Valley of the Temples

Information About Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Temples) is a renowned archeological site located in Agrigento which is home to some of the most preserved Ancient Greek ruins in the world, excluding Greece.

More of a ridge rather than a valley the Valley of the Temples most often consists of the stunning ruins of nine ancient temples of the sacred. Beyond the temples in it is also the Valley of the Temples boasts several other sites of archaeological significance that include The 1st century AD Tomb of Theron as well as several sanctuaries that are the oldest. The first was constructed around The 6th Century BC.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 The Valley of the Temples also has a museum on the site that visitors can visit.

Valley of Temples history. Temples time

Most of the temples in the Valley of the Temples were first constructed during the fifth century BC. But, after being destroyed by the Carthaginians in the year 406 BC and later by the Christians during the sixth century of AD The temples have been partially rebuilt.

The project of excavation and restoration was in large part because of the archaeologist Domenico Antonio Lo Faso Pietrasanta who was who was the Duke of Serradifalco between 1809 and 1812.

Valley of the Temples today

Visitors today can take a long time to wander back to the past by exploring this Valley of the Temples. The oldest temple is that of the Temple of Herakles, was built around the time of the 6th century BC and was dedicated to one of the early Greeks revered gods: Hercules. The Temple is thought to be an early one constructed by the region's Greek ruler, Theron. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake. all that is left of the Temple of Herakles were 8 Doric columns.

The most preserved of the ruins is those of the fifth century BC Temple from Concorde that was preserved from destruction after it was included in an earlier Christian church. The gaps between the columns were filled and the altar of pagan worship was destroyed. People with a keen eye can be able to spot heads of Medusa at the rear of Icarus the wing that is near the temple. an unintentional remnant of the pagan time.

These temples also honor Juno, Olympian Zeus (in celebration of the Greek victory over Carthage) Hephaistos, Hera Lacinia, and Castor along with Pollux. It is the Temple for Castor and Pollux even though it is only made up of four columns, was the symbol of modern day Agrigento after it was rebuilt at the turn of the century by combining pieces of other temples.

The Valley of the Temples is also the site of The Tomb of Theron It is which is a massive monument in the shape of a pyramid made of volcanic rock. The tomb is believed to be a memorial to Romans who were killed in The Second Punic War.

Numerous informative boards are scattered on the pathways to give you more details about the area. Remember to bring plenty of water to drink and a hat to visit during the hot Mediterranean summer.