Ear of Dionysius - an artificial limestone cave carved into the rocks in the parietal Syracuse. The name of this tourist attraction comes from its similarity to the shape of the human ear.

Perhaps the Ear of Dionysius was formed on the site of an old quarry, which characterize the city. The cave is 23 meters in height, and its length deep into the rock is 65 meters. If you look at it from above, it can be seen that the cave has a bend in the form of the letter S. And the entrance to the cave has the shape of a drop. It is because of this form of the cave is incredibly good acoustics - even the quiet whisper can be heard throughout the room.

The name of the cave was in 1586, and came up with it was none other than the great Italian painter Caravaggio. The name refers to the tyrant of Syracuse Dionysius I. According to legend (possibly also invented Caravaggio), Dionysius used this cave as a prison for political opponents and, thanks to the wonderful acoustics, overheard their plans and to ferret out secrets. Another, more terrible, legend has it that Dionysius ordered to clear the cave in the form of an ear, so she screams intensified prisoners who were subjected to severe torture here. Unfortunately, we can not bestow that excellent acoustics, since access to the central point is closed.

Incidentally, the Ear of Dionysius is also called the auditory tube type with a flexible hose, as well as the term is used to refer to surveillance, especially for political purposes.

But in general there are very good reasons to believe that the cave is still a natural origin. Because it is located in a low hillside, consisting of hardwood, it could emerge as a result of action of rain in prehistoric times. Related Education shaped canyon in the set can be seen in the US state of Utah. The narrowness of the upper part of the cave and expansion at the bottom along with the serpentine-shaped are also characteristic of slot canyons. And just polished walls are further proof of the long-term effects of water. This natural attraction, combined with the incredible acoustics, most likely led to the fact that ancient people worshiped this place is sacred, and therefore it is well preserved.