Agrigento Valley is a city that is steeped in history and rich in culture. This charming city on the southern coast of Sicily is heavily influenced by Greek, Roman, and Norman architecture. It boasts of several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Valle dei Templi or Valley of the Temples, which is an extensive area of Greek ruins, including the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Juno and the Temple of Zeus.
Valle di Templi in a Nutshell
Getting There
92100 Agrigento, Free municipal consortium of Agrigento
Sicily - Italy
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Opening Hours
The site is open daily from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm (last entry at 6:00 pm).
Why is Valle di Templi worth visiting?
- See the stunning remains of Greek temples and explore the rich history of the area.
- The valley offers breathtaking views of the Sicilian landscape, with lush greenery and rolling hills.
- Marvel at the impressive architecture of the temples, including the well-preserved Temple of Concordia.
- Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture and learn about the ancient Greek civilization that once inhabited the area.
- Catch the incredible sunset over the valley, as the orange hue illuminates the temples and lights up the sky.
Recommended Valle di Templi Tickets
Depending on the kind of experience you seek and time in hand, you can choose from a variety of Valle di Templi tickets.
The Valle di Templi History
The Valle di Templi, located in the city of Agrigento Valley, Italy, is an archaeological site with a rich and fascinating history. It was an important urban center during the ancient Greek and Roman periods, serving as a political hub and a cultural centre.
The Valley features a collection of seven well-preserved Greek temples, including the Temple of Concord, Temple of Juno, and the Temple of Hercules. These temples were built during the 5th century BCE and were dedicated to different ancient gods. They represent some of the best-preserved ancient Greek architecture in the world.
The site has witnessed significant events throughout history, including the Carthaginian invasion of Sicily in 406 BCE, the defeat of the Romans by the Carthaginians in 262 BCE, and the Arab invasions in the 9th century CE.
Valle di Templi Architecture
Valle di Templi, located in the city of Agrigento Valley, is a masterpiece of Greek architecture. Built during the 5th century BC, Valle di Templi served as a religious and civic center for the ancient Greek city of Akragas. The structures are a testament to the power and prosperity of the ancient civilization.
The architecture is characterized by impressive Doric style columns, which are ubiquitous throughout the site and create an imposing visual effect. The grandeur of the temples can be attributed to the high level of craftsmanship involved in their construction and the usage of local materials such as limestone.
Valle di Templi was designed to refine the art and culture of Ancient Greece with influences from the Doric and Ionic architectural styles. Notable architects of the time, including the likes of Iktinos and Kallikrates, contributed to the design of the temples.
Highlights of Valle di Templi in Agrigento Valley
1Ancient Greek Ruins
Valle di Templi is a captivating archaeological site that transports visitors back in time to the ancient Greek era. Spread across the picturesque landscape, you'll encounter the awe-inspiring ruins of temples, sanctuaries, and other structures that stand as testaments to the rich history of the region.
2Temple of Concordia
Prepare to be amazed by the grandeur of the Temple of Concordia, one of Valle di Templi's most extraordinary structures. This temple showcases the mastery of Doric-style ancient Greek architecture and is renowned for its remarkably preserved columns and intricate details.
3Temple of Juno
Immerse yourself in the captivating history and mythology of the Temple of Juno, an architectural marvel dedicated to the revered Roman goddess. As you explore its sacred grounds, you'll gain insights into the cultural significance and religious practices of the ancient inhabitants of Valle di Templi.
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4Temple of Olympian Zeus
Prepare to be awe-struck by the sheer magnitude of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Commissioned by the influential tyrant Theron in the fifth century BC, this monumental structure remains one of the largest ancient Greek edifices ever constructed. Marvel at its colossal remains and contemplate the power and ambition of its creators.
5Historical Museum
In addition to the captivating ruins, Valle di Templi features a remarkable historical museum. Here, you can delve deeper into the fascinating narratives of the site, unraveling its significance and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the lives and cultures that flourished within its ancient walls. Immerse yourself in the artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.
Best Time to Visit Valle di Templi
The best time to visit this stunning site is in the spring and fall seasons. The weather is warm and pleasant without being too hot or humid, making it ideal for exploring the impressive temples. Moreover, the crowds are much smaller during these months as compared to the peak summer season, allowing you to fully savour the charm and tranquillity of Valle di Templi. We recommend visiting early in the morning or during the late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for capturing Insta-worthy shots of the ancient ruins.
Valle di Templi Opening Hours
- General Timings : Open daily from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm (April to September) and 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (October to March).
- Last Admission: Last entry is one hour before closing time.
- Closed: Closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Getting There
Bus
Hop on to the bus from Agrigento's central bus station and take the Line 2 or Line 1 bus which will take you to Valle di Templi. The journey takes around 15 minutes and the fare is quite affordable.
Train
You can also avail of the train service from Agrigento Centrale Station which is 3 kilometers away from Valle di Templi. Take the train to Porto Empedocle and then walk, take a bus or taxi to get to Valle di Templi.
Taxi
If you prefer convenience and comfort, you can always opt to take a taxi from Agrigento Valley directly to Valle di Templi. Expect to pay a bit more but the convenience is worth the extra expense.
Insider Tips to Visit Valle di Templi
- Get there early to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes as this is a large archaeological site with lots of walking.
- Book a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the site.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as the sun can be intense, especially in the summer months.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the site.
- Bring cash as there are limited ATMs and credit card acceptance can be spotty.
Restaurants Near Valle di Templi
Located just a short walk from Valle di Templi, Trattoria dei Templi offers traditional Sicilian cuisine with fresh ingredients from local farmers. Their seafood dishes are a must-try, especially the grilled octopus and spaghetti alle vongole.
Distance: 0.1 miles.
This cozy corner restaurant presents an array of delicious Mediterranean dishes with a twist. They use fresh herbs and spices, including saffron, for a unique taste. The catch of the day is always a popular choice, as is their homemade tiramisu for dessert.
Distance: 0.2 miles.
Recognized for its excellent customer service and stunning views of the Temple of Concordia, Locanda dei Templi is a great place to grab a bite to eat with friends or family. Their house speciality is the veal cheeks, slow-cooked in red wine and served with creamy polenta.
Distance: 0.3 miles.
For a rustic dining experience, this casual tavern is a great choice. Their menu changes daily, but the dishes are constantly delicious. From spaghetti with clams to roasted lamb chops, visitors are always in for a treat.
Distance: 0.4 miles.
This charming eatery offers a delightful blend of international cuisine with traditional Sicilian flavors. The tuna tartare, coated with a balsamic glaze, is a popular starter. For the main, try the chicken in Barolo wine sauce.
Distance: 0.5 miles.
Places to Stay Near Valle di Templi
Things to Do Near Valle di Templi
Located just 11 km from Valle di Templi, Scala dei Turchi is a natural wonder featuring unique rocky cliffs and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. A perfect place for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Less than 5km from Valle di Templi, Agrigento's Old Town is a charming destination home to ancient architecture, traditional shops and eateries. It’s a must for history buffs, foodies and culture seekers.
Situated just 8km from Valle di Templi, San Leone Beach offers travellers a great opportunity to relax, sunbathe and swim surrounded by stunning scenery.
Being Valle di Templi a part of the Valley of the Temples it can’t be missed. Explore the ancient Greek ruins of temples and archaeological sites. The area is located just 1 km northwest of the centre of Agrigento.
Located a short walk from the Valley of the Temples, the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento exhibits ancient artefacts and archaeological finds from the Valley of the Temples and other sites in the region.
FAQs
Valle di Templi is an ancient Greek archaeological site in Agrigento.
8:30 am-7 pm in summer, and 9 am-3:30 pm in winter.
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Comfortable shoes, light clothing, hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
No, it's not allowed, but there are food stands and a restaurant outside.
€10 for adults, €5 for students, and free for children under 18.
Garden of Kolymbetra, Casa Natale di Luigi Pirandello, and Scala dei Turchi.
