Beaches of Agrigento Sicily. Agrigento, Sicily. Getting to know modern Agrigento: city streets
How to get to Agrigento
Agrigento is considered a beautiful historical town located on the southwest coast of Sicily. The bulk of tourists are attracted to Agrigento by the opportunity to see the so-called “Valley of Temples”, where many ancient objects and monuments have been preserved. Agrigento is considered a popular excursion destination from Palermo and Catania.
You can get to Agrigento from any Sicilian town, but most often, tourists arrive here from Palermo or Catania, two major cities on the island that have international arrival airports. Both Palermo and Catania can be reached from Russia by air. There are direct flights to Palermo, and flights to Catania with transfers in Rome or Milan. Flight schedules can be checked on search engines. Aviasales , Buruki and others. You can also arrive in Sicily by ferry from mainland Italy.
Palermo – Agrigento
The distance between Palermo and Agrigento is about 130 km in a straight line. There are several ways to get from Palermo to Agrigento: public transport (buses, trains), or renting a car. There is a daily train service between the cities, 1-2 times an hour throughout the day. Travel time from Palermo will be about 2 hours, and the fare will be 10-11 euros one way. You can check the schedule and purchase tickets online at the railway service
.
You can also get there by regular bus in about the same time. Buses depart every 2 hours throughout the day. The first bus leaves at 8.15, the last at 18.00. The fare is 9 euros one way. The departure station in Palermo is Pizzetta Cairoli, the arrival station in Agrigento is Piazzetta Rosselli.
In order to travel around Sicily at your own pace and rhythm, you can rent a car in Palermo. Rental offices can be found both in the city itself and at the arrival airport. To register a car for rent you will need a foreign passport, an international driving license, bank card to pay for services. You can book the desired class of car in advance using special services. , , and others. Palermo and Agrigento are connected by highways SS121 and SS189. Approximate travel time is 2 hours.
Herbert Frank/View of the Valley of the Temples Catania – Agrigento
The distance between Catania and Agrigento is 160 km. From one settlement the other can also be reached by public transport or rented car. However, there are only regional trains between Catania and Agrigento, so the journey time will be about 4 hours. Trains depart once in the morning, several times in the afternoon and twice in the evening. The last train leaves at 17.32. The fare varies from 12 to 20 euros one way. You can check the schedule and purchase tickets online at the railway service
.
As for buses, they run more often, almost every hour. Transportation is carried out by bus company SAIS TRASPORTI. The fare is 13.4 euros one way and 22 euros round trip.
Much It will be faster to get there by car. Catania and Agrigento are connected by roads No. A19 and SS640. Travel time will be about 2 hours. You can rent a car both in Catania itself and at the arrival airport. This option is quite popular among tourists traveling around Sicily. You can book the desired class of car in advance (before departure) using specialized services , , and others. Advance booking is especially important in the summer, when the influx of tourists to the island increases sharply.
Darold Massaro/Around Agrigento Agrigento Hotels
Agrigento is significantly removed from other tourist centers of Sicily, so tourists coming for sightseeing often stay in Agrigento for longer than 1 day. All conditions have been created for this in Agrigento, and there is the opportunity to stay in accommodations to suit every taste. The most popular options are bed and breakfast hotels. Also in demand are apartments, holiday homes, guest houses and, of course, standard hotels of various star categories. High ratings from tourists on Booking.com received the following placements in Agrigento:
Hotel Agrigento Home – the hotel is located in the city center and offers its guests rooms of various sizes, including family rooms. There is free parking on site, a bar, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are paid extra. The rooms are decorated in studio style and have a separate kitchen area;
La Passeggiata di Girgenti – This bed and breakfast has a convenient location. You can stay in rooms of varying sizes; each room has a coffee/tea maker. Breakfast is included in the price. Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout the hotel. Free public parking is available nearby;
Le Maioliche – the hotel is located close to the city center, as well as the railway and bus stations. It offers a relaxing terrace, parking and spacious rooms. Breakfast is included in the price. The front desk provides tour desk and luggage storage services. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge;
La Terrazza di Carolina – the hotel is located near the center and can offer its guests a terrace for relaxation, family rooms, free Wi-Fi, parking. Some rooms have a balcony overlooking the historical Center. Breakfast is included in the price. Wi-Fi is available in hotel rooms free of charge;
B&B Sorahnia – Design House – the hotel has a picturesque location, with rooms offering views of the garden and mountains. Guests can stay in rooms of varying sizes, some with a terrace. Breakfast is included in the price. Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout the hotel. Free private parking is also available.
