Soluntum
By Dion Protani
|
Latest update: 19 January 2024
|
The archaeological site of Solus (or Soluntim) is situated within the Metropolitan City of Palermo province and part of the Comune of Santa Flavia.
The ancient city from the Magna Graecia era can sometimes be difficult to locate on maps but if using Google Maps in particular, it's located under the heading of Area Archeologica di Solunto. |
Related links
Profile
The Soluntum archaeological site, also known as Solunto, is an ancient Phoenician and Roman city located on the northern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is situated on the slopes of Mount Catalfano, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Palermo. Soluntum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and cultural heritage of the Phoenicians and Romans in Sicily.
Description: Soluntum was originally founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC as a strategic settlement for trade and maritime activities. It later became a Roman city during the 3rd century BC. The archaeological site covers a large area, and excavations have revealed the remains of both Phoenician and Roman structures.
Description: Soluntum was originally founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC as a strategic settlement for trade and maritime activities. It later became a Roman city during the 3rd century BC. The archaeological site covers a large area, and excavations have revealed the remains of both Phoenician and Roman structures.
History
Soluntum was strategically located on the northern coast of Sicily, making it an important port and trading center for the Phoenicians. It played a crucial role in maritime trade and cultural exchange between the eastern and western Mediterranean.
During the First Punic War, Soluntum was conquered by the Roman Republic and became a Roman municipium. It continued to flourish during the Roman period and served as a prominent agricultural and economic center in Sicily.
Over time, the city faced challenges from invasions and natural disasters, leading to its decline during the Byzantine period.
During the First Punic War, Soluntum was conquered by the Roman Republic and became a Roman municipium. It continued to flourish during the Roman period and served as a prominent agricultural and economic center in Sicily.
Over time, the city faced challenges from invasions and natural disasters, leading to its decline during the Byzantine period.
Key features
- Phoenician Quarter: This area contains the remains of the original Phoenician settlement, including houses, streets, and defensive walls.
- Roman Houses: The site also features well-preserved Roman houses with mosaic floors and architectural elements.
- Necropolis: Archaeological excavations have revealed a necropolis, an ancient burial ground, with tombs and funerary objects from both Phoenician and Roman periods.
- Roman Baths: The site includes the remains of Roman baths, reflecting the influence of Roman culture on the city.
Visitor information
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available to provide historical context and insights into the history and archaeology of Soluntum.
- Visitor Center: The site may have a visitor center with exhibits and informative materials about the history and culture of Soluntum and the various civilizations that inhabited the area.
- Accessibility: The site may have some uneven terrain, as it is located on a hillside overlooking the sea.
- Nearby Attractions: Soluntum is located close to other famous destinations in Sicily, such as the city of Palermo and the ancient ruins of Segesta.
Parco Archeologico di Solunto
Comune: Santa Flavia
Province: Metropolitan City of Palermo Region: Sicily Fly to: Palermo Airport - 51 minutes (55 km) Close by: Altavilla Milicia, Bagheria, Termini Imerese, Palermo Recommended accommodation: Hotel Sporting Club (11 km) |