Sybaris
Latest page update: 1 March 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
Sybaris or the National Archaeological Museum of Sibaritide to give it its full name, is located in the Province of Cosenza.
By car from the city of Cosenza it takes 53 minutes while the regional capital of Calabria, Catanzaro is an hour and 46 minutes. The museum opens from 9 am to 7:30 pm every day apart from Mondays and tickets cost €5 for adults. The city of Sybaris, founded in 720 BC, was once an important part of the ancient Magna Graecia region which comprised Basilicata, Sicily, Puglia and Campania as well as Calabria itself. |
Related links
Sybaris • Calabria • Archaeological Site
Sybaris is an ancient archaeological site located in the Calabria region, near the town of Cassano allo Ionio, along the Ionian coast of southern Italy. Once a thriving Greek colony, Sybaris is famous for its wealth and cultural significance during the 6th century BC. The city was known for its advanced urban planning, impressive architecture, and luxurious lifestyle. The ruins of Sybaris provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of one of the most prosperous Greek cities in Italy, with remnants of temples, city walls, and public buildings still visible today.
Visitors to Sybaris can explore the vast archaeological area, including the remains of the city’s ancient streets, residential areas, and sacred buildings. Key highlights include the remains of the Temple of Apollo and a series of well-preserved city walls. The site also features the famous "Basilica," an ancient public building that offers insight into the city’s political and social life. Sybaris is also known for its advanced water management system, with remnants of ancient aqueducts and drainage systems still evident in the area.
The nearby town of Cassano allo Ionio offers services such as restaurants, accommodations, and shops. Sybaris is also close to the natural beauty of the Sila Mountains, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscape. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the archaeological site with discovering the cultural and natural landmarks of the region.
Visitors to Sybaris can explore the vast archaeological area, including the remains of the city’s ancient streets, residential areas, and sacred buildings. Key highlights include the remains of the Temple of Apollo and a series of well-preserved city walls. The site also features the famous "Basilica," an ancient public building that offers insight into the city’s political and social life. Sybaris is also known for its advanced water management system, with remnants of ancient aqueducts and drainage systems still evident in the area.
The nearby town of Cassano allo Ionio offers services such as restaurants, accommodations, and shops. Sybaris is also close to the natural beauty of the Sila Mountains, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscape. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the archaeological site with discovering the cultural and natural landmarks of the region.
Key features and nearby attractions
- Archaeological Park: The Sybaris archaeological site is now an open-air museum, showcasing the remains of the ancient city. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient temples, residential areas, public buildings, and artifacts dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC.
- Museum of Sibaritide: The nearby Museum of Sibaritide houses a collection of artifacts discovered during excavations at Sybaris and other neighboring sites. It provides context and insight into the history and culture of Magna Graecia.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available at the site, providing historical context and stories about the ancient city, making the visit more informative and engaging.
- Natural Beauty: The archaeological site is located in a picturesque setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic landscapes, adding to the overall charm of the visit.
- Nearby Attractions: Sybaris is conveniently located near other tourist destinations in Calabria, such as the beautiful coastal towns along the Ionian Sea, the Sila National Park, and the Pollino National Park.
Opening-times:
Tue - Sun: 09:00 - 19:30 (closed Mondays) |
Prices:
Adults: €5 |
Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Sibaritide
Province: Cosenza
Region: Calabria Close by: Villapiana Lido, Corigliano Calabro, Rossano, Civita By car: Cosenza - 53 mins, Catanzaro - 1 hour 46 minutes Fly to: Lamezia Terme Airport (137 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Poseidon (16 km) |