Epipolai

The Castle, with an area of 1.5ha/3.75 acres, is one of the strongest fortifications still remaining from the times of the Greeks. Like the walls, it was built in the reign of Dionysios, between 402 and 397 B.C.In subsequent years, up to the third century B.C., the castle was modified to meet changes in military requirements. It is said that it was here, when Syracuse was besieged by the Romans in 213-212 B.C., that the giant mirror constructed by Archimedes was used to reflect the sun and thereby set fire to the sails of the enemy fleet.

The entrance lies in the west, where there is also a small museum. Thus the castle is entered from the most vulnerable side and the one which was most strongly protected. There are three tombs dug into the rocks here, and behind them lies the main bastion safeguarded by five massive towers. A later, possibly Byzantine wall separates the eastern part, where there were several wells to provide water in times of siege. Underground passages through which troops could pass undetected by the enemy, some of which are still usable, form part of this well-designed complex. Of particular interest is the forcipate gateway below the castle to the north.ViewThere is also a rewarding view from here of the Old Town of Syracuse and the Porto Grande harbor area; it is especially impressive in the afternoon light.