A few kilometres from Syracuse one can visit the naturalist itinerary of the Ciane-Salinea reserve. Managed since 1984 by the Regional Province, the reserve was created to revitalize and protect the papyrus, a water plant of Egyptian origin that may have been introduced here as long ago as the third century BC. Along the banks of the river grows the largest colony of the plant in all Europe. This river environment is an ideal habitat for the survival of many species of resident and migratory birds, including stilt-plovers, waterhens, and various large waders. The source of the River Ciane is highly evocative, a scenario of myths and legends, with its circular pool of green-blue water (the name Ciane comes from the Greek Cyanos). The source, surrounded by the green of papyrus plants similar to those in the Nile, can be reached in a rowing-boat - an experience that has enchanted countless travellers from the 17th century until the present day. On foot it takes at most two hours. Amid the thick papyrus groves - up to four metres tall - the itinerary follows the upper part of the River Ciane, from the source to about halfway up its full course. After leaving one's car in the shade of the lofty eucalyptus trees, near the little bridge, one proceeds on foot along the two banks, which are connected at various points by rustic bridges. When one reaches the mouth of the river, one can admire what remains of the now abandoned salt flats.