Agrigento – a Spectacular Sight to See
Whether you choose the scenic coastal route or the charming hills filled with Mediterranean greenery and ancient trees, the drive to Agrigento is lovely. I must say, you’re in for a real treat! The temples overlook the sea, and seeing them in the distance is enticing. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th Century, Agrigento was an important and large city in it’s day. The ruins are located in the old city of Akragas and the vast archeological ruins and sites show the importance of this once spectacular city. Some describe Agrigento as the Parthenon (Athens, Greece) of Magna Graecia which stands for ‘Greater Greece,’ a name given to areas of Southern Italy that were once inhabited by the ancient Greeks. It is known today as the Valley of the Temples. Once you arrive to the area, you’ll see the breathtaking Temples from a distance. The Ticket Booth is just off Via Panoramica Valle Dei Templi aka: SP4. Parking is around but not always obvious.
The Wines and Grapes of the Region
The region of Agrigento is a hidden gem for wine lovers! It is known for its rich vineyards, where you can find a delightful variety of wines all made from indigenous grapes like Nero d’Avola, Grillo, and Catarratto. Enjoy the flavors and tastings at many of the wine bars and restaurants of the regions. You’ll find some in the “Nitty Gritty’ section.
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Has Anyone Seen My Toga?
After paying for your ticket at the booth you’ll proceed up a nicely paved road to a the first of your magnificent views. Cameras ready! I wish I could don a Toga, a wreath of olive branches, and a Greek water vessel for my tour. (Couldn’t you see me like that?) Behold! The Temple of Hera (The Temple of Hera Lacinia). Pretty damn spectacular isn’t it?? Somebody pinch you – you made it! Walk around and take it all in. But.. you’ve only just begun.
Brava – Next Stop is Temple Condordia!
The vendor caves line the path to the temples. Imagine stopping for a cup of wine or some grilled meat and vegetables. Ancient citizens of these towns and cities would often go down to an eating establishment since they might not have cooking facilities in their homes.
On the path you pass the Doric bar (Caffetteria Arcosoli Bluecoop), a great snack bar. After an espresso head to Tempio della Condordia. This is the crème de la crème – the creamy Greek Yogurt – of Greek Temples. It sits magnificently proud with an impressive bronze statue of a broken Icarius by the Polish artist Igor Mitoraj. I dig it.
Temple Hercules is Next..
Wander and Enjoy
From there you wander down ancient paths through ruins, and partially intact city buildings. the area is famous for it’s olive and almond trees. If you take a closer look you’ll see ancient olive trees that date back nearly 500 years! Wander long enough and you’ll come across the Villa Aurea, a home build by a British Archeologist.
Last Stop - The Temple of Zeus
In the park after the main temples, you’ll find a path that crosses the road SP4 (it cuts through the park). On the other side you’ll find the Temple Zeus. It’s not much of a temple anymore but still impressive!
The Archaeological Museum “Pietro Griffo” highlights what has been recovered at is just up SP4 (entrance road) heading into the town of Agrigento. After all the walking this Thirsty Explorer needs a Cold One!
~The Nitty Gritty
🍺 THIRSTY STOPS:
- Inside the Velley of the Temples area is the Doric Bar and Caffeteria.
- Just up the main road is Bonamarone Cafe – a bar tabac
- Enotec Corona – is a wine Bar!
- Enoteca NZolia – wine bar with sprits
🏰BEST SITES IN THE AREA:
- First Stop! Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples)
- The Temple Museum – Archaeological Museum ‘Pietro Griffo’
- Agrigento’s Cathedral – Basilica Cattedrale di San Gerlando
- Agrigento’s Botanical Garden – ‘Teatro Efebo’
- Agrigento’s cemetery – ‘Cimitero’ just up the hill.
🍴 FOOD FINDS:
- Pizzeria Ristorante Still Life 2.0 – with a beautiful view!
- Near the Temples is Trattoria dei Templi Ristorante – seafood and pasta
- In town neastled near the Cathedral is Expanifico Osteria
🚗 GETTING THERE:
- By car – The ticket office is off Via Panoramica Velle Dei Templi aka: SP4. Parking is a bit scattered, there are lots at the top and bottom of the main road to the entrance.
- By Train – Agrigento Centrale is a beautiful and clean station that is just a 30 minute walk!
✈️ DESTINATION PREP:
- Trip Planning Sheets! Use my Planning Sheets – The PREFLIGHT PLANNER for a travel checklist and city-to-city planning. The DAILY PLANNER for daily city site and museum planning. I USE THEM!
- FOR TRAVEL OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES: The US State Department Travel Site – ALL trips begin with safety in mind! This site is helpful to EVERYONE WORLDWIDE! I begin by looking at this site for all the latest Worldwide Country Info – Passports, Visa requirements, Travel Advisories
- Enroll in the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) – Enrolling lets the State Department know where you are in an emergency and can help you home if needed.
