Selinunte Travel Guide
Discover the Temple of Hera
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Located on the south coast of Sicily in the province of Trapani, Selinunte is an outstanding ancient-Greek city with ruins of an acropolis and five temples. Its tranquil and scenic setting gives a realistic impression of what an ancient Greek city was really like. It is expansive and impressive, with excellent views over the coastline beyond. Of the five temples, only the "Temple of Hera" has been re-erected. The actual city of Selinunte is the acropolis which is built on high ground with views across the sea and it is estimated that 25,000 people lived here during its heyday. Parts of the walls surrounding the acropolis are original but most were reconstructed by archaeologists in 1927.
The city was founded between 650 and 630 BC and its glorious heyday lasted for a period of about two centuries, being one of the most progressive and important Greek cities in Sicily due to its trade, richness and impressive buildings. However this all changed when the city became involved in a war between Syracuse and Athens in 409 BC: the Athenians were never able to capture Syracuse, and were eventually forced to leave Sicily and without protection from their allies, Agrigento and Syracuse, the Carthaginians took the opportunity to seize Selinunte and massacre nearly all of its population. They ruled the city until 250 BC when a Roman invasion forced them to flee but before doing so they destroyed the city to avoid it falling into Roman hands and there its ruins remain.
Attractions in Selinunte
The whole site, in particular the acropolis and the Temple of Hera, situated in a tranquil and scenic setting.
Activities in Selinunte
A day could easily be spent exploring the ruins and the nearby village.
Relaxing
Enjoy a snack is one of the local bars in front of the harbour in the village, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views.
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