Agrigento city in Sicily. Sicily, Agrigento: location of the island, history, beaches, hotels, attractions. Interior of the Cathedral of Agrigento

Agrigento. Sicily.

Had many names: Akragas- that’s what the Greeks called the city, Agrigentum - the Romans who came after, Kerkent the Arabs said, Girgenti- Normans. And only in 1929 the city officially began to be called.
was founded by the Greeks from the island of Rhodes in 581 BC. Akragant (Akragas)- this is what the Greeks called the city, and became one of the significant and prosperous cities of the ancient world. At the same time it was built Valley of the Temples, and the city began to be called "most beautiful city mortals".
But in 406 BC. The city was besieged by the Carthaginians under the command of Hannibal; after a stubborn struggle and siege, the Carthaginians almost completely destroyed Akragant. This horrified the Greeks and caused a political crisis. The city was subsequently restored.
During the 2nd Punic War, Akragant came under the rule of Rome and received the name Agrigentum (Agrigentum).
These were years of quiet history under the shadow of prosperous Rome. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Agrigento was ruled by the barbarians, then the Byzantines and then the Normans. The Aragonese were replaced by the Spaniards, and in 1860 it became part of a united Italy.
And only in 1929 the city officially began to be called.

Main attraction Agrigento – Valley of the Temples– an extensive archaeological park with Greek temples from the 6th and 5th centuries. BC, which are considered the best examples of the Doric style outside Greece and are protected by UNESCO.

Agrigento. Valley of the Temples.

Several temples have survived to this day. The best preserved temple is Temple of Concord (tempio della Concordia), it was built in the 5th century. Rectangular at the base - 39.44 m x 16.91 m, with columns around the perimeter (6 x 13). In the 7th century, the temple was rebuilt into the Christian Church of Saints Peter and Paul. This is what helped it survive so well to this day.

Temple of Concord. Agrigento. Sicily.

The tallest temple is Temple of Hera or Juno Lacinia (tempio dei Hera Lacinia)– Doric temple 450 BC With a diameter of 38.15 m x 16.90 m, with 34 columns, 25 columns have survived to this day.
According to legend, the famous painting of Juno, painted by the Greek painter Zeuxis, was kept in this temple. Moreover, for this picture, Zeuxis examined all the girls of ancient Agrigento in the nude and chose five of them in order to reproduce in the picture what he approved of each of them individually.

Temple of Hera Lacinia. Agrigento.

Temple of Hercules (tempio di Eracle) was built in 510 BC. He personified the strength and power of Hercules, who was so loved in Sicily. The temple was huge 73.99 m x 27.79 m with 38 columns. But only 8 majestic columns have survived to this day.

Temple of Hercules. Agrigento.

In another part of the park (the park is divided into two parts by a road) located Temple of Jupiter (tempio di Zeus (Giove) Olimpico), erected in 480-479. BC. by order of the tyrant Theron. It was the most magnificent and grandiose temple, surrounded by 38 semi-columns of six and a half meters in circumference and decorated with giant Telamons seven and a half meters high that supported the temple. Now only ruins remain of the temple. A copy of one of the lying Telamon can be seen in the Valley near the temple ruins. And the original is kept in the National Archaeological Museum.
You can still see the ruins Temple of the Dioscuri (tempio dei Dioscuri), Temple of Aesculapius (tempio di Escupalio), Temple of Ephesus or Vulcan (tempio di Efesto), as well as necropolises of early Christians.

Directions to the Valley of the Temples: from the Agrigento railway station there is a bus to the La valle dei templi stop.
Valley of the Temples website - www.lavalledeitempli.it

The historical center, which was formed in the 9th-15th centuries, is also interesting. and still retains its medieval buildings and special atmosphere.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Located on a hill Cathedral of San Gerlando (piazza Don Minzoni), founded by Bishop Gerlando in the 11th century. The cathedral looks a little strange. The bell tower, which was added in the 15th century, remained unfinished, and the construction of the cathedral itself was not completed either. Inside there is a wooden ceiling with beautiful paintings. The cathedral building has excellent acoustics.

Cathedral of San Gerlando.

Located opposite Bishop's Palace and Seminary, built in 1574 and the building "Lucchesian Library".
Church of Santa Maria dei Greci (via Atenea) was erected on the ruins of the Doric temple of Athena in the 5th century BC, the ruins of which can still be seen today.

Church of Santa Maria dei Greci.

It is worth paying attention to the famous ravine - via Bac Bac.


Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

On a cozy piazza Pirandello in the former monastery complex of the Dominicans, the city Municipality is located, next to the theater (18th century) Luigi Pirandello, as well as the City Museum.