Allie_Caulfield/Nature around Agrigento Attractions of Agrigento
Agrigento itself has a compact historical center, in which the main attractions are: Cathedral cities and Church of Santa Maria dei Greci. Also considered a curious object is the local Archaeological Museum. But the main attraction for which people come to Agrigento from all over the island is the so-called Valley of the Temples, located in the outskirts of the city.
The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological museum under open air. Ancient Greek artifacts have been preserved here in fairly good condition. Temples of Juno-Lacinia And Concordia, as well as some other objects.
Eduardo M./Valley of the Temples, Agrigento The park museum is open to visitors daily, with park opening hours extended in the summer to allow tourists to enjoy the sights at sunset. You can buy tickets online or at the box office, but please note that during the “high season” there are queues at the entrance to the park due to the popularity of this place.
If you want to combine sightseeing with swimming in the sea, then you should keep in mind that Agrigento itself is not on the coast, but a few kilometers away. So, the nearest beach is located in the town San Leone, here the beach is sandy and the shore is flat. If you want to see more picturesque places, then go to the place Scala dei Turchi, where the rocky shores go straight into the sea.
Herbert Frank/Valley of the Temples, Agrigento Agrigento- a city with undeniable charm, preserving archaeological monuments of unforgettable beauty and memories of the peoples who have imprinted its name throughout the centuries.
Akragas for the Greeks, Agrigenta for the Romans, Kerkent Germent for the Arabs and Girgenti for the Normans: the name Agrigento was officially given to the city during the Nazi occupation, due to the mispronunciation of the Latin name "in Italian".
Agrigento located on the top of a hill, in the very place chosen by the Arabs, who completely rebuilt the city after its conquest and total destruction. Historical evidence of the pristine Akragas and Greek rule remains only in the Valley of the Temples, located at the very base of this hill.
The panorama that Agrigento offers will certainly captivate everyone: close proximity towards the sea, a hilly landscape with an endless array of olive, orange and almond trees and flowers, cobblestone alleys and small courtyards that form the center of the city. All this has a mysterious charm, which increases sharply in the pre-sunset hours.
Panorama of the Temple of Juno. Photo flickr.com
Agrigento is without a doubt a city that will not leave its visitor disappointed, because it is simply impossible to get bored here. Churches, palaces, museums, archaeological sites, fountains, squares and streets: this city, located in the southwest of Sicily, preserves many sites of historical, artistic and archaeological heritage of various cultures and peoples.
It should be noted that one of the leading writers of Italy, Luigi Pirandello, Nobel Prize winner in 1934, was born in the province of Agrigento.
A Brief History of Agrigento
Founded in 581 BC Greek settlers from Rhodes and Crete, Akragas quickly became one of the most important cities Ancient Greece, the second most important Greek colony after.
Urban area Greek Akragas totaled 456 hectares and was surrounded by fortress walls with nine gates. The population of the city was about 300,000 inhabitants, and Akragas himself was known among the Greek poets as “the most beautiful city mortals." The city reached its peak in the fifth century BC, under the rule of the tyrant Theron, who expanded his possessions to north coast Sicily. During this period, art and culture flourished in Akragas: the temple of Zeus was built and most of temples that can still be seen today in the Valley of the Temples.
Remains of the Temple of Zeus in the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento. Photo flickr.com
In 210 BC. the city was conquered by the Romans and annexed, however, in subsequent centuries, Agrigento, still under Roman rule, experienced an Arab invasion. The conquerors destroyed the city almost completely and then founded a settlement on the top of the hill, where today you can admire the historical center of the city in a typical Arab shape, with small alleys and courtyards that converge on the Via Atenea, which continues to be the most important “artery” of the city to this day.
