Since 2019, after an agreement between the municipality of Syracuse and Civita, a private operator, the internal walk around the Aretusa spring has become accessible again (although the historic aquarium is currently closed), and it is possible to walk along the waters said to have brought good luck to Admiral Nelson. The legendary freshwater spring, located on the island of Ortigia and tied to the myth of Alpheus and the nymph Aretusa, is an almost obligatory stop for those visiting the city of Archimedes. Beyond the charm of the ancient Greek myth, its papyrus plants and breathtaking view of the great harbor make it a unique place.
Fonte Aretusa: opening hours and tickets
The ticket to access the walk around the fountain is €5. A reduced price of €3 is available for residents, groups of at least 10 visitors, school groups, young people up to 18 years old, Architecture students in Syracuse, and those holding a ticket from the Papyrus Museum. Free entry is provided for children under 6 years old, people with disabilities, school group chaperones, and Icom members.
By presenting the Fonte Aretusa ticket, you can obtain a reduced entry for the Artemision and vice versa.
A multilingual audio guide will also be available, telling the history and myth of the Fonte Aretusa. For more information and updated hours, you can contact Tel. 0931 65861 and 344 0403414 Email
Guided tours in Ortigia
Ortigia is a treasure chest full of history, monuments, and treasures. Hermes Sicily tourist guides offer private guided tours throughout the year, for groups, parties, or individuals. These tours cover the main monuments of Syracuse's historic center and the legendary fountain. Upon request, it is also possible to schedule the internal walk.
From April to October, Hermes Sicily Guides also offers two weekly group tours in Ortigia, in Italian and English. More information is available on the page Ortigia Classic group tour.
