Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse, is the jewel of the city. It is a pleasure to stroll along the waterfront and even more to get lost in the narrow streets of Giudecca, Spirduta, or Graziella districts. There are also many churches of artistic interest in Ortigia, although only a part of them (in addition to the cathedral Santa Lucia alla Badia and San Pietro) are regularly accessible to visitors. During the Christmas holidays 2023, an event will allow visitors to explore some of these hidden gems or attend concerts inside them. The churches that will be accessible include the Church of San Martino, one of the oldest in Syracuse, which features a beautiful medieval altarpiece; the Church of San Giuseppe, commissioned by the carpenters' brotherhood and located in the square of the same name; and the Church of San Benedetto, in Baroque style, which now hosts celebrations of the Romanian Orthodox rite.
The three churches will be open for guided tours with a suggested donation on:
December 23, 24, 25, and 26, 2023 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Additionally, two concerts are scheduled in the Church of San Giuseppe:
- December 23, at 8:00 PM: Cantunovu
- December 30, at 8:00 PM: Coro Ad Dei Laudem
These initiatives are for charitable purposes, and the proceeds will be donated to healthcare initiatives in South Sudan. The openings are organized by the Parish of San Martino Vescovo, which can be contacted for further information.