Via Atenea crosses the entire historical center of Agrigento and houses many beautiful palaces and churches, which are sometimes completely different in architectural style. The temples and churches of the city contain treasures that are often unknown to the general public, for example, numerous works by Serpot and Ghajini can be seen here. In the very heart of the old city, as many centuries ago, small private taverns are open, where wine is poured, anchovies and Sicilian olives are served.
In 1087, Agrigento was conquered by the Normans. The Normans gave new impetus to the development of art and Christian culture, built numerous churches and fortifications that protected Agrigento from Saracen pirates.
In the 18th century, the city was under the rule of the Bourbons, until 1860, when Sicily was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy.
Today Agrigento has an area of 245 square meters. km, the city is located at an altitude of 230 m from sea level and has about 55,500 inhabitants.
What to see in Agrigento?
Historical Center
The historic center of Agrigento is rich in historical monuments and palaces that tell the story of the city's glorious past, but unfortunately today Old city is in a state of desolation. Nevertheless, this fact does not prevent tourists from walking along its streets and admiring many places of historical and artistic interest.
The main street of Agrigento is Via Atenea. Feast of San Calogero. Photo flickr.com
Churches
In Agrigento you will find many religious buildings that are worthy of your attention: from the Church of the Addolorata, famous for its underground crypts, to the Church of San Francesco di Paola, with two beautiful bell towers; from the “representative” of the Baroque - the church of San Giuseppe to the 16th century Greek-Albanian church of Del Itria. Besides, interesting temples, from an architectural and historical point of view, are
The Church of San Lorenzo, in Baroque style, with a façade decorated with numerous statues;
Basilica Immaculate Conception with a beautiful interior containing marble tombs of nobles and clergy;
Church of St. Nicholas, where the wooden crucifix is located, which is the story of Pirandello's short story.
Don't forget to visit the Cathedral, now known as the Cathedral of St. Geraldo, the city's patron saint. This building was built in 1100, and its construction took more than 200 years!
Cathedral of Agrigento. Interior. Photo flickr.com
These are just some of the basilicas and churches that the city of Agrigento offers to explore. In addition to photo sessions in front of each of the city's temples, we recommend that you go inside and appreciate the heritage of great significance stored in each of them.
Palaces and other interesting architectural sites
In addition to religious monuments, Agrigento offers many tourist attractions most beautiful buildings and structures. This should include City Hall, which was built on the ruins of an ancient Dominican monastery of the 17th century, the Prefectural Palace, built in the second half of the 19th century, the post office building of the fascist era and the Palazzo del Genio Civile. The list of interesting buildings should also include the Pirandello Theater (previously dedicated to Queen Margaret and only after 1946 to the famous writer), as well as the Municipal Theater of the city, built by Giovanni Battista Basile and Dionisio Sciascia.
Piazza Pirandello. Agrigento. Photo flickr.com
Parental home of Luigi Pirandello
Anyone who comes to Agrigento must go to the family home of Luigi Pirandello, where the Nobel Prize laureate was born in 1867.
Squares and avenues
Much of Agrigento's beauty comes from its avenues and squares. Start your walk from Viale della Vittoria, where Villa Bonfiglio is located, the most beautiful park of the city, with its green spaces, then take a stroll through Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, filled with beautiful buildings, do not miss Piazza Cavour and Marconi and, of course, Via Atenea, which runs through the entire city.
Piazza Municipio. Agrigento. Photo flickr.com
Museums
The museums of Agrigento are certainly worth visiting. Among all the regional museums, the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento stands out in importance, the most visited in all of Sicily: its collections allow you to take a journey through the history, art and ethnography of the region. Don't miss the Museo Civico, located in Piazza Municipio, which houses some medieval and Renaissance sculptures and paintings of great artistic importance.
