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Arethusa Spring
Attraction
4.5 (11821 reviews)
Ancient, storied fountain next to the ocean with many papyrus plants & resident waterfowl.
Largo Aretusa, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy
+39 0931 451111
Did You Know?
Curious Facts
The Arethusa Fountain is a popular tourist destination in Syracuse, Sicily, and there are many interesting facts about it. For example, the water in the fountain actually comes from the Ciane River, which flows under the Porto Grande (main port) through an impermeable layer of clay.
Arethusa and Alpheus
The fountain is named after the nymph Arethusa, who was pursued by the river god Alpheus. According to Greek mythology, Arethusa was transformed into a spring to escape Alpheus, and the spring is said to be the source of the water that flows into the sea.
Source of Colonization
The Arethusa Fountain was a vital source of fresh water for the ancient Greeks, and it is believed to have been one of the main reasons why they chose to settle on the island of Ortigia.
City of Syracuse
The Arethusa Fountain is not just a beautiful natural wonder, but it is also an important symbol of the city of Syracuse. The city is still known as “aretusea” today, which is a testament to the importance of the fountain in the city’s history and culture.
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