Agrigento — The Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) near Agrigento is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world — and the most emotional place to grasp the grandeur of Greek colonization in the western Mediterranean. On a ridge above the southern coast, seven Doric temples from the 5th century BC line up, surrounded by ancient olive trees and almond plantations, with the sea on the horizon. At sunset, when the limestone glows golden and the temples stand out against the evening sky, this is one of the most moving places of the ancient world.

The Temple of Concordia is the highlight: One of the best-preserved Greek temples ever — fully intact with all 34 columns, the pediment, and the roof. Its state of preservation is due to its conversion into a Christian church in the 6th century. The Temple of Juno (Hera/Juno Temple) at the eastern end of the ridge offers the best sunset view. The Temple of Heracles is the oldest (around 500 BC) — only eight columns remain, but the atmosphere is magical. The Temple of Olympian Zeus was the largest Doric temple ever planned (113 × 56 m) — never completed and now a ruin, but the fallen telamons (8-meter-high Atlas figures) give an idea of the gigantic ambition.

The ancient city of Akragas (Greek) was in the 5th century BC one of the largest and richest cities of the Greek world — the poet Pindar called it "the most beautiful city of mortals." Up to 200,000 people lived here, more than today (about 55,000). The Museo Archeologico Regionale complements the visit with excellent finds, including the reconstructed telamons and a unique collection of Greek vases.

In February and March, the Valley of the Temples transforms into a sea of blossoms: The almond trees bloom in white and pink between the ancient columns — the Almond Blossom Festival (Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore) in February is a colorful folk festival with folklore, music, and costumes from around the world.