Province of Agrigento
Lovers beach holiday A must-go is San Leone Beach, the most famous and celebrated beach in the entire province of Agrigento, located at the foot of the Valley of the Temples. In summer, this beach is always crowded with a crowd of vacationers. Another must-stop in the province of Agrigento is the town of Porto Empedocle, birthplace of Pirandello and the modern Italian writer Andrea Camilleri. In addition, this seaside town contains the ruins of an ancient Roman villa.
San Leone beach. Sunset. Photo flickr.com
Valley of the Temples
Although the city of Agrigento cannot compare in beauty with, or Rome, it has something to offer tourists. Travelers from all over the world come to Agrigento to admire business card of this Sicilian city: a picturesque valley of temples, which is nothing more than the ruins of ancient Akragas, that is, the pristine Greek Agrigento. Situated southeast of the center of Agrigento, this valley allows us to imagine the period of prosperity and greatness of the city under the rule of the Greek Empire. Here the ancient Greeks erected a series of Doric temples in the fifth century BC; some of them are still perfectly preserved, of some only remains remain, but even the sight of the ruins leaves every tourist speechless.
There is an entrance fee and the valley is open from 9:00 am to sunset.
Main attractions of the Valley of the Temples:
Temple of Concordia (Tempio della Concordia)
This is one of the most impressive and best preserved temples. Built around 430 BC, the Temple of Concordia or Concord is a Doric-style ritual building that resembles almost 100% famous temple Parthenon in Athens. The temple has a quadrangular shape and is 20 meters wide and 42 meters wide. Its columns were built by ancient Greek architects in such a way as to introduce everyone into a state of optical illusion: the temple looks taller and more majestic than it actually is.
Temple of Concordia. Photo flickr.com
Temple of Zeus (Tempio di Zeus)
Made in rows of seven columns, unlike all other temples, which are based on six columns, the Temple of Zeus is one of largest buildings in the Valley: its dimensions are 113 meters long and 36 wide. Unfortunately, the temple was not completed. The temple in honor of the god Zeus, lord of Olympus, was built in honor of the victory of the Carthaginians, but today only a number of columns remain from this temple. Next to this temple is Atlas, which once supported the temple vaults (now in a recumbent position), 8 meters in height.
Atlant. Temple of Zeus. Photo flickr.com
Other temples
The rest of the temples are even worse preserved, but it is worth noting the Temple of Hercules (Tempio di Ercole), probably the oldest in the Valley, the Temple of Juno (Tempio di Giunone), the Temple of Dioscuri (tempio dei Dioscuri), the tomb of Theron (la tomba di Theron), the Temple Castor and Pollux (Tempio di Castoro e Polluce).
Temple of Juno. Photo flickr.com
What to try in Agrigento?
As is customary in cities close to the coast, seafood-based cuisine dominates in Agrigento. Try pasta with sardines, squid soup, cod "alla saccenese", baked mussels with chilli, grilled fish or marinated raw shrimp - these are dishes that you can find in every restaurant. Straying from the sea theme, Agrigento offers a long series of traditional recipes. These include, for example, rabbit stew, sausages with fennel, sesame and chili, lean veal seasoned with cheese and ham, cooked in the oven, etc.
Don't forget to try the sweets that are the real gem of this province of Italy. Caponata and Cassatine, cannoli and almond dough, chocolate and pistachios are just some of the city's main desserts. Almonds are a distinctive pastry addition in the area: among the most famous recipes are the "Cubaita", with honey and roasted almonds, and the "MARTURANA" cakes.
Holidays in Agrigento: main events
Almond Blossom Festival
The most popular event that attracts the whole city is the Almond Blossom Festival. This holiday is celebrated in February to celebrate the imminent arrival of spring in Sicily. The almond blossoms make Agrigento a truly spectacular place this season: thousands of tourists flock to the city during this period as the Valley of the Temples transforms into a music scene, overflowing with scents and soft pink colors. Combined with almond blossom in the heart ancient greek city Two international folklore festivals are held with the presentation of the Golden Temple award to the best folk group.
Almond blossom festival. Photo flickr.com
Feast of San Calogero
A whirlwind of sounds, colors and processions - this is how the festival of San Calogero is celebrated in July for two weeks, despite the fact that this saint is not the patron saint of the city (the protector of Agrigento is San Geraldo). However, according to tradition, it is in honor of San Calogero that Agrigento organizes a huge mass procession with a statue of the saint through the streets of the city, singing folk songs and dancing to the sounds of "Zingarella".
