Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)
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Latest update: 19 January 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological site, located just below the city of Agrigento. The ancient city of Agrigento was founded in the 6th century BC and went on to become one of the most important locations in the wider Magna Graecia region.
Since 1997 it's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marked out for the Doric temples that dominate the local landscape. |
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The Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) is an extraordinary archaeological site located near Agrigento, on the southern coast of Sicily.
It is one of the most important and well-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Valley of the Temples is not an actual valley but rather a ridge with several magnificent ancient Greek temples and other ruins.
The Valley of the Temples boasts an impressive collection of well-preserved ancient Greek temples and other structures, set against the backdrop of the Sicilian countryside. The site is characterized by its Doric-style architecture and its historical and cultural significance.
It is one of the most important and well-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Valley of the Temples is not an actual valley but rather a ridge with several magnificent ancient Greek temples and other ruins.
The Valley of the Temples boasts an impressive collection of well-preserved ancient Greek temples and other structures, set against the backdrop of the Sicilian countryside. The site is characterized by its Doric-style architecture and its historical and cultural significance.
History
The Valley of the Temples was founded by ancient Greek settlers from Gela around the 6th century BC. Agrigento, then known as Akragas, flourished as a prosperous Greek colony, becoming one of the most important and prosperous cities in Magna Graecia (Greater Greece). The temples were built to honor various gods and celebrate the city's wealth and power.
Over time, the city of Akragas faced several wars and invasions, leading to its decline. The Roman Empire eventually conquered the city, and it later passed through the hands of Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and others. The temples were mostly preserved due to their transformation into Christian churches during the medieval period.
Over time, the city of Akragas faced several wars and invasions, leading to its decline. The Roman Empire eventually conquered the city, and it later passed through the hands of Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and others. The temples were mostly preserved due to their transformation into Christian churches during the medieval period.
Key features
- Temple of Concordia: This remarkably well-preserved temple is one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. It was built around 440 BC and dedicated to the Greek god of harmony, Concordia.
- Temple of Juno (or Hera): Another magnificent Doric temple, dedicated to the goddess Juno (Hera), built in the mid-5th century BC.
- Temple of Heracles (or Hercules): This temple was dedicated to the legendary hero Heracles (Hercules) and is believed to be the oldest temple in the valley, dating back to the 6th century BC.
- Temple of Olympian Zeus: This colossal temple, which was never completed, was intended to be one of the largest in the ancient Greek world.
Visitor information
- Archaeological Park: The site is a vast archaeological park that can be explored on foot. A designated path leads visitors through the temples and other ruins, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for a more in-depth understanding of the historical and architectural significance of the temples.
- Visitor Center: The park has a visitor center providing information about the site's history and exhibits of artifacts discovered during excavations.
- Evening Visits: In the summer months, the temples are beautifully illuminated at night, allowing for magical evening visits.
- Accessibility: The site is mostly accessible, but some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.
Parco Archeologico della Valle dei Templi
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Comune: Agrigento
Province: Agrigento Region: Sicily Fly to: Catania Airport - 1 hour 53 minutes (157 km) Close by: Porto Empedocle, Scala dei Turchi, Eraclea Minoa Recommended accommodation: Doric Boutique Hotel (2.4 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Archaeological Area of Agrigento
Year: 1997
Archaeological Area of Agrigento
Year: 1997
