The nymph Arethusa (or Aretusa) and her myth are central to the ancient history and culture of Siracusa, Sicily. So much so, that her image, surrounded by dolphins, is featured on the ancient coins of the city–from 415-400 BCE! This coin, which I photographed through a magnifying glass, may be seen in the newly opened…
Tag: arethusa
The Myth Behind Ortigia’s Fonte Aretusa
This sea-side fountain on the island of Ortigia–La Fonte Aretusa–is shrouded in myth. Firstly, it’s important to know that it is fed by an underground, fresh water spring. Here’s why: Greek folklore is that Aretusa (Arethusa in English) was a nymph who had sworn her allegiance and chastity to the goddess of the hunt, Artemis….