Via dei Sepolcri (Street of the Tombs), Syracuse

The Street of the Tombs is a captivating 150-meter-long road that leads to the summit of the Temenite hill, nestled within the Neapolis archaeological park in Syracuse, Italy. As you traverse this ancient pathway, you are surrounded by towering rock walls on both sides, and you'll encounter numerous votive aedicules, or small shrines, carved into the rock along its entire length.

Syracuse boasts a rich Greek tradition, and it was well-versed in the practice of hero worship. In antiquity, heroes were individuals considered "demigods" – beings more powerful than mere mortals, nearly akin to deities themselves. Over time, the definition of a "hero" shifted to refer to an exceptional individual who, during their lifetime, had distinguished themselves significantly. These exceptional figures were posthumously "heroicized," meaning they were honored and venerated in much the same way as the mythical heroes of Greek tradition. This practice held great importance in Greek religion.

A notable highlight along the Via dei Sepolcri is a hollow or cavity found towards the end of the road. This cavity depicts the cult of the Dioscuri, the divine twins Castor and Pollux, riding on horseback, as well as Triptolemus on a chariot pulled by snakes. These representations provide insight into the religious and mythological aspects of ancient Syracuse.

The road ascends, initially curving westward and later northward, leading to the highest point on the hill of Syracuse. It is believed that this road may have served as one of the entrances to the Greek Theater of Syracuse due to its proximity to the hill's terrace and the Nymphaeum of the Dionysian actors. Along the Via dei Sepolcri, you can also find Byzantine-era Hypogea, which provide clear evidence that the site continued to be used in later historical periods. The deep grooves left by carts that transported goods to the water mills during the Spanish era are a testament to the road's diverse history and purpose.