Feast of San Calogero. Photo flickr.com
Festival of Persephone
Numerous exhibitions and performances take place in June in the Valley of the Temples, near the Temple of Hera, to celebrate the ancient Greek festival of Persephone, daughter of Zeus, goddess of fertility.
Blues&Wine Soul Festival
Once again, the Valley of the Temples is the undisputed star of the festival, which takes place in July. A blues and soul music festival, along with wine tasting, takes place among the remains of ancient Akragas - what could be more impressive! A similar event is held in August as part of a festival called "Moments of International Folklore".
Where to stay in Agrigento?
Agrigento offers a good choice hotels, especially three and four star ones. Depending on your needs and your budget, you can choose from different categories of hotels - hotels, agritourism cottages or bed-and-breakfast.
We invite you to familiarize yourself with the Top 5 best hotels province of Agrigento, according to traveler reviews left on Boking.com.
1. Foresteria Baglio Della Luna - Via Serafino Amabile Guastella 1C - C.da Maddalusa (Valle dei Templi), 92100 San Leone, Italy
Hotel Baglio della Luna is 5 km from the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, 800 meters from the beach.
2. Colleverde Park Hotel - Via Dei Templi, 92100 Agrigento, Italy
Colleverde Park Hotel is a 15-minute walk from the famous archaeological excavations of Agrigento and 2 km from its center. The windows overlook the Valley of the Temples.
3. Hotel Exclusive - Via Acrone15, 92100 Agrigento, Italy
Hotel Exclusive is located in the center of Agrigento, opposite the train station. The hotel overlooks the Valley of the Temples and the Mediterranean Sea.
4. Hotel Costazzurra - Via delle Viole 2, 92100 San Leone, Italy
Hotel Costazzurra is located in the seaside resort town San Leone, just 3 km from the Valley of the Temples.
5. Hotel Concordia - Via San Francesco D"Assisi 11, 92100 Agrigento, Italy
Hotel Concordia is located in Agrigento, a 5-minute walk from the train station.
How to get to Agrigento?
By plane
Unfortunately, the city of Agrigento does not have its own airport. You can land in , or , and then take a bus, or perhaps rent a car (via this link). Your efforts will be rewarded when you arrive at your destination!
Palermo Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) serves direct flights from all major Italian and European cities. Once you land in Palermo, you can reach Agrigento by first taking the Trinacria Express train, which leaves every half hour from the airport and goes to Palermo Central Station. There are many trains departing from Palermo Station to Agrigento (travel time is about 2 hours).
There is also a direct bus from Palermo Airport to Agrigento (SAL company).
An alternative is international Airport Catania-Fontanarossa (CTA), where planes of all major international companies land.
From Catania airport there is a direct bus to Agrigento (SAIS Trasporti). Travel time is about 2.5 hours.
By car
From there, take the A18 to Catania, then continue along the A19 towards Palermo, exit at " ", and finally continue along the SS 640 to Agrigento.
From Palermo, take the A19 towards Catania, exit at Villabate, then continue along the SS 121 for about 118 km to your destination.
From there follow the SS 115 state road through Noto, Ragusa and Gela to Agrigento.
From mainland Italy:
follow the A3 highway Salerno-Reggio Calabria, exit at Villa San Giovanni, where ferry crossing to Messina. From Messina, take the A18 to Catania, then continue along the A19 Catania-Palermo, exit at "Caltanissetta", then continue along the SS 640 to Agrigento.
By train
Agrigento has its own train station, but, with the exception of Palermo, train connections with other cities in Sicily and Italy suffer. If you take the train from Taormina or Catania, you will have to make one or more changes.
By bus
The best way to get to Agrigento is by bus, which departs/arrives at the city bus station (Piazza Rosselli).
This largest Italian island is well known to travelers from all over the world due to its abundance of sun, magnificent nature, clear waters warm seas, many unique natural, historical and architectural monuments.
Sicily miraculously combines the bustle, noise of city streets and calm beaches, the mafia and friendly, warm-hearted and hospitable citizens. It seems that it is woven from contradictions. The Greeks, Arabs, and Spaniards left many outstanding monuments here that are a must-see for guests of the country.
Where is Sicily?
The island of Sicily is located south of mainland Italy, between Europe and Africa. In the north it is adjacent to the Apennine Peninsula. To the south of the island is Malta. A little further south are Tunisia and Egypt. In the northwest direction there is another island of Italy - Sardinia. Sicily's eastern neighbor is Greece, from which the island is separated by the Ionian Sea. In addition, Sicily is washed by the Tyrrhenian (in the north) and Mediterranean (in the south and west) seas. For those who like exact numbers, we inform you that geographical coordinates Sicily - 37° 45' 0" N and 14° 15' 0" E. d.
A little history
Today we invite you to make a small virtual tour to one of the ancient cities of Sicily - Agrigento, but first let's get acquainted with some historical facts.
At different periods of its history, this city had different names. The ancient Greeks called it Akragas, the Romans, who were building their mighty empire, renamed it Agrigenta. Centuries later, the Arabs called it Kerkent Germente. The name Girgenti was given to the city by the Norman rulers. The current name was officially adopted in the middle of the 20th century, when the fascist regime ruled in Sicily.
The first mention of a settlement located on the lands where the city of Agrigento in Sicily is now located dates back to the 6th century BC. During this period, Rhodian and Cretan sailors explored the local shores and founded the city of Akragas on the island. Very soon it became an important colony of the Greeks, along with Syracuse, which is located to the south.
Just a few decades later, the city occupied an area of five hundred hectares. Residential and administrative buildings were surrounded by strong walls, which initially had nine gates. It was quite Big City for its time. Akragas was inhabited by more than three hundred thousand inhabitants. They included citizens of other colonies and Greek metropolises, and descendants of the first colonists, as well as slaves.
Historians consider the 5th century BC to be the heyday of the city. e., when it was ruled by the powerful Theron. He managed to constantly expand the city's zone of influence. The Temple of Zeus, built by the Greeks, which was surrounded by other religious buildings, can be considered a real breakthrough for the architects of that time. Some of these buildings have survived in the Valley of the Temples to this day.
When the Western Roman Empire fell, the Byzantines and then the Norman conquerors came to power in Agrigento in Sicily. Later the city was captured by the Spaniards. And only in 1860 the city became part of Italy. Agrigento on the island of Sicily received its current name in the late twenties of the 20th century.
Today, little remains of the former grandeur of a large and important administrative center. The area of the city and its surroundings is only about 250 square meters. km. Population - about 55.5 thousand inhabitants.
Getting to know modern Agrigento: city streets
The city perfectly conveys the spirit of the Middle Ages - narrow streets covered with paving stones, ancient architecture, exquisite fountains. Agrigento (Sicily) is especially beautiful during sunset; the play of shadows turns it into a kind of theatrical backdrop for a play by a great master.
Architecture
Despite its turbulent history, Agrigento (Sicily) has preserved numerous ancient monuments that arouse interest among tourists. These are fortifications and medieval palaces, and several museums, cathedrals, churches and monasteries, large areas and miniature courtyards that preserve the memory of ordinary people and nobles who lived in this city hundreds of years ago. The city has preserved the heritage of dozens of cultures and absorbed all the best of them.
Sicily, Agrigento: holidays
One of the most popular and most visited resorts in the province of Agrigento is undoubtedly Schiaccia. This is a fairly large city, it is famous for its thermal springs and luxurious snow-white beaches, among which it is necessary to highlight the areas of Tonnara, Stazzone, San Marco and Foggia. All these Amazing places ideal for a beach holiday and a relaxing pastime. Unique landscapes, warm and clear waters Mediterranean Sea and comfortable hotels - all this attracts tourists to the resorts of Agrigento (Sicily).
Island holidays are very popular in the province of Agrigento. The Pelagian Islands hospitably open their arms to everyone who wants to sunbathe under the gentle sun.
