Archaeological Area of Agrigento

Archaeological Area of Agrigento: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Overview

The Archaeological Area of Agrigento, also known as the Valley of the Temples, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the province of Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. This ancient Greek temple complex is one of the most outstanding examples of Greater Greece architectural art and one of the most important attractions in Sicily.

History

The Valley of the Temples was built during the fifth century BCE by the Greeks, specifically the Chalcidians from Rhodes. The city was founded in 581 BCE as Akragas and became one of the most powerful cities in Magna Graecia, an area of southern Italy inhabited by Greek colonists.

Layout of the Site

The valley is home to seven Doric Temples, including the Temple of Concordia, which is one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. The other six are the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Heracles, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Hera Lacinia, the Temple of Demeter, and the Temple of Asclepios.

Highlights

  1. Temple of Concordia: This is the best-preserved Greek temple in Sicily. It was built between 430 and 406 BCE and originally dedicated to the goddesses Hera and Victoria. Today, it stands as a symbol of harmony and unity.

  2. Temple of Juno: Dedicated to the Roman goddess Juno, the temple is smaller than Concordia but has an unusual hexastyle design (six columns at the front).

  3. Temple of Heracles: Although much of it has been destroyed, this temple was dedicated to the Greek hero Hercules and is worth visiting for its historical significance.

  4. Temple of Olympian Zeus: This temple is in a semi-ruined state but still offers a glimpse into ancient Greek architecture. It was originally dedicated to Zeus, king of the gods.

  5. Temple of Hera Lacinia: This temple is less visited but offers a tranquil and atmospheric experience. It was dedicated to Hera, the queen of the gods.

  6. Temple of Demeter: Dedicated to the goddess of agriculture and fertility, this temple is in a very ruined state but still retains some of its original columns.

  7. Temple of Asclepios: This temple was dedicated to the Greek god of healing, Asclepius. It is the smallest of the temples in the valley.

Practical Information

  • Location: The Archaeological Area of Agrigento is located about 3 km northwest of the city center of Agrigento.
  • Opening Hours: The site is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM (from April to October) and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (from November to March). It is closed on Mondays.
  • Admission Fee: The admission fee is €12.00 for adults, €6.00 for EU citizens aged between 18 and 25 years old, and free for children under 18 and EU citizens over 65.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in multiple languages. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak season.
  • Accessibility: The site is mostly accessible for people with reduced mobility. However, some areas may be difficult to reach due to the uneven terrain.

Nearby Attractions

  1. Agrigento Cathedral: Located in the city center, this cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious architecture.

  2. Sicily’s Southern Coast: The coastline south of Agrigento is dotted with beautiful beaches, charming towns, and ancient ruins, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.

  3. Scala dei Turchi: This white limestone cliff near Realmonte offers stunning views and a unique hiking experience.