10. Tonnara di Santa Panagia (Siracusa)
Sicilian tuna nets: The Tonnara di Santa Panagia is located north of Syracuse, along the coast, and is one of the lesser-known historical tuna nets in Sicily, but an important site of the area’s maritime heritage. The tonnara probably dates back to the medieval period and, although it is now disused and partly in ruins, it is a significant testimony to tuna fishing activities in this part of Sicily.
History and Architecture
The Tonnara di Santa Panagia was built in a strategic position that allowed the sighting of tuna shoals. The structure stretches along the coast and included several buildings for tuna processing and the storage of nets. Today, the tuna fishery is an attractive destination for those wishing to explore the coastal areas of Syracuse, with a natural landscape that offers an immersion into the history of Sicilian fishing.
What To Do and See
- Exploring the Santa Panagia Coast: Strolling along the coast allows you to admire an unspoilt landscape overlooking the sea.
- Visiting Syracuse and Ortigia: The historic centre of Syracuse and the nearby island of Ortigia offer a rich historical and cultural heritage.
- Snorkelling and Diving: The waters around Tonnara are ideal for those who enjoy diving and snorkelling, with rocky seabeds and marine fauna.
Where to Eat
- Locanda Maniace – Restaurant on the island of Ortigia, with typical Sicilian dishes and fish specialities
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 7.5 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “Locanda Maniace, Ortigia, Siracusa”.
- Osteria da Mariano – Historic tavern located in the centre of Syracuse, known for its typical cuisine
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 6.8 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “Osteria da Mariano, Siracusa”
- Ristorante Don Camillo – Haute cuisine restaurant in the heart of Ortigia, with a Sicilian and creative menu
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 7.6 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “Ristorante Don Camillo, Ortigia, Siracusa”
Where to Sleep
- Hotel Roma – Historical and luxury hotel in Ortigia, with elegant rooms
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 7,3 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “Hotel Roma, Ortigia, Siracusa”.
- Caportigia Boutique Hotel – Boutique Hotel located in Syracuse, near the historic centre
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 6 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “Caportigia Boutique Hotel, Syracuse”
- B&B La Via della Giudecca – Charming B&B in the Jewish quarter of Ortigia
- .Distance from the Tonnara di Santa Panagia: 7,4 km.
- Search on Google Maps: “B&B La Via della Giudecca, Ortigia, Siracusa”
What to see in the surroundings
- Neapolis Archaeological Park: Archaeological site with the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre and the Ear of Dionysius
- .Distance: 5.2 km from the tuna fishery
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- Ortigia Island: The historic centre of Syracuse, a UNESCO heritage site, full of churches, historic buildings and squares
- .Distance: 7.5 km from the tuna fishery
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- Castello Maniace: Fortress located on the edge of Ortigia, overlooking the sea and rich in history
- .Distance: 7.8 km from the tonnara.