Ognina, Siracusa — Area Guide & Where to Stay

What are the main landmarks in Ognina?

Torre Ognina is the main landmark of Ognina, a watchtower standing on Capo Ognina at the southern point of the locality. The Isola di Ognina sits off the eastern edge. It was once joined to the mainland.

The Porticciolo di Ognina shelters inside Baia di Ognina, a canal harbour long used by seafarers for fresh water and cover. Fish names run through the streets, and Traversa Capo Ognina holds the spine that Via della Cernia, Via del Sarago, and Via dell'Aragosta branch off.

What is the history of Ognina?

Ognina was lived on long before Siracusa's Greek city, and finds from its shore tie the place to the Stentinello culture. The Romans burned lime here. Circular basins and kilns cut for that work survive along the rock south of the point, on the ground running toward Fontane Bianche.

Ancient geography called the headland Longum Promontorium, the long promontory. Torre Ognina came later, a watchtower of the Spanish period. On 10 July 1943 British Commandos landed between Capo Ognina and Fontane Bianche, and the Allied plans for the sector named that stretch of shore George Beach.

Where is Ognina?

Ognina lies on Siracusa's southern coast, held between Arenella to the north, Fontane Bianche to the south, and contrada Cuba inland.