Walls of Timoleon

The Walls of Timoleon are ancient fortifications in Gela extending roughly 400 meters along the southern edge of the historical settlement. They demonstrate advanced Greek military construction techniques and form part of a larger defensive system that includes numerous underground water storage tanks.

These fortifications were built in 338 BC under Timoleon's direction following Carthaginian destruction of the city. They marked a key moment in the settlement's reconstruction and served as its defensive framework during recovery.

The fortifications display local building methods using sun-dried clay bricks in their upper sections. This construction approach shows how Greek builders adapted to available regional materials and techniques.

You can explore the fortifications on foot and examine the defensive structures up close. Wear comfortable shoes and expect uneven ground, as this is an archaeological site where pathways may be rough or steep in places.

The fortification is surrounded by roughly 36 Hellenistic underground water tanks that were part of a thoughtful water supply system. These reservoirs reveal how Greeks integrated practical engineering solutions into their urban planning.