The Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento, Sicily, is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Despite its name, the site is situated on a ridge rather than in a valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated in 1997, encompasses approximately 1,300 hectares, making it one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe and the Mediterranean basin
It sits just outside Agrigento on Sicily’s southern coast and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
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| Valley of the Temples Sicily |
Despite being called a “valley,” the temples are actually spread along a high rocky ridge with incredible views over the Mediterranean Sea.
✨ Main Highlights
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Temple of Concordia
➔ The most complete ancient Greek temple anywhere after the Parthenon. Built around 440 BC. Stunning at sunset! -
Temple of Juno (Hera)
➔ Built around 450 BC. Some fire damage during ancient battles, but its tall columns are still standing proud. -
Temple of Heracles (Hercules)
➔ Probably the oldest temple on site. Today, eight massive columns survive. -
Temple of Olympian Zeus
➔ It was meant to be the biggest Doric temple ever built, but it was never completed.
➔ Famous for its giant statues (called "Telamons") — one was reconstructed and raised again in 2024! -
Temple of Castor and Pollux
➔ Only four columns remain, but it’s one of the symbols of Agrigento today. -
Temple of Hephaestus (Vulcan)
➔ Now quite ruined, but it would have been a massive, beautiful structure in ancient times.
📖 Quick History
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Founded in 580 BC by Greek settlers from Gela.
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The city, called Akragas, became one of the richest and most powerful in the ancient world.
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Most temples were built between 510 and 430 BC during Agrigento’s golden age.
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Over centuries, wars, earthquakes, and looting caused damage — but many temples are still stunningly intact.
🎟️ Visitor Information
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Opening Hours:
➔ Open daily from around 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
➔ Summer nights: open until 11:00 PM or midnight with the temples beautifully lit up. -
Tickets:
➔ Standard entry: about €12
➔ Discounts for EU citizens aged 18–25
➔ Children under 18 usually enter free -
Tours:
➔ Audio guides (€5) available.
➔ Guided tours (especially sunset tours!) are highly recommended. -
Best time to visit:
➔ Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and beautiful light.
➔ Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. -
Other tips:
➔ Wear good walking shoes (it’s a big area — over 1,300 hectares!)
➔ Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially in summer.
🌟 Bonus: What’s New?
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In 2024, a reconstructed Atlas statue (over 8 meters tall) was raised again near the Temple of Olympian Zeus after decades of restoration work!
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Future plans include augmented reality experiences to bring the ancient city back to life.
The Valley of the Temples is not just ruins — it’s a journey through the ancient power and beauty of Greek civilization, standing under the Sicilian sun.