Siracusa, situated in south-eastern Sicily, has its historical center on the island of Ortigia, which is connected to the mainland by several bridges.
Proud of its Greek history, the city also displays traces of its Roman, Norman and Aragonese rulers. Following a devastating earthquake in 1693, Siracusa was rebuilt in the unique and expressive Sicilian Baroque style; in addition to Archimedes tomb, there are several other well-preserved excavations, including a large Greek theater that is still used for performances in the summer months. Near the theater are the Latomie or deep quarries in the limestone bedrock for ancient Siracusa's extensive building activities. The most famous of these is the famous Ear of Dionysius.