Syracuse — Ancient City of Archimedes on Sicily's Shore

Syracuse is one of the greatest cities of the ancient world, a cradle of Western civilization and birthplace of the genius Archimedes. This city on Sicily's southeastern coast once rivaled Athens and Rome in power and wealth. Today, Syracuse is a living open-air museum: a grand Greek theater, mysterious quarries, the baroque island of Ortygia, and crystal-clear sea. The historic center is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

History — From Greek Colony to World Power

Syracuse was founded in 734 BC by Corinthian colonists ...