Beaches of Agrigento
According to experienced travelers, here are the best beaches in Sicily. Agrigento, thanks to its climatic conditions, allows you to enjoy a beach holiday throughout the year. However best time The best time to visit the city is early summer or early autumn. First of all, we recommend that you visit San Leone beach, which is known to everyone who has been to the island. It is located near the famous Valley of the Temples, where the main historical monuments ancient Greek architecture. The sea here is calm, although there are quite a lot of vacationers in the high season.
Be sure to visit the Scala dei Turki beach. Turkish pirates once lived here, thanks to whom the beach got its name. This beautiful place for a calm family vacation. Magnificent nature, comfortable climatic conditions and warm sea water.
What to see in Agrigento?
When visiting this city for the first time, we recommend visiting its historical center. It is here that the main attractions of Agrigento (Sicily) are concentrated - monuments of architecture and art that illustrate the history of this ancient place.
Unfortunately, not much remains of the former grandeur of the Old Town, but tourists with great pleasure wander through the ancient streets and visit places where the spirit of antiquity hovers. The city has several beautiful temples, monumental palaces, spacious squares and shady alleys. In Agrigento (Sicily), the photo of which we posted in this review, will certainly appeal to everyone who loves the unique fabulous beauty of small ancient towns.
Museums
It is probably necessary to dwell in more detail on the city’s museum complex, since visiting museums allows you to better learn the history, culture, and traditions of an unfamiliar place. The largest and most visited is the Archaeological Museum.
You should definitely visit the Civico Museum, where huge galleries house a large number of paintings and sculptures that have come down to us from the Middle Ages.
In 1963, the Diocesan Museum, built according to the design of the architect Minissi, began work in the city. It displays relics from the nearby Cathedral and the Seminary adjacent to it, as well as exhibits documenting the history of the local church, rituals and traditions.
There is another unique establishment in Agrigento (Sicily). This is museum precious stones. Here you can not only enjoy the beauty of precious stones, but also learn to distinguish between natural and artificial minerals, feel like a real gemologist, and work with professional equipment.
Valley of the Temples
Undoubtedly, this is the main attraction of Agrigento (Sicily). Huge temple complex, which amazes and fascinates with its scale and unsurpassed splendor. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come here from different parts of our planet to look with their own eyes at ancient buildings and temples, which, despite the passing centuries, are perfectly preserved.
To get here, you need to go to the southeastern area of the city. You will find yourself surrounded by monuments that symbolize the former greatness of the Greek colony. The first temples on this land were built in the 5th century BC. e.
Temple of Zeus
Initially, it was planned to build a structure measuring 56 x 112 meters with twenty-meter columns. The temple was to become the largest Doric building of the ancient Greeks. But the storming of the city by the soldiers of Carthage did not allow the construction to be completed, and a strong earthquake practically destroyed what had been built by that time. Today, among the ruins there is an 8-meter sculpture of King Telamon, raising his hands to the sky.
The temple was built in the 11th century. It was seriously damaged by a landslide (1244), but was reconstructed. In the 17th century it was rebuilt in the Baroque style. South side The temple is decorated with double Norman windows, and in the western part of the building there is an episcopal seminary. The steps from the majestic bell tower lead to the main entrance to the cathedral. The three-nave basilica, which was restored after the devastating earthquake of 1966, adorns the interior.
The nave has been preserved, the front part of the structure is made in the Gothic style, the wooden ceiling was decorated in the 17th century.
Sanctuary of Kalogera
A unique structure in Agrigento (Sicily) was built between the 13th and 14th centuries. It is divided into three parts by two colonnades. A rectangular apse with three chapels crowns its center. The altar was made in the 14th century from wood with mother-of-pearl inserts. The building is decorated with gilded multi-colored mosaics, the work of Michele Amico.
Where to stay in Agrigento (Sicily)?
The city can be divided into three districts:
- the historical center, which is located on the top of the hill;
- lower part, at its foot;
- The main street is Via Atenea.