A small medieval town is located in the south of the province of Sicily and is its administrative center. During the golden age Ancient Greece it was called Akragas and was one of the largest settlements. Now most of The city is quite modern, but many unique medieval attractions have been preserved on its streets.

We have compiled for you a list of the ten most interesting and visited places in Agrigento.

Valley of the Temples ( Valle dei Templi)

The Valley of the Temples is a park and museum area consisting of a necropolis, an ancient wall, a forum, an agora and Doric temples, which were previously located in the very center ancient city. The ancient ruins appeared in the 5th-6th century BC. They are created in the classical colonnaded style and are dedicated to the gods: Pollux and Castor Dioscuri, Aesculapius, Vulcan, Hercules, Juno and Zeus.

The main parking lot is located at the entrance Porta V . A walk through the valley will take about 2 hours. Don't forget sunglasses and a cap, they will save you not only from the sun, but also from sandstorms, which are not uncommon here.

Address: Valle dei Templi, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: La valle dei templi.

Working hours: 8.30-19.00.

Price: 10 euros, reduced– 5 euros.

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Temple of Olympian Zeus)

It was assumed that it would have dimensions of 56x112 meters and 20-meter monumental columns, making it the largest Doric structure of the ancient Greeks. However, due to the storming of the city by the inhabitants of Carthage, the temple was never completed, and a strong earthquake almost completely destroyed what had been done. Now in the middle of the ruins you can see an 8-meter sculpture of King Telamon raising his hands up.

Address: Temple of Olympian Zeus, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: La valle dei templi.

Working hours: 8.30-19.00.

Price: 10 euros, reduced price 5 euros.

Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Gerlando)

The cathedral, built in the 11th century on the highest point of the city at that time. The temple was seriously damaged by a landslide in 1244 and was reconstructed, and in the 17th century it was rebuilt in the Baroque tradition. The south side of the cathedral is decorated with double Norman windows, and in the western part there is an episcopal seminary. Leading from the majestic bell tower, steps lead directly to the main entrance to the church.

The interior features a three-nave basilica, restored after the 1966 earthquake. In addition, the medieval-style nave, the 15th-century wooden ceiling and the Gothic-style front part of the church with octagonal column bases and pointed arches have been preserved. The bell tower and facade are made in the Renaissance style.

The church and modest chapel contain the remains of Bishop Gerlando, archbishops who lived in the city in the 15th-17th centuries and noble people. Near the southern entrance there is an urn with the relics of St. Felix, who died in the 3rd century.

Address: Piazza Don Minzoni, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via Duomo.

Working hours: 10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Church of Our Lady (Chiesa Santa Maria dei Greci)

The Greek Church of Our Lady, built in the 13th century on the ruins of a Doric temple from the 5th century BC. It was built in the Greco-Byzantine style. The facade is decorated with a portal with a carved cornice, which has Gothic elements. The interior of the church consists of three naves under a wooden rafter ceiling. The walls are decorated with frescoes from the 14th century. In the right nave you can see a 16th century statue of Our Lady. Fragments of the Doric foundation temple are preserved in the gallery and left nave.

Address: Salita Santa Maria dei Greci, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via Santa Maria dei Greci.

Working hours: 10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Sanctuary of Saint Kalogher(C hiesa San Calogero)

The Sanctuary of Saint Calogher appeared between the 13th and 14th centuries. It is divided into three parts by two colonnades with six Corinthian columns. The center is crowned by a rectangular apse with three chapels, in the niche of one of which there is a statue of St. Caloger.

The altar was made in the 14th century, presumably by representatives of the Capuchin Order. It was made of wood with inserts of mother-of-pearl, orange bark and rosewood. The decoration is made by multi-colored gilded mosaics made by Michele Amico.

Address: Piazzetta S. Calogero, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via San Calogero.

Church of the Holy Spirit (Monastero di Santo Spirito)

Church of the Holy Spirit, built in 1260. The Gothic-style gate and rose window with a Baroque pediment have been preserved. The walls of the building are decorated with plaster bas-reliefs by Giacomo Serpotta with scenes from the childhood of Christ. In a recess on the left wall is a 15th-century marble statue of Our Lady.

Address: Cortile Santo Spirito, 9, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Cortile Santo Spirito.

Working hours: 9.00-13.00 (Saturday), 9.00-13.00, 15.00-18.00 (other days).

Diocesan Museum

The Diocesan Museum was built from 1958 to 1963 by the architect Franco Minissi. The most important relics of the nearby Cathedral and the adjacent seminary are collected here, as well as exhibits telling about the history of the local church, its traditions and rituals.

Address: Via Duomo, 96, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via Duomo.

Working hours: 10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Price: 4 euros.

Archaeological Museum ( Museo Archeologico)

The project for the archaeological museum in the 1960s was also prepared by Franco Minissi. The building is located in the heart of old Agrigento, on the site of Villa Ciantro Panitteri. The museum offers a wonderful view of the Valley of the Temples.

The exhibition tells about ancient Greek history and the history of Akragas during the period when it belonged to the Greeks. The tour includes visits not only to the museum itself, but also to neighboring attractions - the Temple of San Nicola with a Romanesque façade, the ruins of the ancient Greek square of Timoleon and the covered gallery.

The oldest exhibit dates back to the 15th century BC - the oldest trinacria found on. Also on display here are unique dishes from the 7th century BC, vases, clay figurines, sacrificial bowls and statues of Tklamon and young athletes from the Temple of Zeus.

Address: Contrada San Nicola, 12, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: San Nicola.

Working hours: 9.00-19.00, Sunday from 9.00 to 13.00.

Price: 8 euros, reduced– 4 euros.

Gem Museum ( Gems Museum)

The Gem Museum is a unique institution in Sicily. Here you can admire precious stones, learn to distinguish between natural and artificial jewelry, and also feel like a real gemologist using professional equipment.

Address: Via Papa Luciani, 37, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via Papa Luciani.

Working hours: 17.00-20.00 (Monday), 10.30-13.00, 17.00-20.00 (other days).

Botanical Garden ( Giardino Botanico di Agrigento)

Botanical garden with an area of ​​7 hectares. Here you can see about 20 thousand species rare plants, and also explore amazing underground caves.

Address: Via Demetra, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Architectural monuments of Agrigento from the zone archaeological excavations ("Valley of the Temples"") are included in the list. Many of the temples of Agrigento are unparalleled in their preservation. Numerous antique buildings are combined with Baroque architecture.

Ancient Akragas was founded as a colony of immigrants from the island of Rhodes from around 581 BC. Over time, thanks to active trade, the city of Akragas, becoming one of largest cities Ancient world with a population of at least 20 thousand people. Akragas was an independent city, but in 406 BC. it was besieged by the Carthaginians. The siege lasted 8 months and ended with the defeat of Akragas. The Carthaginians captured and destroyed the city. It was later restored, but could not regain its former shine. In 262 BC. Akragas was annexed to Rome as an ally, retaining its constitution.

Agrigento weather:

Attractions of Agrigento

Among the main attractions of Agrigento are: Valley of the Temples(listed) and Old city Agrigento.

Valley of the Temples - Agrigento, Sicily - Temple of Concord

Impressions from Agrigento

If we talk about personal impressions of Agrigento, the city itself looks very slum and poor - strange, sometimes scary, houses, very worn out, at least from the outside. Simple restaurants, poor people, in general, one of the most “worn” cities on our trip to Sicily.

On the other side. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is certainly impressive. To some extent, even more than the Acropolis in Athens - since you can get close to the monuments... In general, it’s very worth coming here, touching the history... But you shouldn’t expect much from the city itself. And a car, by the way, would be very helpful here - the Valley of the Temples is located a few kilometers from the city center, you can walk there, but it’s tiring (it’s also tedious to walk through the Valley of the Temples - we personally tramped over 15 km in Agrigento in a day! and this with car!)

Valley of the Temples in Agrigento (Valle dei Templi)

The territory of ancient Akragas occupies a huge area, most of which has not yet been excavated. The Valley of the Temples itself is an archaeological zone in the south of the ancient city, where several monumental ancient Greek temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th - 6th centuries BC, have been preserved. In the evenings, the temples are illuminated, creating a unique atmosphere. Some of the temples from the valley are surprisingly well preserved, which is unparalleled outside Greece. The name “Valley of Temples” itself is not entirely correct: there is no valley here, and the complex of temples is located on a steep hill.

• Opening hours: daily, including Sunday and holidays, from 8:30 to 19:00.
• Entrance:
• East side with the Temple of Zeus and the Greco-Roman quarter, except for the cave Fragapane and Antiquarium Paleocristiano) - 10 € , reduced 5 €
• The entire park-museum: 10 € , reduced 5 €
• Antiquarium Paleocristiano: 3 €, reduced price 1.5 €
• Cave Fragapane: 3 €, reduced 1.5 €
• Night visit (from July 1 to September 5, Fri 19:30 - 21:30, on weekends and holidays 19:30 - 23:30) - 10 €
• In summer the park can be very hot and there is almost no shade: take water and a hat.

History of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento

The first to discover this historical monument, and also to begin clearing and carrying out the first excavations of the temple complex, was the Italian archaeologist Domenico Antonio Lofaso Pietrasanta (1783 - 1863). This happened at the beginning of the 19th century. In 1809, he inherited the title of Duke of Serradifalco, and it so happened that temple complex ended up on the territory of his possessions. True, after only three years he had to part with his ownership rights in connection with the abolition of feudalism. However, this time was enough for the enthusiastic archaeologist to present his findings to the public.

