Route of the Gods: by sea from Agrigento to Syracuse

We all know Sicily’s magnetic ability to combine art, history, and beauty. This is exactly what happens along the Route of the Gods, a sea itinerary of about 150 nautical miles that touches landscapes and artistic sites so beautiful that they are deemed divine. Hence the name “Route of the Gods,” in reference not only to the breathtaking scenery but also to the strong Hellenistic heritage of these lands, beginning right from the Valley of the Temples.

This itinerary includes three main stops: Agrigento – Pozzallo, Noto, and Syracuse.

Stage 1 – The Route of the Gods: Agrigento to Pozzallo

The Route of the Gods begins in Agrigento, the Hellenistic city par excellence. Overlooking the Ionian Sea, Agrigento fascinates visitors not only with its Valley of the Temples but also with many other extraordinary artistic and natural treasures.

Although Agrigento is more than just its temples, it’s impossible not to start here. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the Valley of the Temples stretches along the Sacred Way (Via Sacra), where six majestic Doric-style temples stand in honor of the ancient gods of Magna Graecia—hence the name Route of the Gods. The temples are dedicated to Concordia, Juno, Hercules, Zeus Olympios, Castor and Pollux, and Vulcan, and they still retain an aura of sacredness and awe in front of such human grandeur.

Opening hours: Weekdays 8:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (exit by 8:00 p.m.); holidays and eves 8:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (exit by 8:00 p.m.).

Equally charming is the historic heart of Agrigento. The old town, built on Girgenti Hill and dominated by its imposing Cathedral, is a maze of narrow alleys leading to beautiful Baroque churches and noble palaces. Wandering through the historic center reveals hidden corners full of charm, such as Vicolo Santa Anna or Piazzetta Pirandello, dedicated to the Nobel Prize-winning writer Luigi Pirandello.

A highlight of the old town is Via Atenea, which connects Piazza Pirandello to the Cathedral of San Gerlando. This lively street is lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife venues popular among locals. Walking here means immersing yourself in Agrigento’s vibrant atmosphere while admiring elegant Baroque churches like San Giuseppe.

From Porto Empedocle, the route heads toward Pozzallo, with an intermediate stop in Gela. Here, it’s worth stocking up on local specialties such as Cerasuolo di Vittoria wine, Ragusano cheese, and Modica chocolate.

Already, this first leg of the Route of the Gods reveals the divine beauty of a journey that—let’s remember—takes place by sea!

Stage 2 – The Noto Valley

After sighting Pozzallo and stopping at the Port of Pietre Nere, the second stage of the journey leads to Noto.

Noto is a true Baroque jewel, set in a charming valley that seems suspended between time and dream. Its warm stone hues, sunlit facades, narrow decorative lanes, ancient balconies adorned in Sicilian style, and the enticing flavors of island cuisine create an atmosphere of timeless grace. Shops offer handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and leather goods—making Noto a precious gem along the Route of the Gods.

Among its landmarks, the Cathedral of San Nicolò and the Porta Reale stand out.

The Cathedral of San Nicolò, the city’s most important religious building, was begun in 1693 and completed in 1703, the year it was opened for worship after its “solemn blessing.” Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous restorations, reaching its current form only at the end of the 19th century, when architect Cassone built the new dome.

The facade, in late Baroque style with a strong Neoclassical touch, is made of soft limestone. Its twin towers reflect French 18th-century influences. Crowned by statues of the Four Evangelists by sculptor Giuseppe Orlando (1796), the facade features three grand portals framed by Corinthian columns. The cathedral stands atop a magnificent three-flight staircase, originally 18th-century and fully restored in the early 1800s.

The Porta Reale, meanwhile, though less monumental, symbolizes the entrance into Noto’s Baroque spirit and history. Built in 1838 at the request of the Marquis of Cannicarao, it was originally called Porta Ferdinandea. In Neoclassical style, it features a large central arch flanked by the coats of arms of Noto and the Cannicarao family, and crowned with three sculptures: a tower (symbol of strength), a greyhound (symbol of loyalty), and a bird, interpreted either as a pelican (self-sacrifice) or a stork (fertility).

Noto truly elevates the Route of the Gods to an even more sublime level.

Stage 3 – Syracuse

After rounding Cape Plemmirio, the Route of the Gods reaches its final destination: Syracuse.

A city of timeless charm, Syracuse preserves its ancient past and generously shares it with visitors. The grandeur of its Archaeological Park and still-active Greek Theatre, together with the enchanting island of Ortygia, make it an unforgettable stop.

The harbor itself is a stage, setting the tone before exploring the archaeological treasures within the city. Off its coast lie small islets—the most captivating being Ortygia, with its fishermen’s houses, merchant palaces, hidden squares, Greek ruins, and the mythical Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater spring just steps from the sea.

Landmarks such as the Maniace Castle, the Clock Palace, the Cathedral, and the Necropolis of Pantalica have earned Syracuse UNESCO World Heritage status.

Walking through its streets means retracing three thousand years of history, lulled by the song of the sirens drifting in from the sea.

Syracuse, then, is the perfect way to conclude the Route of the Gods — a voyage where art, myth, and nature intertwine in eternal harmony.