Sea. It's also famous for the wild papyrus plants that grow there, a rare sight in Europe, and is steeped in ancient Greek mythology. 
The legend tells of the nymph Arethusa, who, pursued by the river god Alpheus, prayed to Artemis for help. Artemis transformed her into a spring, and Alpheus, in his relentless pursuit, followed her underground, his waters merging with hers.
Swimming in Fonte Aretusa is generally not permitted to preserve the natural habitat and historical significance of the site. It's a place to observe and appreciate, not to enter the water.
Visitors can often spot various waterfowl, including ducks and geese, swimming in the fountain's fresh waters. You might also see fish like bream.
While the natural beauty is undeniable, some visitors have noted that maintenance could be improved, especially during certain times of the year. However, it remains a significant and charming historical site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Fonte Aretusa is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes in Ortigia. Many offer beautiful views of the sea or the charming streets, providing a perfect spot for a meal or aperitivo after visiting the fountain.
You can expect a wide range of Sicilian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and local specialties. Many establishments offer both traditional dining and more casual options like aperitivo.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities include the juxtaposition of the freshwater spring against the backdrop of the sea, the unique papyrus plants, the resident waterfowl, and the surrounding baroque architecture of Ortigia. The golden hour light can also create magical shots.
While the fountain is accessible at night, photography might be more challenging due to lighting conditions. However, the illuminated fountain can offer a different, atmospheric perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's an open-air attraction in a pedestrian-friendly area, it's easy to navigate with strollers. Combine your visit with a walk along the waterfront or a stop at a nearby cafe for gelato, making it a relaxed and enjoyable outing for everyone.
🏛️ History & Mythology Buffs
+1Beyond the legend, the site's historical significance as a freshwater source for ancient Syracuse and its unique papyrus growth make it a compelling study. Exploring the surrounding Ortigia island, with its Greek temples and baroque architecture, further enriches the historical immersion.
📸 Photographers
+1Consider visiting during the golden hour for soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the scene. The charming streets and architecture of Ortigia surrounding the fountain also present numerous opportunities for capturing stunning architectural and street photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Arethusa and Alpheus
+1To escape Alpheus's relentless pursuit, Arethusa prayed to Artemis for help. The goddess transformed her into a spring of fresh water, allowing her to hide. However, Alpheus, undeterred, found her and merged his own river waters with her spring, flowing underground to unite with her in Ortygia. This myth explains the unique phenomenon of a freshwater spring emerging right beside the salty sea, a constant reminder of their legendary union.
This story adds a layer of romance and historical depth to the Fonte Aretusa, making it a captivating destination for visitors interested in both natural beauty and ancient tales. It's a place where myth and reality beautifully intertwine.
The Unique Ecosystem of Papyrus
The papyrus plant holds immense historical importance, as the ancient Egyptians used its pith to create a form of paper, from which the word 'paper' is derived. Seeing these plants thriving in their natural habitat at Fonte Aretusa offers a tangible connection to ancient history and a glimpse into a unique botanical phenomenon.
Visitors are often fascinated by this rare botanical sight, which adds another layer of intrigue to the Fonte Aretusa experience. It's a reminder of the island's rich natural heritage and its connection to ancient civilizations.
Ortigia: A Living Museum
+1Beyond the fountain, Ortigia boasts attractions like the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, home to the Syracuse Cathedral built on the foundations of an ancient Greek temple. Other must-sees include the Temple of Apollo, the Castello Maniace, and the charming Jewish quarter. The island's vibrant local market is also a sensory delight, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a lively atmosphere.
+1Exploring Ortigia is an experience in itself, with its picturesque waterfront promenade (Lungomare Alfeo), hidden courtyards, and the constant presence of the sea. Fonte Aretusa serves as a perfect starting point or a tranquil interlude within this captivating historical setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit