Valley of the Temples (Agrigento)

Agrigento is situated on Sicily’s southern coast. The town is most famous as the location of the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest legacies of ancient Greece. This parade of well-preserved Doric temples, situated just outside the town, dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries BC and is what remains of the Greek city of Akragas.

A visit to the Valley allows you to take a step back to ancient Greece and enjoy the remains of elegant noble villas and the ancient roads of the Hellenistic-Roman District. The temples are spread along a rocky ridge a short way to the south of Agrigento’s medieval town center. Of particular interest are the seven sacred places within the Valley, known from their ruins and remnants. One of these is the fantastic Temple of Hera, with its rectangular plan and recognizable ancient Greek columns. You can also discover the Temple of Concordia, which is still in a state of perfect preservation, as well as the Temple of Castor and Pollux. The temples assume a golden color in the sunset to create a surreal landscape throughout the Valley that is mesmerizing and thought-provoking.

The Valley of the Temples is a designated archaeological park and you can walk there or catch a bus from the railway station. As a part of our tailored travel service, we can arrange a transfer to the site, as well as a VIP tour with a guide.

While it cannot be denied that the Valley of the Temples is Agrigento’s most popular attraction, the town itself boasts an array of intriguing cultural treasures. Indeed, contemporary Agrigento has a glorious Norman Cathedral and imposing bell tower, and Agrigento’s main street, Via Atenea, begins with Porta di Ponte, a 14th-century reconstruction of the original Medieval entrance. With such a diverse selection of architecture to enjoy, Agrigento appeals to those looking for a cultural vacation in the sun.

Include this location among many others in your very own tailor-made itinerary with Classic Sicily. Inquire with us for a free personalized quote.