Palazzo Artemide
Siracusa, ItalyPalazzo Artemide is a charming hotel right in the heart of Ortigia, Siracusa's enchanting historic center. It's housed in a pretty pastel pink building that's been welcoming guests since 1880. The hotel looks out over the lively Minerva Square, neighboring the town’s Cathedral and the ancient Temple of Athena, putting guests in a central location full of restaurants, bars and shops to explore.
The soul of Sicily is palpable in every corner of the hotel, which stands out for its simple refinement. The interiors are adorned with the same limestone that was once used for the city’s Greek temples and Baroque buildings, while the secret courtyards outside speak of the island’s Arab architectural influences. A highlight of the hotel is its quaint vertical garden, a green oasis offering a quiet escape from the outside world.
The hotel's restaurant, with its stunning dammuso vaults crafted from tufa stone, offers an ambiance that is both intimate and enchanting. On the menu are dishes that pay homage to the sea and the land, rooted in the Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines. Each dish is a celebration of local produce, with ingredients meticulously sourced from small-scale artisans in the area.
The lounge bar, adorned with a striking golden counter, overlooks the charming Piazza Minerva, providing an ideal setting to savor a drink or indulge in a light meal while taking in the vibrant pulse of city life. This charming spot is also where breakfast is served, featuring a sumptuous buffet brimming with sweet and savory delights, complemented by an abundant selection of fresh fruits.
Rooms and suites at Palazzo Artemide are exquisitely furnished, creating an ambiance of sophisticated serenity that resonates with the stunning beauty of Ortigia. All open onto charming French balconies, with a view either of the lively Piazza Minerva, the picturesque Via Roma, or the quiet inner courtyard.
The walls are painted in soothing palettes of whites and greys that provide a serene backdrop, accented by tasteful bursts of color, such as the elegant blue headboards that subtly nod to the nearby sea.
For guests seeking more space, the Junior Suites and Suites feature a living room and a comfortable double bedroom. Some are spread over two levels, and Suites come with fancy amenities like Lavazza coffee machines complete with a variety of capsules to cater to different coffee preferences.
The Palazzo Artemide, revered as the oldest hotel in town, first opened its doors in 1880. For over a century, this grand establishment has welcomed guests with its timeless elegance and exceptional service, making it a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage.
The hotel's location in the heart of Ortigia Island, on the city's most important and entirely pedestrianized street, couldn't be more convenient. It’s only meters from Piazza Duomo and Piazza Archimede, placing guests at the heart of local culture and history. A brief walk leads to quaint beaches for refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters, while the shops and restaurants dotting the area provide a delightful mix of artisanal shopping and local culinary delights.
The on-site restaurant proudly presents the best of Sicilian gastronomy, offering a menu brimming with dishes that pay homage to the rich flavors of both the land and the sea. The chef places a special emphasis on sourcing top-quality ingredients from local, small-scale suppliers. This guarantees that each dish served here is an authentic representation of Sicilian tradition.
On the southeastern coast of Sicily, the island of Ortigia forms the ancient heart of Syracuse, once the most prominent of the Greek colonies in Italy. Accessible from the mainland via two bridges, Ortigia unfolds as a labyrinth of charming streets where classical architecture melds with opulent Baroque style. Each turn reveals treasures to explore, including the majestic cathedral, which welcomed the first Christian community in Europe, a mythical fountain where papyrus plants thrive, and remnants of ancient temples. Ortigia’s vibrant daily market adds a pulse of contemporary life, offering a gathering place for locals and visitors. And a short drive unveils more of Eastern Sicily's splendor, with attractions like Noto, Marzamemi, and the Vendicari Nature Reserve.
Via Roma, 66, Ortigia, Siracusa, 96100, Italy