The Museum of the Sea in Syracuse: A journey through Sicily’s fascinating seafaring history and tradition

A One-of-a-Kind Museum:

Located in the heart of Ortigia, inside the historic church of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli, the Syracuse Sea Museum (SirMuMa) represents a unique institution of its kind. Born out of the passion and dedication of Augusto Aliffi and other enthusiasts of Syracuse’s maritime tradition, the museum tells the thousand-year story of the deep connection between the city and the sea.

A Precious Heritage to Discover:

Crossing the threshold of the museum, visitors are plunged into a fascinating world of boats, models, tools, relics and testimonies that trace centuries of seafaring activity in Syracuse. Among the most interesting exhibits are:

• Work Tools: A vast collection of tools used by ship carpenters, fishermen, and caulkers, evidence of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that characterized the seafaring world in Syracuse.
• Model boats: Made largely by Augusto Aliffi, the models faithfully reproduce the different types of boats that plied the Mediterranean Sea throughout the centuries, from ancient merchant ships to modern fishing boats.
• The Tonnara of Marzamemi: A 1:100 scale reproduction of this complex traditional fishing facility provides an understanding of the operation and importance of the tonnara in the Sicilian economy and culture.

Among nets and ancient tools, a dive into Syracuse’s naval history

The first section of the museum welcomes with a riot of nets draped from the ceiling, creels and baskets of all sizes, testifying to the intense seafaring activity that once pulsated in the city.

Learn the secrets of traditional shipbuilding

In the center of the room, a boat under construction reveals the traditional methods used by Syracuse’s master carpenters. You can observe going into specifics, all the tools of the trade, passed down from generation to generation, and imagine the painstaking work and wisdom required to bring these impressive vessels to life.

A treasure trove of unique tools

Continuing your exploration, you will come across a unique collection: as many as 250 wooden work tools, some dating as far back as the late 19th century. These precious relics, from the old Syracuse Shipyard, will reveal to you the secrets of woodworking and shipbuilding of yesteryear.

Saws, planes, pliers and drills: each tool tells a story

Behold the walls covered with saws, planes, pliers, drills and chisels, each with its precise function. Imagine the skilled hands of craftsmen who used them to shape wood and create sturdy vessels destined to ply the seas.

The Calafatari: Masters of Art in the Service of the Sea:

An entire section of the museum is dedicated to caulkers, the skilled craftsmen who were responsible for waterproofing boats. Through explanatory panels, photos, and original tools, the museum illustrates the intricate work of caulking, an art passed down from generation to generation and now almost disappeared.

A Prosperous Future for the Museum:

Due to its historical and cultural value, the Maritime Museum has received recognition as a regional museum. The goal is to relocate it to new, larger and more appropriate spaces to allow for better enjoyment and further enhance this unique heritage.

Useful information: In addition to the opening hours listed on the museum’s website, visits to the museum can be booked by calling the contacts or sending an e-mail. Contact information can be found on the website.

An Invitation to Discover:

The Syracuse Sea Museum is an invitation to discover Sicily’s rich maritime history and tradition. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the fascination of the sea, learn about the trades of the past and appreciate the ingenuity and skill of the men who have lived and worked in close contact with the sea.