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Valley of the Temples
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The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of the world's most significant archaeological sites and a testimony to the glorious Greek colonization in Sicily. The ancient city of Akragas was founded in 581 BC and developed into one of the most prosperous centers of Magna Graecia. On a prominent limestone ridge, monumental Doric temples were erected in the 5th century BC, which still impress today with their preservation. The Temple of Concordia is considered one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the world, thanks to its later use as a Christian basilica. Other significant ruins include the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Heracles, and the remains of the gigantic Temple of Olympian Zeus, which was once one of the largest in antiquity. Since 1997, the site has been a UNESCO World Heritage site and today comprises an archaeological park of over 1300 hectares. The excavations provide deep insights into urban planning, sacred architecture, and the social life of the ancient world.
- Location: Italy
- Top sights: The altar of the Temple of Zeus Olympios · Temple of Hercules · Copy of statue of Atlas
- Nearby: Cannatello (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 18 | 14 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 92 | 78 | 72 | 50 | 23 | 19 | 7 | 12 | 53 | 84 | 90 | 88 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
You can explore the vast open-air archaeological park and walk right up to the magnificent, well-preserved Greek temples. While you generally cannot enter the temple interiors themselves to protect the ancient structures, the exterior views and the sheer scale of the site provide an incredibly immersive historical experience.
Typical hours
The site is usually open daily from early morning until the evening, with extended night hours often available during the busy summer months. It is highly advisable to avoid the midday heat and visit either right at opening or later in the afternoon for the most comfortable experience.
Photography
Photography is freely permitted throughout the outdoor park, offering endless opportunities to capture the golden-hued stones against the clear sky. Using a wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the full majesty of the larger temples, especially during the remarkable magical light of golden hour.
Time needed
Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the main path along the ridge where the most prominent temples are located. For a more comprehensive visit including the on-site archaeological museum and the beautiful Kolymbetra Garden, allow a half day to fully appreciate the complex.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Pietro Griffo Regional Archaeological Museum, which houses thousands of artifacts excavated from the surrounding area. You can also easily explore the appealing historic center of Agrigento itself, located just a short distance from the ancient ruins.
Getting there
The park is easily accessible by car with designated parking areas located near the main entrances, though they can fill up quickly in peak season. Alternatively, frequent local buses connect the Agrigento central train station directly to the temple valley, making it very convenient for those utilizing public transportation.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain is extensive, uneven in places, and largely exposed to the sun with minimal shaded areas along the main temple ridge. Bring plenty of water, a good hat, and sunscreen, as the Sicilian sun can be intense even outside of the peak summer season.
Geography
Facts
- UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 on 1,300 hectares
- Akragas was founded in 581 BC by colonists from Gela and Rhodes
- The Temple of Concordia was converted into a church in the 6th century AD
- The Temple of Olympian Zeus was originally over 110 meters long
- The site features seven monumental Doric temple ruins
- In antiquity, an estimated 200,000 people lived in Akragas
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Valley of the Temples (10)
Agora Inferiore
Lower public square of the ancient city, with column remnants.
Tomba di Terone
Historical site in Italy, a Greek-era funerary monument.
Porta V
Ruins of an ancient city gate within the archaeological park.
Kolymbetra
Ancient cistern or pool complex, now a garden area.
Chiesa di San Nicola
Building in Agrigento, a church near the temple zone.
Museo Archeologico Regionale Pietro Griffo🏛 museum
Archaeological museum in Italy, housing finds from Agrigento and region.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Valley of the Temples located?
It is located on the outskirts of the city of Agrigento in Sicily.
Which temple is best preserved?
The Temple of Concordia is one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world.
How much time should be planned for the visit?
At least 3 to 4 hours should be planned to see the large area.
Are there night tours?
Yes, in summer the temples are illuminated and open in the evening.
Is the site accessible?
Most of the main paths are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Valley of the Temples: where is it located?
Valley of the Temples is located in Italy.
Valley of the Temples: what is there to see?
Highlights include The altar of the Temple of Zeus Olympios, Temple of Hercules, Copy of statue of Atlas.
Valley of the Temples: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Valley of the Temples: why is it worth visiting?
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of the world's most significant archaeological sites and a testimony to the glorious Greek colonization in Sicily.
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