The philosopher Empedocles (5th century BC), originally from ancient Akragas, said:

“The power and splendor of this city are such that its inhabitants build temples as if they were destined to live forever, and eat and drink as if they were destined to die the next day.”

The poet Pindar called Akragas "the most beautiful city among mortals." However, in 406 BC the city was besieged and destroyed by the Carthaginians. Traces of their invasion are still visible in the Temple of Juno.

During the Roman Empire, the "Tomb of Theron" was built on this site, which is believed to have been a necropolis for those killed during the Second Punic War (218 - 202 BC). After Byzantium recaptured the territory of Sicily from the Gothic tribes, some of the temples were turned into Christian churches, such as the Temple of Concord. Catacombs and tombs have been preserved from the Byzantines.

Architecture in the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento:

In the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento there are 7 ancient temples, all in the Doric style:

• Temple of Juno, built in the 5th century BC and burned in 406 BC. by the Carthaginians. Weddings were usually celebrated in this temple.
• Temple of Concord (Concordia), whose name comes from a Latin peace inscription found nearby. The temple was built in the 5th century BC. Converted into a Christian church in the 6th century AD, it is one of the best preserved in the valley.
• Temple of Hercules, who was one of the most revered deities in the ancient city of Akragas. This is the oldest temple in the valley: destroyed by an earthquake, it today consists of eight columns.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus, built in 480 BC to commemorate the city-state's victory over Carthage. It differs from others in its huge atlases.
• Temple of Castor and Pollux. Despite the fact that only four columns remained, the temple became a symbol of modern Agrigento.
• Temple of Vulcan, also built in the 5th century BC. It is believed to have been one of the most impressive structures in the valley; now, however, it is one of the most destroyed.
• Temple of Asclepius, located near the walls of the ancient city; Pilgrims came here seeking to be cured of illness.

The best preserved are two similar temples dedicated to the goddess Juno and the Temple of Concord. The latter of the two temples was in uniquely good condition thanks to its conversion into a Christian church in 597. And the area around it was used by Christians as catacombs.

Temple of Concord

Temple of Concord (Tempio della Concordia)- was divided into three halls: the central one, the portico in front of it and the opisthodome next to it (a closed room in the western part of the temple). On the sides of the entrance to the central hall there were stairs leading to the roof. The temple was decorated with white stucco and colored details. Twelve arches made in the walls of the hall, as well as graves dug in the floor, date back to the Middle Ages, when the castle was converted into a kind of Christian basilica with three naves. Despite the fact that the original appearance of the ancient Greek temple was thus distorted, the temple owes its exceptional preservation to this reconstruction. In 1788, during the restoration process, all elements of Christian decoration were removed, and the temple again acquired the appearance of a classical antique structure.

Other temples survive in a much more fragmented state, having been destroyed by earthquakes and used as quarries.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Huge completely destroyed Temple of Olympian Zeus. Its construction began by order of the hero Heron in honor of his victory over the Phoenician troops at the Battle of Himera (480 BC). The temple, which had already begun to be used, was never completed due to the invasion of the Carthaginians. This is the largest Doric temple (56 m wide and 111 m long) known in the world. Stones from the destroyed temple were used to build a pier in the city of Porto Empedocle.

Temples dedicated to Hephaestus, Heracles and Asclepius were also built on the sacred grounds, which also included the sanctuaries of Demeter and Persephone. Fire marks from the Carthaginian arson in 406 BC can still be seen on the stones of the sanctuary.

Terone's Tomb (Tomba di Terone)

Location of monuments in the Valley of the Temples:

Old town of Agrigento

Museo Civico

Walking west along Via Empédocle you will reach Piazza Pirandello. Here is the city hall of Agrigento and the City Museum - Museo Civico. The museum contains paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries, sculptures from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. You can also see the memorial room of Luigi Pirandello.

Address:Cortile St Spirito, I-92100 Agrigento

Santa Maria dei Greci

Climbing up from the Museo Civico, along narrow streets you can reach the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci. It is a three-nave building dating from the Norman period, built on the site of a Doric temple of Athena dating from 488 BC. The stairs lead down to the space under the church, where the terraces and columns of the original temple have been preserved.

Agrigento Cathedral (Duomo; Cattedrale di San Gerlando)

The Cathedral of Agrigento was built in the 11th century by the Normans on the very high point ancient Acropolis, as a replacement for the Temple of Zeus Atabyrios. The name comes from the word Atabyros, herself high mountain on the island of Rhodes, reflecting the Rhodian origins of the first settlers of ancient Akragas.

