Walking tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
Original diary by ZhenyaJane
A walking tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is a captivating journey through ancient history. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located on the southern coast of Sicily, boasts some of the most well-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece.
As you embark on your tour, you are instantly transported back to the 5th century BC, when Agrigento was a thriving Greek colony known as Akragas. The Valley of the Temples is a vast archaeological park that spans approximately 1,300 hectares, featuring seven stunning temples and various other ruins.
The tour begins at the Temple of Hera (Juno), the oldest and most well-preserved structure in the valley. This majestic Doric temple, dedicated to the goddess of marriage and family, stands proudly atop a hill, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. As you walk along the sacred path, you can’t help but marvel at the impressive columns and intricate architectural details that have withstood the test of time.
Continuing your journey, you come across the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. This iconic structure, dedicated to the goddess of harmony, exudes an aura of serenity and elegance. Its sheer size and remarkable state of preservation make it a true masterpiece of ancient architecture.
Next on the tour is the Temple of Heracles, a massive structure that was once the focal point of Akragas. Although only a handful of columns remain standing, it is still possible to appreciate the grandeur and power that this temple once possessed.
As you explore further, you encounter the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a colossal structure that was never fully completed. With its gigantic columns and ambitious design, this temple serves as a reminder of the ambitious dreams of the ancient Greeks.
Other notable sites within the Valley of the Temples include the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Asclepius, and the Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone. Each site holds its own unique history and significance, offering a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient Akragas.
Throughout your walking tour, knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the historical context and architectural features of each temple. They also share stories of the ancient Greek myths and legends that were intertwined with the lives of the people who once inhabited this land.
As the tour comes to an end, you are left in awe of the monumental structures and the rich history that surrounds you. The Valley of.
Here’s a detailed stop-by-stop itinerary for a walking tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Sicily
Temple of Juno
Stop 1: Temple of Juno (Tempio di Giunone).
◍The Temple of Juno, also known as the Tempio di Giunone in Italian, is an ancient Greek temple located in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. The GPS coordinates for the Temple of Juno are approximately 37.2905° N latitude and 13.5842° E longitude.
Description:
The Temple of Juno is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the Valley of the Temples. It is dedicated to the goddess Juno (Hera in Greek mythology), who was the queen of the gods and the wife of Zeus. The temple was built during the 5th century BCE in the Doric architectural style, which was characteristic of ancient Greek temples.
The temple is constructed entirely of local sandstone, which gives it a warm golden hue. It stands on a high podium with six steps and is surrounded by a colonnade of 34 columns. Originally, the temple had 15 columns on each side and 6 columns on the front and back. Today, only 24 columns remain standing, with some of the fallen columns still lying on the ground.
The entrance to the temple is through a monumental staircase located at the front, which leads to the pronaos (the porch-like structure at the front of the temple). The pronaos has two rows of columns and is enclosed by a low wall. Behind the pronaos, there is the cella or naos, which is the main chamber of the temple. Inside the cella, there would have been a cult statue of the goddess Juno.
History:
The Temple of Juno was built during the golden age of the ancient Greek city of Akragas (modern-day Agrigento). It was part of a larger complex of temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses, which formed the religious center of the city. The temples were constructed to display the wealth and power of the city-state.
The exact date of the temple’s construction is uncertain, but it is believed to have been built around 450 BCE. It is attributed to the architect who designed the Temple of Concordia, another prominent temple in the Valley of the Temples. The temple was actively used for worship until the 4th century CE when the city declined and fell under Roman rule.
Throughout history, the Temple of Juno suffered damages from earthquakes, wars, and looting. In the 18th century.
Distance from the beginning: 0. 5 km.
Duration: 30 minutes.
See more photos here
Temple of Concordia
Stop 2: Temple of Concordia (Tempio della Concordia).
◍The Temple of Concordia, also known as Tempio della Concordia in Italian, is an ancient Greek temple located in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. The GPS coordinates for the Temple of Concordia are approximately 37.2902° N latitude and 13.5849° E longitude.
Description:
The Temple of Concordia is considered one of the most well-preserved and impressive Doric temples in the world. It was built during the 5th century BCE and is dedicated to the ancient Greek goddess of harmony and peace, Concordia. The temple is made entirely of local sandstone and stands on a large platform, elevated above the surrounding landscape.
The Temple of Concordia follows the typical Doric architectural style, characterized by its simple, sturdy design. It features a peristyle, which is a surrounding colonnade with six columns on the front and back, and thirteen columns on each side. The columns are fluted and have no bases, giving them a sense of solidity and strength.
The temple has a pronaos (entrance porch) and a cella (inner chamber) with an opisthodomos (rear porch). The eastern side of the temple, facing the sunrise, was considered the main entrance. Inside the cella, there would have been a statue of the goddess Concordia, but it has not survived to this day.
History:
The Temple of Concordia was constructed during the golden age of the city of Akragas, known today as Agrigento. It was one of several temples built to honor the Greek gods and goddesses, and it served as a symbol of the city’s wealth and power.
Over the centuries, the Temple of Concordia underwent various transformations and was even converted into a Christian basilica during the Byzantine period. It was later abandoned and fell into disrepair. However, the temple’s sturdy construction helped it withstand the test of time, and it was eventually restored in the 18th century.
Today, the Temple of Concordia is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction. It stands as a magnificent testament to the ancient Greek civilization and attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Distance from the beginning: 0. 8 km.
Duration: 30 minutes.
See more photos here
Temple of Heracles
Stop 3: Temple of Heracles (Tempio di Ercole).
◍The Temple of Heracles, also known as Tempio di Ercole in Italian, is an ancient temple located in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. The GPS coordinates for the temple are approximately 37.2907° N latitude, 13.5866° E longitude.
Description:
The Temple of Heracles is one of the well-preserved Doric temples in the Valley of the Temples. It was built during the 6th century BC and is believed to be one of the oldest structures in the valley. The temple is constructed using local sandstone and stands on a high base made of three steps.
The temple follows a typical Doric architectural style, characterized by its sturdy and robust appearance. It is peripteral, meaning it is surrounded by a colonnade of columns on all four sides. Originally, it would have had six columns on the front and back, and thirteen columns on each side. Today, only eight columns are still standing, but they provide a glimpse into the temple’s former grandeur.
History:
The Temple of Heracles was dedicated to the Greek hero Heracles (Hercules in Roman mythology) and served as a place of worship. It is believed to have been constructed by the Greeks who colonized the area, specifically the city of Akragas (modern-day Agrigento), during the 6th century BC.
Over the centuries, the temple faced various challenges, including earthquakes and invasions. It was partially destroyed during the Carthaginian siege of Akragas in 406 BC. Despite the damage, the temple remained an important religious site, with evidence of ongoing worship throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
During the Middle Ages, the temple was converted into a Christian church, and later, in the 16th century, it was transformed into a Muslim mosque. This transformation resulted in significant alterations to the original structure.
In the 18th century, the temple was rediscovered and underwent restoration efforts. Today, it stands as one of the remarkable archaeological sites in the Valley of the Temples, along with other ancient Greek temples and ruins.
Visiting the Temple of Heracles: The Temple of Heracles is part of the larger archaeological park known as the Valley of the Temples, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the park and admire the well-preserved temples and other ancient structures.
The.
Distance from the beginning: 1. 2 km.
Duration: 20 minutes.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Stop 4: Temple of Olympian Zeus (Tempio di Giove Olimpico).
◍The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as Tempio di Giove Olimpico in Italian, is an ancient Greek temple located in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. The GPS coordinates for the temple are approximately 37.2914° N, 13.5876° E.
Description:
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Doric-style temples in the world. It was built between 480 and 460 BCE during the reign of the tyrant Theron and his son Thrasydaeus. The temple was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Greek gods.
The temple is constructed entirely of local yellow sandstone and is surrounded by a peristyle of 38 massive Doric columns. Originally, there were 38 columns on the sides and 17 columns on the front and back, but only a few of them remain standing today. Each column is approximately 10 meters tall and has a diameter of about 4 meters. The temple’s dimensions are approximately 112 meters long and 56 meters wide.
History:
The construction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus was part of a larger building project initiated by Theron to demonstrate his power and wealth. This project also included the construction of the nearby Temple of Concordia and other structures in the Valley of the Temples.
The temple remained incomplete even after Theron’s death due to the Carthaginian invasion in 406 BCE. The Carthaginians destroyed much of the city of Akragas (ancient Agrigento), including the temple, during their siege. The ruins remained abandoned for centuries until excavation and restoration efforts began in the 18th century.
Today, visitors can explore the impressive ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in the archaeological park of the Valley of the Temples. The site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists from around the world. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural and cultural achievements of ancient Greece.
Distance from the beginning: 1. 5 km.
Duration: 30 minutes.
Temple of Castor and Pollux
Stop 5: Temple of Castor and Pollux (Tempio dei Dioscuri).
◍The Temple of Castor and Pollux, also known as Tempio dei Dioscuri in Italian, is an ancient Roman temple located in the vicinity of GPS coordinates 37.2916, 13.5887. This temple is situated in the Forum Romanum, the central public square of ancient Rome.
