Tavole Palatine
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 15 January 2024
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The Tavole Palatine are located in the Province of Matera, just under 50 kilometres from the city of Matera.
The site opens every day from 09:00 until one hour before sunset with entrance free of charge. Places of interest close to the park include Metaponto Archaeological Park, Bernalda, Lido di Scanzano and Craco. |
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Related links
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Opening-times:
Daily: from 09:00 - 1 hour before sunset |
Prices:
Entrance: Free |
Profile
The Tavole Palatine, also known as the Palatine Tables, is an archaeological site located near Metaponto in the region of Basilicata, Italy. It is an ancient sacred area that includes the ruins of two large Ionic temples, and it holds great historical and cultural significance as a remnant of the ancient Greek colony of Metapontum.
It's an impressive archaeological site, characterized by the remains of two ancient temples dating back to the 6th century BCE. The temples were built in the Ionic architectural style, with columns and other features typical of ancient Greek temples. Although the temples are not fully preserved, the standing columns and remnants of the foundations provide a glimpse of their original grandeur.
The site is situated in a picturesque rural landscape, surrounded by fields and olive groves. The temple ruins are set on a high terrace, creating a commanding presence over the surrounding area. The archaeological site also includes the remains of other structures, such as altars and votive offerings, which suggest that the Tavole Palatine held religious and ceremonial significance for the ancient inhabitants of Metapontum.
It's an impressive archaeological site, characterized by the remains of two ancient temples dating back to the 6th century BCE. The temples were built in the Ionic architectural style, with columns and other features typical of ancient Greek temples. Although the temples are not fully preserved, the standing columns and remnants of the foundations provide a glimpse of their original grandeur.
The site is situated in a picturesque rural landscape, surrounded by fields and olive groves. The temple ruins are set on a high terrace, creating a commanding presence over the surrounding area. The archaeological site also includes the remains of other structures, such as altars and votive offerings, which suggest that the Tavole Palatine held religious and ceremonial significance for the ancient inhabitants of Metapontum.
History
Metapontum, the ancient city where the Tavole Palatine is located, was founded by Greek colonists from Achaea in the 7th century BCE.
The colony flourished and became an important cultural and economic center in Magna Graecia, the Greek colonies in Southern Italy. The Tavole Palatine is believed to have been an essential religious complex within the city, dedicated to the worship of Greek deities, particularly Hera.
The decline of Metapontum began in the 5th century BCE when it was captured and ravaged by the Lucanians, an indigenous Italic people. The city eventually lost its importance and was abandoned in the later centuries.
The colony flourished and became an important cultural and economic center in Magna Graecia, the Greek colonies in Southern Italy. The Tavole Palatine is believed to have been an essential religious complex within the city, dedicated to the worship of Greek deities, particularly Hera.
The decline of Metapontum began in the 5th century BCE when it was captured and ravaged by the Lucanians, an indigenous Italic people. The city eventually lost its importance and was abandoned in the later centuries.
Key features and nearby attractions
- Opening Hours: The site is open to visitors during specific hours. It is advisable to check the official opening hours before planning your visit.
- Entrance Fee: There is typically a nominal fee to enter the archaeological site.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the Tavole Palatine. Local guides can provide valuable insights into the ancient Greek civilization and its impact on the region.
- Accessibility: The site may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain and ancient ruins. However, some areas are accessible, and there are information boards to provide context.
- Nearby Attractions: Metaponto is a region with several other archaeological sites and historical attractions worth exploring, including the ruins of the ancient city and the Metaponto Archaeological Museum.
- Weather: It is recommended to visit the site during the cooler hours of the day, especially in the summer, as the temperatures in Basilicata can be quite high.
Tavole Palatine
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Province: Matera
Region: Basilicata Historical period: 6th century BC By car: Matera - 39 minutes, Potenza - 1 hour 19 minutes Close by: Metaponto Archaeological Park, Bernalda, Craco Recommended accommodation: Borgo Valle Rita (11 km) |