Unfortunately, already in 1244, as a result of a landslide, the temple received serious damage, which required its reconstruction. In the 13th and 14th centuries Cathedral was expanded and in the 17th century it was remodeled in Baroque style. WITH south side the double Norman windows can be seen. Next to the massive bell tower (1470), several steps lead to the main gate of the church.

Interior of the Cathedral of Agrigento

The interior of the church is a three-nave basilica, which was restored after the devastating earthquake of 1966. During the restoration process, they tried to restore the medieval appearance of the nave. With more later periods Only the magnificent 15th-century wooden ceiling survives, although the choir rooms still retain obvious Baroque decor. The Gothic appearance has been preserved in the front part of the church - columns with octagonal bases and characteristic pointed arches. Elements of the façade and bell tower date back to the Renaissance. Its southern facade with lancet windows shows signs of influence from the Spanish Plateresque style.

In the Gothic chapel to the right of the apse, a silver coffin containing the remains of the canonized Bishop Gerlando (1639) is kept. In the church along the left nave there are crypts of archbishops and noble citizens who lived in the 15th-17th centuries. Near the southern entrance there is a glass urn containing the embalmed body of the holy martyr Felix, who died in the 3rd century.

To the west of the cathedral is the episcopal seminary, a 14th-century palace rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Diocesan Museum

The museum displays church treasures, including frescoes from the 15th and 15th centuries and sacred relics from the Byzantine era.

Address: Piazza Don Minzoni, I-92100 Agrigento, Italy

Going down from the Diocesan Museum in the direction of the station, you will come to the square Piazza Purgatorio, named after the church of del Purgatorio (Church of Purgatory, as it is dedicated to the souls in purgatory) located here, or St. Lawrence. The church is located on the site of an ancient crypt.

The interior of the temple is richly decorated with stucco, including eight plaster statues by Giacomo Serpotta (17th century), depicting allegories of the virtues: Love, Simplicity, Mercy, Prudence, Justice, Religion, Courage and Meekness. On the vault are plaster images of the souls of purgatory. There is a decorative dome on the ceiling, decorated with a large fresco in the form of an ascending vortex. One of the church's chapels, the Crucifixion Chapel, was decorated in the 18th century; it is decorated with gold and wooden crucifixes from the 17th century. The temple preserves two confessional boxes from the 17th century - the oldest in Agrigento.

Church of the Holy Spirit

Walking down the street Via Fodera you will come to the former Cistercian monastery of the Holy Spirit (Santo Spirito). The facade of the church (dating from about 1260) retains the original Gothic pointed gate and rose window, the top of which abuts the Baroque pediment. For its grandiose architectural masses that dominate the eastern part of the city, it received the name Bataranni, which means “big abbey” in the local dialect.

The sides of the church walls are decorated with plaster reliefs by the famous master Giacomo Serpotta (1695), which depict scenes from the childhood of Jesus. In a niche made in the left wall of the nave, there is a marble statue of the Virgin and Child (15th century). Note the bowl of holy water - it dates back to the 5th century.

To the right of the church there is a cloister, a chapter house and a refectory, which now houses the municipal library.

Church of San Biagio

If you go from Piazza Marconi (opposite Agrigento train station) along Viale della Vittoria to the southeast, you will reach the eastern edge of the Rupe Atenea cliff (351 m above sea level, with wonderful panoramic views) and the church of Chiesa di San Biadgio. This is a small church built in the 12th century during the Norman reign from stones left over from ancient buildings. The church is located on the site of the Temple of Demeter, which was built around 480 - 460 BC. The foundations and part of the north wall can be seen behind the church apse. It is also worth paying attention to two round altars in the north of the building, which presumably served as sacred tombs. Ritual accessories were preserved inside them, which made it possible to identify the sanctuary:

Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone

The stairs lead down to the stone sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone (Santuario Rupestre di Demetra), carved into the steep mountainside Rupe Atenea. It is Agrigento's oldest place of worship, dating back to the 7th century BC, pre-Greek period. The sanctuary is a narrow room in the rock, behind which there are two caves. There are springs in the caves, the water from which fills several reservoirs in the courtyard. The discovery of ritual sacrificial implements made it possible to confidently attribute the sanctuary to the cult of the goddess Demeter and her daughter.

Almond Flower Festival

The Almond Blossom Festival is held annually in the first half of February. These are folk festivals, with songs, dances, costumes and fireworks.

Map of the city of Agrigento

Around Agrigento

Realmonte - Eraclea Minoa - Sciacca - Caltabellotta - Sambuca

The route goes along west coast Sicily, along the main road 115 Agrigento-Trapani. The high road offers excellent views of the beaches and cliffs. The snow-white cliffs in the area are especially popular among tourists. Realmonte And Eraclea Minoa.

