We had two and a half days in Siracusa. While more touristy than Ragusa it has its charms. We had an apartment on the island part of town, Ortiga. It is a mix of old streets, designer shops and lots of restaurants. On our first day we toured the cathedral. It is remarkable for the fact that it started as a Greek temple and the columns remain as part of the church walls. The patron saint is Saint Lucia who was martyred by being tied up, burned with tar, stabbed in the neck and had her eyes cut out. There was a room of donated items that had a whole case of objects with eyes.

Walking through the streets with many shops selling magnets and ceramics we came across a chocolate store. Most of the chocolate was from Modica, a nearby town. But this store made their own variations with it and had tastings. The woman working in the store is a wine expert so we got her advice on wine and bars. We went to one place for drinks.

We all met at the store and bought ravioli and a basil pesto to have for dinner. Along with a fresh salad, it was a very good meal. Plus some nice wine.

The next day we went to the mainland for the amazing park of Greek and Roman ruins. The scale of it all is most remarkable. At the end of the day I split off to see a puppet show. It was delightful and the small theater was sold out.

The next day we circumnavigate the island and discovered a variety of swimming areas. Sand, rocks and man made platforms.

Our last night ended with cocktails at Cortile Verga (for the 3rd night), back at the plaza by the cathedral, and a revisit of the Temple of Apollo.