In short: The Fonte Aretusa is a natural freshwater spring right on the waterfront promenade of the old-town island of Ortigia in Syracuse – one of the very few places in Europe where papyrus grows naturally. The spot is linked to the myth of the nymph Arethusa, is freely accessible, and makes a short, worthwhile stop (10–20 minutes) on a walk around Ortigia.
Quick Facts
- Type: natural freshwater spring with papyrus (public viewpoint)
- Location: waterfront promenade of Ortigia, Syracuse
- Duration: approx. 10–20 minutes
- Admission: free (view from the promenade)
- Without a car: ideal – walkable within Ortigia, a car is more of a hindrance
- Best time: morning or late afternoon/sunset
Who Is This Visit For?
| Target group | Well suited | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Strolling & exploring Ortigia | free, atmospheric stop by the sea | short stop, not a stand-alone destination |
| Families | ducks and fish in the pool, quickly reached | viewing only from above, no access to the pool |
| Photography & nature | papyrus, view over the Porto Grande | seawater can intrude during heavy swell |
| Mythology & culture | setting of the Arethusa legend | the background only comes alive with some explanation |
What You’ll See
- Spring pool with papyrus – a round to semicircular pool with dense papyrus thickets, home to ducks and fish.
- View over the Porto Grande – the spring sits slightly raised on the seaward promenade with sweeping views over the natural harbour.
- Papyrus Museum – a short walk away, the Museo del Papiro documents Syracuse’s papyrus tradition.
Myth & Background
According to Greek myth, Arethusa was a nymph in the retinue of Artemis. The river god Alpheus pursued her; at her plea, Artemis transformed her into a spring that welled up on Ortigia. Legend has it that Alpheus crossed the sea as a river to be united with her – a poetic explanation for why freshwater bubbles up here in the middle of the sea.
Geologically, an underground aquifer feeds the spring, the same one that also supplies the nearby Ciane river. As a reliable source of freshwater, the Fonte Aretusa was of great importance to the ancient city; to this day it remains one of Syracuse’s landmarks.
Planning Your Visit & Getting There
The Fonte Aretusa lies centrally on the old-town island of Ortigia and is easily reached on foot. A car isn’t needed and is more of a hindrance in Ortigia’s narrow lanes. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll reach the Cathedral of Syracuse and the Castello Maniace; on the mainland, the Parco archeologico della Neapolis is well worth it. For an overview of the city, see our piece on Syracuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fonte Aretusa?
A natural freshwater spring on the island of Ortigia, where papyrus grows and ducks and fish live. It’s named after the mythological nymph Arethusa and is one of Syracuse’s landmarks.
Does the Fonte Aretusa cost admission?
No. The spring is a public viewpoint on Ortigia’s waterfront promenade and is freely accessible. Only optional extras (such as boat or papyrus tours) may carry a charge.
Why does papyrus grow at the Fonte Aretusa?
The Fonte Aretusa, together with the Ciane river near Syracuse, is one of the very few places in Europe where papyrus thrives naturally – favoured by the year-round freshwater source.
How do you get to the Fonte Aretusa?
On foot within the old-town island of Ortigia, on the seaward promenade. A car isn’t needed and is more of a hindrance in Ortigia.
Experience Syracuse & the Southeast
We combine Ortigia, the Neapolis and the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto into a coherent route and book the accommodation. Just send us a no-obligation travel request.
Opening Hours & Admission
The Fonte Aretusa, as a public viewpoint on the promenade, is freely accessible and free of charge. On site, some paid extras are sold (boat or papyrus tours, a small exhibition) – please check their prices and times locally on the day. As of: June 2026.
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