Eraclea Minoa

For history buffs, the most interesting point will be the town Eraclea Minoa, founded in the early 6th century BC. The ancient residential area is located on a small plateau overlooking the sea. Among the ancient ruins you can see the remains of a theater, a residential building and part of ancient road. A small museum next to the archaeological site contains the most important finds from the Greco-Roman period. Located nearby big beach with fine sand and lush cedar forest. Continuing along road 115 you will reach Sciacca.

Sciacca

Sciacca notable for its medieval and Baroque monuments, among which the 17th century cathedral stands out. Also worth seeing are the Church of St. Margaret (14th century), the remains of the count's castle (14th century). The city is home to an ancient spa resort, long famous for its wonderful waters. At the top of Monte Kronio is the sanctuary of St. Calogero (santuario di S. Calogero).

From here there is a road deep into Sicily, towards Caltabellotta and Sambuca di Sicilia.

Caltabellotta

Caltabellotta located almost on the top of the mountain at an altitude of almost 700 meters. A number of artistic and monumental works are worth seeing here. historical monuments: remains of a Norman castle, burials (tombe sicane), church of the Chiesa Madre (built by Count Ruggiero). From here you can see some of the most best views Sicily.

Sambuca di Sicilia

Sambuca di Sicilia was founded by the Arabs. The ruins of the castle of Emir Zabut are preserved here. The city has preserved an interesting complex of Saracen alleys. On the nearby mountain, Monte Adranone (approx. 900 m above sea level), there are the ruins of a fortress from the 4th century BC. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the surrounding area - Porto Palo and Lido Fiore.

On the territory of Realmonte there is preserved Ancient Roman villa, dating from the 1st century BC.

Acque Calde- a popular resort with thermal springs.

Pelagian Islands - Lampedusa and Linosa

This route leads from Agrigento to the Pelagian islands of Lampedusa, Linosa and Lampione, located in the African Sea southwest of Sicily. On the islands you can admire picturesque views of nature, rocky islands, idyllic beaches contrasting with the azure sea. You can reach the islands between April and November. The Pelagian Islands are connected to the port Empedocle by Siremar ferries (journey time - 7 hours), and in July and August there are additional boats (3.5 hours journey).

• Lampedusa- the largest of the Pelagie Islands, it even has its own airport where flights take place regular flights from Punta Raisi (Palermo) airport. There are many hotels on the island; it is especially suitable for diving enthusiasts.
• Linosa- a small island of volcanic origin, with rich marine life, where many diving enthusiasts come throughout the year.
• Lampione- a small uninhabited rock with picturesque nature.

Raffadali - S. Angelo Muxaro

This route will take you from Agrigento into the interior of Sicily to two historical centers, different from other cities on the island.

Raffadali, from Arabic Rahl Faddal, meaning “Beautiful House”. Raffadali was founded by the Arabs, but on a site inhabited since the prehistoric period. This town is located a few kilometers north of Agrigento, at the foot of Monte Guastella, where prehistoric cave burials and the ruins of an ancient castle from the 11th century are preserved. Here you can see ancient Roman sarcophagi (3 centuries). In the Chiesa Madre church there is an elegant bas-relief depicting the abduction of Proserfina. The church library contains some archaeological finds different eras.

The total area of ​​the monument is about 1300 hectares. In the VI century. BC. Greek settlers founded the colony of Akragas here, which was conquered by the Carthaginians two centuries later. Witnesses rich history cities - Doric temples, squares, pagan and Christian burial grounds, as well as a dense water supply network.

Bird's eye view of the valley

Scientists have discovered in the valley the ruins of as many as ten Doric temples and three sanctuaries, as well as many burials, fragments of a fortification system and part of an ancient Roman quarter built on the site of an ancient Greek one. There were also two market squares where meetings were held (in Greek they were called "agora"), and an administrative building for city council meetings - the bouleuterium.

Temples

Temple of the Dioscuri. Photo © Merlijn Hoek, Angelo Milioto / Flickr.com

The temple of the mythical Dioscuri twins Castor and Pollux, sons of Jupiter (Zeus) and the wife of the Spartan king Leda, became a symbol of Agrigento.

Temple of Concordia. Photo / Shutterstock.com

The temple of the goddess of concord, Concordia, stands on the sacred road; it was built around the 5th century. BC. and is distinguished by the best preservation among the entire complex. In the VI century. AD A Christian church was built in it. The original purpose of the temple was determined by an inscription found near the building.

