La Piazza Duomo (Cathedral Square), Syracuse (must see)

Cathedral Square is a stunning showcase of baroque town planning, a place where history and architecture converge in a harmonious blend of ancient and more recent influences. This long, rectangular piazza, bordered by magnificent palazzi, occupies the site that was once Syracuse's ancient acropolis, a fortified citadel.

While the original Greek structures have largely disappeared, signs of their enduring presence remain. If you cast your gaze along the side of the Duomo, the city's cathedral, you'll notice a series of sturdy Doric columns seamlessly integrated into the cathedral's architecture. These columns stand as silent witnesses to the square's ancient legacy.

To the north of the Duomo, high above Via Minerva, you'll find Palazzo Municipale, also known as Palazzo Senatoriale, the residence of Syracuse's city council. Constructed in 1629 by Juan Vermexio, a Spanish architect affectionately nicknamed 'Il Lucertolone' (the Lizard), the palace bears the architect's signature—a small lizard—carved into a stone on the left corner of the cornice. This charming detail serves as a lasting testament to the city's architectural heritage.

On the opposite side of the Duomo lies the graceful Palazzo Arcivescovile, a 17th-century palace that houses the Biblioteca Alagoniana and a valuable collection of rare 13th-century manuscripts. Its presence on the square adds to the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines the area.

Overlooking the square's northwestern corner stands the Palazzo Beneventano del Bosco, an edifice adorned with an exquisite 18th-century facade. It adds to the square's architectural charm with its elegant design.

At the southern end of Cathedral Square is the Chiesa di Santa Lucia alla Badia, a church of historical and artistic significance. The square encompasses an array of notable buildings and cultural treasures, making it a focal point for visitors to explore the diverse heritage and rich legacy of Syracuse. Each step taken in this square offers a journey through the ages, where past and present merge in a captivating blend of architectural splendor.