The Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius
The great theatre of Syracuse and an artificial cave with incredible acoustics
The Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse gathers the monuments of the ancient Greek and Roman city. The Greek theatre, carved into the rock of the Temenite hill in the fifth century BC and enlarged later, is one of the largest of the ancient world: here Aeschylus staged his tragedies. Every year, from May to July, the INDA foundation brings classical drama back to its stone seats.
Nearby, in the Latomia del Paradiso, an ancient limestone quarry now full of lemon trees and oleanders, opens the Ear of Dionysius, an artificial cave 23 metres high, shaped like an ear. The name was given by Caravaggio, who visited in 1608, and legend says the tyrant Dionysius used its amplifying acoustics to eavesdrop on prisoners. The park also includes the Roman amphitheatre and the colossal Altar of Hiero II.
Tip: attending a play in the Greek theatre at sunset is unforgettable; book well in advance. The nearby Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum is one of the most important in Italy.
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