Fonte Aretusa (Fountain of Arethusa), Syracuse
The Fountain of Arethusa is a natural spring located on the enchanting island of Ortygia, which forms the historical center of Syracuse. Steeped in Greek mythology and literary references, this freshwater spring holds a special place in the heart of the city.
According to ancient Greek mythology, the fountain is where the nymph Arethusa, the revered patron figure of ancient Syracuse, emerged to the earth's surface after fleeing from her undersea abode in Arcadia. This tale of her transformation is interwoven with the very essence of Syracuse's identity.
Throughout the annals of literature, the Fountain of Arethusa has made numerous appearances, leaving its mark on the works of celebrated writers. Notable references can be found in John Milton's pastoral elegy, "Lycidas," and his masque "Arcades." Alexander Pope mentioned it in his satirical masterpiece, "The Dunciad," while William Wordsworth's blank verse poem, "The Prelude," also pays homage to this natural wonder.
The illustrious Virgil, in his 10th Eclogue, and Theocritus in his pastoral poem, "Idylls," both acknowledged the fountain. In Virgil's poetic vision, the nymph Arethusa served as the muse for bucolic and pastoral poetry.
Even Herman Melville, the author of "Moby-Dick," was captivated by the Fountain of Arethusa. In his writings, he alludes to the belief that the fountain's waters originated from the Holy Land, adding to its mystique.
The Fountain of Arethusa, along with the River Ciane south of Syracuse and the River Fiume Freddo in the province of Catania, holds the unique distinction of being one of the only places in Europe where papyrus plants flourish. This botanical rarity adds to the allure of the fountain's natural beauty.
Today, the Fountain of Arethusa stands as one of Syracuse's most visited and cherished sites. It represents not only a source of freshwater but also a connection to the city's ancient mythology and literary heritage. In the company of Saint Lucy, it symbolizes the city's motto, the "City of Water and Light," resonating with the spirit of Syracuse and all those who visit this extraordinary place.
According to ancient Greek mythology, the fountain is where the nymph Arethusa, the revered patron figure of ancient Syracuse, emerged to the earth's surface after fleeing from her undersea abode in Arcadia. This tale of her transformation is interwoven with the very essence of Syracuse's identity.
Throughout the annals of literature, the Fountain of Arethusa has made numerous appearances, leaving its mark on the works of celebrated writers. Notable references can be found in John Milton's pastoral elegy, "Lycidas," and his masque "Arcades." Alexander Pope mentioned it in his satirical masterpiece, "The Dunciad," while William Wordsworth's blank verse poem, "The Prelude," also pays homage to this natural wonder.
The illustrious Virgil, in his 10th Eclogue, and Theocritus in his pastoral poem, "Idylls," both acknowledged the fountain. In Virgil's poetic vision, the nymph Arethusa served as the muse for bucolic and pastoral poetry.
Even Herman Melville, the author of "Moby-Dick," was captivated by the Fountain of Arethusa. In his writings, he alludes to the belief that the fountain's waters originated from the Holy Land, adding to its mystique.
The Fountain of Arethusa, along with the River Ciane south of Syracuse and the River Fiume Freddo in the province of Catania, holds the unique distinction of being one of the only places in Europe where papyrus plants flourish. This botanical rarity adds to the allure of the fountain's natural beauty.
Today, the Fountain of Arethusa stands as one of Syracuse's most visited and cherished sites. It represents not only a source of freshwater but also a connection to the city's ancient mythology and literary heritage. In the company of Saint Lucy, it symbolizes the city's motto, the "City of Water and Light," resonating with the spirit of Syracuse and all those who visit this extraordinary place.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Syracuse. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Fonte Aretusa (Fountain of Arethusa) on Map
Sight Name: Fonte Aretusa (Fountain of Arethusa)
Sight Location: Syracuse, Italy (See walking tours in Syracuse)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Syracuse, Italy (See walking tours in Syracuse)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Syracuse, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Syracuse
Creating your own self-guided walk in Syracuse is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
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Our first stop on this walk is the Augustan Arch (Arco Augusteo), the majestic archway built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Nearby, you'll find the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Our first stop on this walk is the Augustan Arch (Arco Augusteo), the majestic archway built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Nearby, you'll find the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
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Founded by Ancient Greek Corinthians and Teneans, the city-state formed influential alliances... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Founded by Ancient Greek Corinthians and Teneans, the city-state formed influential alliances... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles