Home > Europe > Italy > Heritage Sites > Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of
Syracuse, Italy - Ear of Dionysius
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Syracuse, Italy - Ear of Dionysius
Syracuse, Italy (Siracusa) - This card shows an artificial cave, 65 m long and 23 m high, which was given the name of The Ear of Dionysius by Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, when in 1586, accompanied by the Syracusan archaeologist Vincenzo Mirabella, he visited the Latomie del Paradiso and the cave, noting the human ear-shaped entrance to the latter. The legend was thus created that Dionysus had the cave excavated to use it as a prison and exploited its still amazing acoustics to eavesdrop on his prisoners. Date: circa 1905
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7224235
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10423969
Acoustics Caravaggio Cave Dionysius Elder Galleries Gallery Merisi Michelangelo Passage Prison Siracusa Steep Syracuse Under Ground Walls
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> C
> Caravaggio
> Arts
> Artists
> Caravaggio
> Arts
> Artists
> Michelangelo
> Europe
> Italy
> Heritage Sites
> Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of
> Europe
> Italy
> Sicily
> Syracuse
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the extraordinary Ear of Dionysius, an artificial cave located in Syracuse, Italy, also known as Siracusa. Carved into the side of a valley, this impressive geological formation measures 65 meters long and 23 meters high. The unique shape of the entrance, reminiscent of an ear, has earned it this intriguing name. The legend surrounding the Ear of Dionysius dates back to 1586 when the renowned Italian artist Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, visited the Latomie del Paradiso and the cave with the Syracusan archaeologist Vincenzo Mirabella. Caravaggio was struck by the cave's human ear-shaped entrance and the fascinating acoustics that allowed whispers at one end to be heard clearly at the other. As a result, the tale emerged that the ancient Greek god of wine, Dionysus, had the cave excavated to use it as a prison and exploited its remarkable acoustics to eavesdrop on his prisoners. The Ear of Dionysius is a testament to the rich history and natural wonders of Syracuse, a city steeped in ancient culture and beauty. The steep walls and galleries of this natural wonder have captivated visitors for centuries, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring the Italian countryside. This photograph, taken circa 1905, offers a glimpse into the past, inviting us to imagine the stories and secrets that lie hidden within the depths of this remarkable cave.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
