Sicily's turbulent history of invasion and colonisation is reaffirmed by its rich legacy of Greek temples, Norman churches and castles, Arab and Byzantine domes and elaborate baroque architecture. Syracuse, founded as a Greek colony over 2,500 years ago, vividly reflects that heritage. Once the ancient world's largest city it is famed for its superb Greek theatre, carved from solid rock, and ornate medieval and baroque centre on picturesque Ortygia island.