Valley of the Temples: an archaeological wonder of the world | Knowledge News

One of the largest archaeological sites in the world, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is a dreamlike wonder. Read more about this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Photo credit: Getty Images)

New Delhi: Founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century BC, Agrigento was one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean world. Its supremacy and pride are demonstrated by the remains of the beautiful Doric temples that dominate the ancient city, much of which still lies intact beneath today’s fields and orchards. Some selected excavated areas highlight the later Hellenistic and Roman city and the burial practices of its early Christian inhabitants. The place in Agrigento is called Valley of the Temple or Valle dei Templi, a name with a rich history and cultural significance. Let’s delve deeper into his story.

Valle dei Templi or Valley of the Temples

The Valle dei Templi, or Valley of the Temples, is an archaeological site in Agrigento, Sicily. This site is a testament to the greatness of Greek art and is considered one of the most remarkable examples of it. The main attraction here is Magna Gracecia. Despite its name, the valley is not a valley, but rather a spot on a ridge outside the city of Agrigento. Since 1997, the entire area has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Valley of the Temples is not just an archaeological site, but a vast landscape park of 1,300 hectares, making it the largest archaeological park in Europe and the Mediterranean.

The 7 Temples

The valley has remains of seven temples and all are in Doric style. The temples are:

Temple of Concordia

The temple was built in the 5th century BC and was later converted into a church in the 6th AD. The name is derived from a Latin inscription found nearby. It is one of the seven temples and is now one of the best preserved temples in the valley.

Temple of Hera

Built in the 5th century BC, the Carthaginians burned the temple in 406 BC. It is located at the easternmost end of the ridge on a large artificial terrace. The temple is in Doric style and the base has four steps.

Temple of Heracles

An earthquake destroyed the most revered gods in ancient Akragas. The temple only has eight columns.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Built in 480 BC, the temple celebrated the city-state’s victory over Carthage and features large-scale atlases.

Temple of Castor and Pollux

With only four columns left, it is now considered the symbol of modern Agrigento.

Temple of Hephaestus (Vulcan)

The temple site of Hephaestus (Vulcan) dates back to the 5th century BC and is considered one of the most imposing structures in the valley. However, it is now one of the most eroded, a testament to the passage of time and the forces of nature. While this state of erosion may detract from the temple’s original grandeur, it adds to its historical significance and the sense of awe it inspires.

Temple of Asclepius

The temple was located far from the old city walls and was the destination of pilgrims seeking healing from diseases.

The Valley of the Temples is home to the seven temples and is also home to the Tomb of Theron, a large tuff monument in a pyramid shape. According to scholars, this tomb was built to commemorate the Romans who died in the Second Punic War, an important event in the history of Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples. The tomb’s unique design and historical context contribute to the richness of the site’s offering.

Other remains of the Valley of the Temples

Other remains

The main feature of the western zone is the crumbled ruin of Tempio di Giove, which covers an area of ​​112 by 56 meters with columns 20 meters high. This would have been the largest Doric temple ever built if its construction had not been interrupted by the sack of Akragas by the Carthaginians. An earthquake later destroyed the incomplete temple.