You can choose hotels in Agrigento (Sicily), located in the valley. Their windows offer stunning views of the orange orchards and the Valley of the Temples.
Among the hotels in the historical part of the city, the small but very cozy B&B Bibirria should be highlighted. It offers accommodation in only four rooms. Each of them has a dining room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning and necessary household appliances.
You can pay attention to another hotel in the historical part of the city - B&B Liol, which is located next to the Cathedral. It is also quite small (three apartments) with a shared kitchen with a refrigerator in which snacks are stored. In the morning, the hotel serves a rich and delicious breakfast, which can be delivered to your room.
The lower part of town is where most of the shops, restaurants and bars are located. Several hotels in the area overlook the Valley of the Temples. B&B Portatenea, for example, is located right on the main street (via Atenea), with public parking nearby. Breakfasts at this hotel are served on the terraces.
The B&B Marchese Sala located next door is a real palace that was built in the 18th century. Its terrace and room windows offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Valley of the Temples. The hotel owners organize and conduct excursions.
B&B Villa San Marco is located 500 meters from the temples and is also surrounded by a beautiful garden in which birds chirp merrily. At any time of the day you can cool off in the swimming pool located on the hotel grounds.
Hotel Villa Athena is the most luxurious hotel in Agrigento (Sicily). It is located in a villa built in the 18th century. In 2012, the hotel was recognized as the best on the island. Some of its rooms overlook a wonderful garden, some overlook the Valley of Temples. Each room has its own bathroom, decorated with natural marble, a bedroom and a living room, furnished in a classic style.
What travelers say
Reviews from tourists about Agrigento (Sicily) vary. For the most part, vacationers are satisfied with the trip. They liked the wonderful nature and climate of Sicily. Agrigento attracts with a calm, measured way of life, an excellent opportunity to combine a beach holiday with an excursion.
Some people think that Agrigento in Sicily is suitable for history buffs and ancient architecture. There is little entertainment in the city, so many people go to clubs and discos located in nearby resorts.
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, it became one of the significant and prosperous cities ancient world. At the same time it was built Valley of the Temples, and the city began to be called "the most beautiful city of 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 Christian Church 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.
To the south of the city lies a row of five Greek temples - a spectacle worthy of comparison with the Acropolis itself in Athens. Typically, temples are divided into two zones: the eastern zone and the western zone, on each side of the main entrance and the road from the city center. Sometimes in the summer it becomes unbearably hot, and here a little shade, as well as olive trees along the ridge, saves from this. Entrance costs 8 euros, an additional fee is charged for an audio tour or a simple map (data as of November 2012).
The first temple to the east of the entrance is the Temple of Hercules (Italian: Tempio di Ercole) - long, thin and only a third preserved. This is the oldest of the temples, built around the end of the 6th century BC. e. Of particular interest are the ruts left near it from ancient carts.
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The path continues beyond the small hills on the border of the mountain range - there is the Temple of Juno (Italian: Tempio di Giunone). Partially destroyed, it provides an excellent view of the ridge below leading to other temples.
To the west of the main entrance is the massive Temple of Jupiter (Italian: Tempio di Giove), which was never completed and its structure can now only be seen with great difficulty. The most noticeable is one of the huge stone statues that currently lies on the ground.
Behind it is the small, ruined Temple of the Dioscuri (Italian: Tempio di Dioscure).
Behind the small temple is the small but interesting Tomb of Theron (Italian: Tomba di Terone).
To put everything you see in context, it's worth visiting the Archaeological Museum (located halfway into the city center), as well as the nearby Hellenic-Roman quarter with some beautiful mosaics. VisitAgrigento conducts daily tours of the Valley of the Temples, but an audio tour is available at the entrance to the temples. If you take items, you will be responsible for their safety and will be required to return to the main entrance on your way back to return them.
To reach the Valley of the Temples by public transport, purchase a bus ticket
No. 1, 2 or 3 at the counter on railway station and catch the bus in the square in front of the station.
Church of Santa Maria dei Greci (Italian: Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Greci)
An interesting Norman church, built about a thousand years ago on the site of an ancient Greek temple. The entrance is free.