Valle dei Templi, Archaeological park in Agrigento, Italy.
This archaeological park spans 1,300 hectares and contains eight ancient Greek temples constructed between 510 and 430 BC along a limestone ridge. The site displays preserved Doric columns, foundations and remnants of city walls. Olive groves and almond trees grow between the ancient ruins across the elevated terrain.
Greek colonists founded the city of Akragas in 580 BC and built several temples during the following decades. Carthaginian forces captured and damaged the site in 406 BC. Romans took control of the city in 210 BC and renamed it Agrigentum. Earthquakes and Christian repurposing altered many structures over the centuries.
These temples served as religious centers where Greek colonists worshiped their patron deities. The name Valley of the Temples emerged during the 18th century, though the sanctuaries stand on a ridge rather than in an actual valley. The archaeological park now draws over one million visitors annually from around the world.
The park opens daily at 8:30 AM with adult tickets priced at 12 euros, while reduced rates apply for European Union citizens under 25. Shuttle buses operate between major temple areas. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer relief from midday heat. Sturdy footwear is recommended for the uneven terrain.
Construction of the Temple of Zeus stretched across 112 meters (367 feet) and incorporated massive stone figures called telamons as structural supports reaching 7.5 meters (25 feet) in height. One of these colossal figures now lies reconstructed on the park grounds. Akragas ranked among the wealthiest Greek cities in the Mediterranean during the 5th century BC.
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