Necropolis of Pantalica
The Necropolis of Pantalica is a true treasure of Sicily. West of Syracuse, the Anapo and Calcinara rivers merge in the picturesque limestone gorge of Monte Iblei. The gorge can be descended along former railroad tracks.
General information
Walking along the Calcinara River from Sortino, you will pass a marvelous transparent gulf, not far before the river flows into the Anapo in the wildest and most beautiful part of the gorge, where eagles soar high overhead. The gorge gradually widens into fertile fields and orchards where citrus fruits, almonds and even persimmons are grown.
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A stunning but more challenging way to explore the surroundings of Pantalica is to take the rough road from Ferla. It seems like the road is about to plunge into an abyss, but suddenly there is a sharp turn and the dirt road descends to Anaktoron, the ruins of the ancient palace of the ruler. Here is the main attraction of Pantalika – 5000 tombs carved in limestone, part of a colossal necropolis, formed from XIII to VIII century BC. During the Byzantine era, the church of St. Michidario was built here.
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