Temple of Concordia. Photo © mariocutroneo, Merlijn Hoek / Flickr.com

The Temple of Jupiter (Zeus) was built in gratitude for the victory of the inhabitants of Akragas over the Carthaginians in 480 BC. A gigantic figure of Atlas, consisting of massive stone blocks, has been preserved here.

Temple of Zeus. Photo © Dennis Jarvis, Terry Feuerborn / Flickr.com

Temple of Hercules (Hercules)

The Temple of Hercules (Hercules) is the oldest in the valley; the cult of the legendary hero was one of the central ones in Akragas. The building contained a bronze statue of Hercules; the temple was destroyed by an earthquake, and today only eight columns remain.

Temple of Hercules. Photo © poudou99 / Wikimedia Commons

Temple of Juno Lacinia

The Temple of Juno Lacinia (scientists find it difficult to establish with accuracy who the temple is dedicated to, so the name is conditional) stands on a spectacular cliff on the eastern part of the hill. There are cellas on the walls ( interior space, limit) traces of the fire are still clearly visible: in 406 BC. this temple, almost indistinguishable from the Temple of Concordia, was destroyed by the Carthaginians. Near the ruins of the temple you can see a large altar for sacrifices (on the eastern side) and a section of road with deep tracks from the wheels of carts passing along it.

Temple of Juno Lacinia. Photo © Angelo Milioto, mariocutroneo / Flickr.com

The temple of the god of healing, Aesculapius, was built quite far from the walls of the ancient city: the sick flocked here, praying for recovery. The walls of the temple were covered with inscriptions of gratitude from those who were lucky enough to be cured.

The Temple of Vulcan (Hephaestus) was built in the 5th century. BC. and, apparently, had quite an impressive scale. Unfortunately, very little of it remains today. The ruins of an even more ancient and very small temple were discovered in the foundation.

Next to the Golden Gate is the so-called “Tomb of Theron”. It is in no way connected with the ruler of Akragant, Theron: in fact, this pyramidal structure made of tuff is a monument to those killed in the Second Punic War (Rome against Carthage, 218-201 BC).

Acropolis and Burial Grounds

Agora. Photo © Harvey Barrison / Flickr.com

The agora, the market square that served as the main center of public life in the Greek city-states, also makes a great impression. In addition, it is worth visiting the “Council Hall” to the north of the San Nicola hill and the gymnasium, a place where the townspeople played sports, studied and spent their leisure time.

Byzantine and early Christian burials. Photo © Clemensfranz / Wikimedia Commons, © Dennis Jarvis / Flickr.com

The valley contains many Greek, Roman and early Christian necropolises located just outside the ancient city. Also noteworthy are the plumbing, floor mosaics from Greek and Roman residential areas, as well as early Christian basilicas of the subsequent era - for example, near the Temple of Concordia.

IN Italian region Sicily is the city of Agrigento. Current modern city arose on the site of the ancient settlement of Akragas, founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC.

general information

On the map of Italy, Agrigento is located in the southwestern part of the island of Sicily. The climate in the city is moderately warm. Maximum temperature in summer is +25. In winter, temperatures range from +10 to +15. The greatest amount of precipitation falls in the winter months.

Important! Agrigento does not have its own airport. You can fly to Catania, Palermo and Trapani.

The city can be easily reached by bus or train. From the capital of Sicily, Palermo, where it is located international Airport, there are several trains a day. Agrigento can be reached from Catania, where the airport is also located.

Ancient town of Agrigento

Ticket price: From Palermo - 8…13 euros*. The duration of the trip is 2 hours. From Catania a ticket costs 15...23 euros. The duration of the trip is 6 hours.

The bus in Silicia is considered the main transport. You can get to Agrigento by bus from Palermo, Catania and Trapani.

Ticket prices: from Palermo - 11 euros, travel duration - 2 hours; from Trapani - from 48 euros, travel time - 5 hours; from Catania - 17...24 euros, travel time - 5 hours.

In addition to bus and train, you can get to the city by car. Map coordinates for motorists: the SS 189 highway leads from Palermo to the city.

Important! Agrigento is almost entirely pedestrian and it is almost impossible to enter the city by car. You can find a place to park your car near the station, where the parking lot is located.

Valley of the Temples

Agrigento (Sicily): description of the main attractions

The main attraction of the city is the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento. It is located a few kilometers from the city center. The valley is an area where the remains of ancient temple buildings are located. The buildings were erected by the ancient Greeks living in this territory (ancient Akragas) in the 5th-6th centuries BC. e. The archaeological park is divided by road into two parts.

Temple of Concordia

This temple is better preserved than all the ancient buildings that have survived to this day. It is also called the Temple of Concord. This Doric-style ritual structure was erected in 430 BC. e. The temple has a 4-corner shape with columns around the perimeter.

