Latomia del Paradiso (Latomia of Paradise), Syracuse

The Latomia of Paradise is one of the many ancient stone quarries that have played a significant role in the city's history. These quarries were actively worked from as early as the sixth century BC and extended to depths exceeding 20 meters, showcasing the impressive scale of these excavation sites. Among the various quarries, the Latomia del Paradiso holds particular fame and is now part of the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis.

The Latomia del Paradiso is located to the far west of the quarry complex, near the Altar of Hieron II. While it has experienced some degree of closure and inaccessibility, a portion of its route is open to visitors. It is notable for its extreme depths, with some sections plunging to an astonishing 45 meters. This extraordinary depth is a testament to the extensive quarrying efforts that took place in ancient Syracuse. It was within quarries like the Latomia del Paradiso that some of the largest stone blocks were hewn from the rock, attesting to the city's architectural ambitions and craftsmanship.

Inside the Latomia del Paradiso, visitors will encounter fascinating cavities and chambers, each with its unique character. Notable features include the Ear of Dionysus, a renowned natural formation with exceptional acoustic properties. The Ear of Dionysus is a cavernous structure with a distinctive shape that enhances sound, making even the faintest whispers audible to those within.

Another intriguing element is the Grotta dei Cordari, likely associated with the artisans who once worked in these quarries, and the Grotta del Salpetre, which possibly served some industrial or storage function.