Mulini di Galerme (Mills of Galerme), Syracuse

The Mills of Galerme were a complex of water mills situated above the auditorium of the Greek Theater of Syracuse, dating back to the late medieval period. These mills derived their name from the nearby Galermi aqueduct. While the original complex has mostly disappeared, what remains visible today is the so-called millers' house. This house serves as a tangible link to the historical significance of the Mills of Galerme, which were constructed during the era of Sicilian feudalism. These mills were strategically positioned in proximity to the Temenite hill, an area rich in archaeological and historical importance.

One of the distinctive architectural elements of the complex was the high Ponte Canale dei Mulini, or Bridge of the Mill Canals, which was sadly demolished in the nineteenth century. This bridge likely played a crucial role in managing the flow of water to the mills and facilitating their operation.

Beneath the well-preserved millers' house, an intriguing discovery was made in the form of a small cave with an oven-like structure. This funerary cave is believed to date back to the Sicilian period, providing valuable evidence that the Temenite hill was already a site of human activity and significance prior to Greek influence. This historical revelation deepens our understanding of the rich and layered history of Syracuse, reflecting its enduring importance in various periods of antiquity.