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Agrigento Travel Guide

Travel to Agrigento - Greek Temples, Theatres and Ruins

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Located on the southern coast of Sicily, the medieval city of Agrigento sits upon a hilltop overlooking the sea and is renowned as the site of the ancient Greek city of Akragras. The archeological area of the city is located just outside the town and, with its Greek temples, theatres, ruins and museum, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A long way from the main tourist sites of Sicily this charming old city still has a medieval character with steep narrow winding streets, and with its historical significance, is well worth a visit.

Founded around 582 BC and taking the name Akragas, the town was renamed Agrigentum by the Romans, Girgenti by the Saracens, only to be christened Agrigento in 1927 under the government of Mussolini. After suffering a number of destructive bombing raids during the Second World War the city survived to become a major tourist center due to its rich archaeological history as well as an important agricultural centre for the surrounding region.

Attractions in Agrigento

On the south side of the old city lies the Valley of the Temples, a large sacred area where seven monumental Greek temples in the Doric style were constructed during the 6th and 5th centuries BC. Listed as a World Heritage Site they constitute some of the largest and best-preserved ancient Greek buildings outside of Greece itself.

Nearby, the Archeological Museum displays a number of fascinating artifacts and exhibits from the surrounding area. Still displaying some of their medieval character the 14th century Romanesque Gothic cathedral and the 13th century Church of San Nicola can be found in the centre of the old city.

Activities in Agrigento

Spend a day exploring the winding streets of the old city followed by a visit to the Valley of the Temples and the nearby archeological museum.

Relaxing

Take a well earned break at one of the many restaurants and sample the delicious local cuisine.

Getting Around

Walking is the easiest way to explore the city, from the centre it is an easy walk to the Archaeological Park or alternatively catch a bus from the railway station.