Morgantina, Archaeological site in Aidone, Italy.
Morgantina is an excavated ancient settlement in Sicily spanning two hills, with a Greek theater, temples, residential quarters, and a central marketplace distributed across different levels. The uncovered remains reveal street layouts, house arrangements, and public buildings as they stood roughly 2000 years ago.
The territory was originally inhabited by the Morgetes people, but later developed into a significant Greek city under Syracusan control during the Hellenistic period. The settlement flourished through trade and was eventually abandoned after Rome conquered the region.
The site was dedicated to the worship of Demeter, evident from numerous statuettes and offerings discovered in homes and sanctuaries throughout the excavation. These religious objects reveal how deeply this goddess's veneration shaped the daily spiritual life of residents.
The site is sprawling and requires roughly two to three hours to explore all areas, with some paths crossing uneven terrain. It helps to wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially on sunny days, as shade is limited throughout.
Thousands of coins minted between the 5th and 2nd centuries BCE were discovered scattered across the city, documenting trade routes and political alliances. These finds also reveal how long the city remained economically active.
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