Temple of Concordia

The columns were designed by ancient Greek architects in such a way as to create an optical illusion for those present (the structure looks much more massive and majestic than it actually is). In the 7th century BC. e. the temple became Christian Church Saints Peter and Paul.

Temple of Hera and Juno Lacinia

This temple is located at the highest point compared to other buildings. It was erected in 450 BC. e. Previously, the building had 38 columns. Only 25 of them have survived to this day.

There is a belief that it was in this temple that a painting depicting the goddess Juno, painted by the ancient Greek painter Zeuxis, was kept.

Temple of Hera and Juno Lacinia

Temple of Hercules

Its purpose was to personify the strength and power of Hercules, revered in Sicily. Of the 38 columns, only 8 have survived to this day. The structure dates back to 510 BC. e.

Temple of Jupiter

It was built in the second half of the 4th century BC. e. It was the most majestic of all temples. It was surrounded by 38 semi-columns, 6.5 meters in circumference. The temple was supported by telamons (sculptural images of men, also called Atlanteans) 7.5 meters in height. Only remnants of its former greatness have survived to this day. The original of one of the telamons is kept in the National Archaeological Museum.

In addition to the above buildings, in the Valley of Temples you can see the remains of temples:

• Dioskurov;
• Aesculapius;
• Ephesus or Vulcan;
• Also on the territory there are necropolises of early Christians.

Additional Information! Entrance to the Valley of the Temples is paid - 5 euros, reduced - 3 euros. Opening hours: daily from 8:30 to 19:00.

Agrigento itself in Sicily is also of interest to tourists: it has preserved medieval buildings, and also has many churches, museums, squares and alleys. In the city itself the following attractions are of interest:

• Cathedral. The cathedral building along with the bell tower remained unfinished. The building has excellent acoustics. Inside you can admire beautiful paintings. It was erected in the middle of the 15th century.
• Bishop's Palace and Seminary (14th century), as well as the building of the Lucesian Library. All these buildings are located opposite the Cathedral.
• Church of Santa Maria dei Greci. Its building was erected on the ruins of the ancient temple of Athena.
• Teatro Luigi Pirangelo (18th century).
• City Museum, located in Piazza Pirandello. The city hall is also located there. Address: Cortile St Spirito, I-92100 Agrigento.
• Diocesan Museum.
• Church of St. Lawrence, Holy Spirit, San Biagio.
• Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone.
• Archaeological Museum (considered the largest and most visited museum).

Temple of Jupiter

Excursions

To better understand the history of all the sights of Agrigento, it is worth booking a tour of iconic places cities. The cost of excursions starts from 200 euros. In addition to excursions around the city itself, you can book a tour of other provinces of Sicily and look at local attractions.

Types of recreation

Agrigento is famous for its beaches. Best time For holidays on them - this is summer - mid-autumn. There are no beaches in the city itself, but the journey to the suburban ones will take no more than 15...20 minutes.

• San Leone beach. It is located not far from the main attraction of the city - the Valley of the Temples. During high season, the beach is filled with vacationers.
• Scala dei Turchi. Here beautiful nature, sandy beach and very warm sea water, which is suitable for relaxing with a child.
• You can also note such beaches as Kaos, Marinella, Lido Azzuro.

In addition to relaxing on the beaches, you can stroll through the streets of the city and try to get into the spirit of the Middle Ages - here it won’t be too difficult. True, the appearance of the city itself creates a feeling of dilapidation, but this will not prevent you from taking excellent photographs that convey the mood of Agrigento.

A few kilometers from Agrigento is San Leone, a tourist spot by the sea. You can go here after everything in Agrigento has been explored interesting places. There are amusement parks for adults and children here. From here you can also go to boat trip on the ship.

San Leone Beach

You can take a gastronomic tour of Agrigento. The city is famous for its cuisine, just like any other city in Italy. Definitely worth a try:

• pasta with sardines;
• various types of mussels, fried fish;
• local delicacy - marinated shrimp;
• Kubaita's signature dessert is a confectionery product with sweet honey and roasted almond grains.

Tourist information

When going on an excursion to the Valley of the Temples in the summer, you should definitely take with you a minimum supply of drinking water and a hat.

There are few hotels in the city, but you can choose an option and find both a 5-star hotel and a 3-star hotel.

On a note! In February, hundreds of almond trees bloom in the Valley of the Temples, which gives the place a special beauty.

The direction of Agrigento Sicily can rightfully be called one of the most interesting. This city is definitely worth a visit. It contains everything you need to get vivid impressions, a sea of ​​emotions and wonderful memories of what he saw.

*Prices indicated in the article are current at the time of publication of the material.