The Ear of Dionysius is a limestone cave in the Latomia del Paradiso, within Neapolis Archaeological Park in Siracusa. It is part of the wider archaeological area, making it easy to combine with the Greek Theatre and other remains in the park; from Aretusa Palace rooms, the walk takes about 19 minutes.
- Location: Neapolis Archaeological Park, Viale Paradiso 14, Siracusa.
- What it is: A cave cut into the ancient quarries of Paradiso.
- Ticket: The park visit uses an archaeological-area ticket, not a separate Ear of Dionysius ticket.
- Nearby site: The Greek Theatre is within the same archaeological area.
What is the Ear of Dionysius?
The Ear of Dionysius, also called Orecchio di Dionisio, is a limestone cave in the ancient Latomia del Paradiso quarry. The name refers to its distinctive shape, while the site itself is part of a much larger landscape of rock-cut quarries and monuments.
Neapolis includes the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, Altar of Hieron II, Via dei Sepolcri, Grotticelli necropolis and ancient stone quarries. The Ear is one of the features within that wider setting, rather than a standalone attraction.
Where is the Ear of Dionysius in Neapolis?
The cave lies within the Neapolis Archaeological Park, at Viale Paradiso 14 in Siracusa. It belongs to the Latomie del Paradiso, the ancient stone-quarry area. The Grotta dei Cordari is another cave within the ancient Latomie of Paradiso and Santa Venera.
Plan to see the Ear as part of a park visit rather than as a separate stop. The archaeological area also contains the Roman Amphitheatre, Altar of Hieron II, Grotticelli necropolis and the Norman-Swabian church of San Nicolò. Viale Rizzo climbs the Temenite hill and offers views over the Greek Theatre, the quarries and the necropolis.
What do Ear of Dionysius tickets include?
The park operator offers an “Area archeologica della Neapolis” ticket, not a separate Ear of Dionysius ticket. Official sources give full admission prices of €10–€14 and reduced prices of €5–€7. Check the official site before you go.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 8:30–18:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Opening times vary by season, and ticket-office closing times can differ from park closing times. Check the operator’s current schedule when planning your visit.
What should you notice during the visit?
Look at how the cave sits within the cut-rock landscape of the Latomia del Paradiso. The Ear is part of a quarry area, not an isolated cave, and the surrounding archaeological park brings together natural rock faces and ancient structures.
Access to parts of the site is managed for safety: visitors are allowed into the Greek Theatre and part of the Latomia del Paradiso, including the Ear of Dionysius. Follow the access arrangements in place during your visit.
How can you combine the Ear of Dionysius with the Greek Theatre?
Visit the Ear and the Greek Theatre in the same park outing. The theatre’s present form dates to the 3rd century BC, though it existed from the second half of the 5th century BC. It was carved into the rock, and its cavea has 67 rows divided into nine sections by eight stairways.
For more context on the theatre’s history and practical visit details, use this guide to Greek Theatre tickets and visits.
How do you walk to Neapolis?
The park entrance is at Viale Paradiso 14, Siracusa. Allow time to explore the archaeological area beyond the cave, since the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre and quarry landscape are all part of the wider Neapolis setting.
FAQs
Is the Ear of Dionysius inside Neapolis Archaeological Park?
Yes. It is within the Latomia del Paradiso, part of Neapolis Archaeological Park in Siracusa.
Can you buy a separate ticket for the Ear of Dionysius?
No separate Ear of Dionysius ticket is offered; admission is through the Neapolis archaeological-area ticket.
What else is included in the Neapolis archaeological area?
The area includes the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, Altar of Hieron II, Via dei Sepolcri, Grotticelli necropolis and ancient quarries. For another nearby collection, the Museo archeologico regionale Paolo Orsi visitor guide covers the museum.
Is the Greek Theatre part of the same visit?
Yes. The Greek Theatre is within the Neapolis archaeological area, so you can combine it with the Ear of Dionysius.