Description:
The Temple of Castor and Pollux is a well-preserved structure that stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman architecture. It is an imposing rectangular building with a frontal colonnade supported by six Corinthian columns. The temple is made of marble and measures approximately 33 meters long and 17 meters wide.
The front of the temple features a prominent staircase leading up to the entrance, which is flanked by the six columns. Above the columns, an entablature and pediment complete the facade. Inside the temple, there was a cella, or inner chamber, where the statues of Castor and Pollux were housed.
History:
The Temple of Castor and Pollux has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. According to legend, the temple was built to commemorate the divine intervention of Castor and Pollux during the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BCE. These twin brothers were believed to have appeared on horseback to aid the Roman army in their victory against the Latin League.
The original temple was built in the 5th century BCE but was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. The current structure largely dates back to the 2nd century CE, during the reign of Emperor Tiberius. It underwent several restorations and modifications during the subsequent centuries.
The Temple of Castor and Pollux held great religious and political significance in ancient Rome. It served as a meeting place for the Senate and was the starting point for important processions and ceremonies. The temple was dedicated to the worship of Castor and Pollux, who were revered as protectors of Rome and patrons of cavalry.
Today, the Temple of Castor and Pollux remains an impressive archaeological site within the Forum Romanum. Visitors can explore the ruins and admire the architectural splendor of this ancient Roman temple.
Distance from the beginning: 1. 7 km.
Duration: 15 minutes.
Temple of Vulcan
Stop 6: Temple of Vulcan (Tempio di Vulcano).
◍The Temple of Vulcan, also known as Tempio di Vulcano in Italian, is an ancient archaeological site located near the GPS coordinates 37.2918, 13.5902. Situated in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy, it is one of the prominent Greek temples in the area.
Description:
The Temple of Vulcan is a Doric-style temple that was dedicated to the Roman god of fire and metalworking, Vulcan (or Hephaestus in Greek mythology). It was constructed during the 5th century BCE, making it one of the oldest temples in the Valley of the Temples.
The temple follows a peripteral design, featuring a rectangular floor plan with a colonnade of Doric columns surrounding the sanctuary. Unfortunately, only a few ruins of the temple remain today, including some of the columns, the stylobate (platform), and the foundations.
History:
The Temple of Vulcan was likely built during the same period as the other temples in the Valley of the Temples. Agrigento, known as Akragas in ancient times, was a prosperous Greek colony and one of the most important cities in Magna Graecia (Greater Greece).
The temple was part of a larger religious complex dedicated to Vulcan, which also included an altar and other structures. It served as a place of worship and rituals, where the ancient Greeks would pay homage to the god and seek his favor for their metallurgical endeavors.
Over the centuries, the Temple of Vulcan, like many other ancient structures, suffered from natural disasters, wars, and neglect. The site fell into ruins, and much of the original temple was dismantled and reused for other construction projects.
In the 18th century, archaeological excavations began in the Valley of the Temples, and the remains of the Temple of Vulcan were uncovered. Efforts were made to preserve and restore the surviving elements of the temple, though it remains in a fragmentary state.
Today, the Temple of Vulcan, along with the other temples in the Valley of the Temples, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire the historical significance and architectural beauty of these ancient Greek temples.
Distance from the beginning: 2. 0 km.
Duration: 20 minutes.
Temple of Asclepius
Stop 7: Temple of Asclepius (Tempio di Asclepio).
◍The Temple of Asclepius, also known as the Tempio di Asclepio in Italian, is an ancient Greek temple located near the GPS coordinates 37.2908° N latitude and 13.5912° E longitude. The temple is situated in the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy.
Description:
The Temple of Asclepius is a Doric-style temple dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. The temple was constructed during the Hellenistic period, between the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. While the temple is not as well-preserved as some of the other temples in the Valley of the Temples, its remains provide insight into its original grandeur.
The temple was built on a raised platform and originally featured a peristyle, a row of columns surrounding the temple. The temple’s facade had six columns on the short sides and fourteen columns on the long sides, creating a rectangular shape. The columns were made of local sandstone and had fluted shafts. The temple’s roof was likely made of terracotta tiles, although only fragments remain today.
History:
The Temple of Asclepius was part of the larger ancient Greek city of Akragas, which later became Agrigentum under Roman rule. Asclepius was highly revered in ancient Greek and Roman cultures as the god of healing, and temples dedicated to him were places where people sought cures for various ailments.
Akragas was a prosperous city known for its wealth, cultural achievements, and architectural marvels. The Temple of Asclepius was one of several temples constructed in the Valley of the Temples, which was a sacred area where various temples and sanctuaries were situated.
Over time, the city of Akragas faced numerous invasions and changes in power. In the 6th century CE, the temple was converted into a Christian church during the Byzantine period. During the Arab rule in the 9th century, the temple was further transformed into a mosque.
Throughout history, the Temple of Asclepius suffered damage from earthquakes and looting. In the 18th century, much of the temple’s materials were used for construction in nearby Agrigento. Today, only a few columns and fragments of the temple remain, as well as some reconstructed sections.
The Valley of the Temples, including the Temple
Distance from the beginning: 2. 3 km.
Duration: 15 minutes.
Garden of Kolymbetra
Stop 8: Garden of Kolymbetra (Giardino della Kolymbetra).
◍The Garden of Kolymbetra, also known as Giardino della Kolymbetra, is a historic garden located in the vicinity of GPS location 37.2924, 13.5918. It is situated within the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, near Agrigento in Sicily, Italy.
Description:
The Garden of Kolymbetra is a lush oasis nestled within a rocky landscape. It covers an area of approximately 5 hectares and is surrounded by ancient Greek ruins and archaeological sites. The garden is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in managing and utilizing water resources in arid regions.
The garden is characterized by a series of terraced slopes, connected by stone steps and pathways. It is filled with a rich variety of Mediterranean vegetation, including citrus trees, pomegranates, figs, olives, and various aromatic plants. The garden also features a large central pool, known as a kolymbos, which was used for swimming and recreation in ancient times.
History:
The Garden of Kolymbetra has a long and fascinating history. It was originally created by the ancient Greeks in the 5th century BC as part of the larger city of Akragas, which later became Agrigento. The Greeks developed a sophisticated irrigation system using aqueducts and underground channels to bring water from nearby springs to the garden, enabling the cultivation of various crops and plants.
During the Roman period, the garden underwent further development and expansion. The Romans added new features, such as ornamental ponds, fountains, and statues, transforming the garden into a luxurious retreat. They also introduced new plant species from different parts of the empire, enhancing the garden’s botanical diversity.
Over the centuries, the garden fell into neglect and was eventually abandoned. It was rediscovered and restored in the 1990s as part of a project to revitalize the Valley of the Temples. The restoration work involved clearing overgrown vegetation, repairing the irrigation system, and reintroducing traditional agricultural practices.
Today, the Garden of Kolymbetra serves as a living museum, showcasing the agricultural techniques and plant species of the ancient Mediterranean world. It is open to visitors who can explore the garden’s pathways, admire the ruins, and learn about the history and cultural significance of this unique place.
Distance from the beginning: 2. 5 km.
Duration: 30 minutes.
Temple of Hephaestus
Stop 9: Temple of Hephaestus (Tempio di Efesto).
◍The Temple of Hephaestus, also known as the Hephaisteion or Tempio di Efesto, is an ancient Greek temple located in Athens, Greece. It is situated on the hill of Agoraios Kolonos, which is part of the larger archaeological site known as the Ancient Agora of Athens. The GPS coordinates for the Temple of Hephaestus are approximately 37.9723° N latitude and 23.7218° E longitude.
Description:
The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. It was built between 449 and 415 BCE during the Golden Age of Athens. The temple is dedicated to Hephaestus, the Greek god of blacksmiths, craftsmen, and metallurgy, and Athena Ergane, the goddess of pottery and crafts.
The temple follows the Doric order of architecture and was designed by the renowned architect Ictinus. It is constructed entirely of marble and features a peristyle plan with a pronaos (porch) and an opisthodomos (rear porch). The exterior of the temple is adorned with intricate friezes depicting various mythological scenes and events.
The Temple of Hephaestus stands on a high platform and is surrounded by a colonnade of 34 Doric columns. The friezes on the exterior walls illustrate the Labors of Hercules, the Battle of Theseus and the Centaurs, and the Battle of the Giants. These intricate reliefs showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of the time and provide valuable insight into Greek mythology and legends.
History:
The Temple of Hephaestus was originally built as a place of worship and dedication to Hephaestus. However, it was also used for various other functions throughout history. During the Byzantine period, it was converted into a Christian church dedicated to Saint George. In the 13th century, it was transformed into a Catholic church under the Latin Empire.
Over time, the temple suffered damage due to earthquakes and invasions. In the 19th century, restoration work was undertaken to preserve and reconstruct the temple. The Temple of Hephaestus has since been recognized as an important historical and archaeological site and is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Historic Centre of Athens.
Today, the Temple of Hephaestus is a popular tourist attraction and a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Greece. Visitors can explore the temple’s interior.
Distance from the beginning: 2. 8 km.
Duration: 15 minutes.
