Agrigento (Agrigento), Sicily. Beaches of Sicily

Agrigento - A city with undisputed charm, storing archaeological monuments of unforgettable beauty and memories of the peoples who captured his name in the centuries.

Akragas for the Greeks, Agrigent for Romans, Kerkent Gerson for Arabs and Girgenti for Normannov: The name of Agrigento was officially assigned to the city during the fascist occupation, due to the incorrect pronunciation of the Latin name "in Italian".

Agrigento Located on the top of the hill, in the very place that Arabs elected, fully rebuilt the city after its conquest and total ruin. The historical evidence of the pristine Akragas and Greek domination remain only in the valley of the temples, located at the very foundation of this hill.

The panorama that Agrigento offers, of course, will pass away everyone: immediate proximity to the sea, a hilly landscape with an infinite set of olive, orange and almond trees and colors, paved by a paving alley and small inner courtyards that form the city center. All this has a mysterious charm, which sharply increases in pre-orders.

Panorama on the Temple of Juno. Photo Flickr.com.

Agrigento, no doubt, a city that will not leave the visitor disappointed, because here it is simply impossible to bother. Churches, Palaces, Museums, Archaeological Monuments, Fountains, Squares and Streets: In this city, located in the south-west of Sicily, many places of historical, artistic and archaeological heritage of various cultures and peoples have been preserved.

It should be noted that in the province of Agrigento, one of the leading writers of Italy, Luigi Pilandello, Laureate of the Nobel Prize of 1934

Brief History Agrigento

Founded in 581 BC. Greek migrants from Rhodes and Crete, Akragas quickly became one of the most important cities of ancient Greece, the second most important greek colonia on after.

The urban area of \u200b\u200bGreek Akragas numbered 456 hectares and was surrounded by the fortress walls with a nine goal. The population of the city was about 300,000 inhabitants, and Akragas himself was heard among Greek poets "the most beautiful city mortals. "The city reached his heyday in the fifth century BC, under the rule of Tirana Theron, which expanded his possessions to northern coast Sicily. During this period, art and culture in Akragas flourished: the temple of Zeus was built and most of the temples, which can be observed in the Valley of the Temples.

The remains of the temple of Zeus in the Valley of the temples of Agrigento. Photo Flickr.com.

In 210 BC The city was conquered by the Romans and is attached to, but in the next century Agrigento, even under the rule of Rome, survived the invasion of Arabs. The conquerors destroyed the city almost completely, and then founded the settlement on the top of the hill, where today you can admire history Center Typically Arabic, with small alleys and courtyards, which converge on Via Athena, continuing to stay to this day the most important "artery" of the city.

Via Athena Street crosses the entire historical center of Agrigento and keeps a lot of beautiful palaces and churches that are sometimes completely different from each other by architectural style. Treasures are stored in the temples and churches of the city, often unknown to the general public, for example, you can see numerous works of Cherry and Gagini. In the heart of the Old Town, as many centuries ago, small private taverns are open, where the anchovies and Sicilian olives are served.

In 1087, Agrigento managed to conquer Normanam. Normans gave a new impetus to the development of art and Christian culture, built numerous churches and fortification facilities that defended Agrigento from Pirates-Saracinov.

In the 19th century, the city was under the domination of Bourbons, until 1860, when Sicily's joins to the Kingdom of Italy took place.

Today, Agrigento has an area of \u200b\u200b245 square meters. km, the city is located at an altitude of 230 m. from the sea level and has about 55,500 inhabitants.

What to see in Agrigento?

History Center

The historic center of Agrigento is rich in historical monuments and palaces that tell about the glorious past of the city, however, unfortunately, today the old town is in a state of troubled. Nevertheless, this fact does not prevent tourists to walk along his streets and admire many places of historical and artistic interest.

Central Street Agrigento - Via Athena. San Calodero holiday. Photo Flickr.com.

Churches

In Agrigento, you will find many religious buildings that are worthy of your attention: from the Church of the "addolorat", famous for its underground scleps, to the Church of San Francesco di Paola, with two beautiful bell tower; From the "representative of the Baroque - Church of San Giuseppe to the Greek-Albanian Church of the 16th century" Del Terry ". In addition, interesting temples, from an architectural and historical point of view, are

Church of San Lorenzo, performed in the style of Baroque, with a facade, decorated with numerous statues;

Basilica Immaculate conception With a beautiful interior storing marble venel tomb and clergy;

Church of St. Nicholas, where there is a wooden crucifix, about which Name Pilandello narrates.

Do not forget to visit and CathedralToday, known as St. Geraldo Cathedral, the patron of the city. This building was built in 1100, and its construction lasted more than 200 years!

Cathedral of Agrigento. Interior. Photo Flickr.com.

These are just some basilica and churches that the city of Agrigento offers to inspection. In addition to photo sessions, opposite each of the temples of the city, we recommend that you go inside and evaluate the legacy of the great value stored in each of them.

Palaces and other interesting architectural objects

In addition to religious monuments, Agrigento will offer a lot of beautiful buildings and structures to the tourist inspection. This city hall should be attributed to the ruins of the ancient Dominican monastery of the XVII century, the Palace of Prefecture, built in the second half of the XIX century, the building of the post office of the fascist era and Palace "Palazzo Del Jenio Civile". The List of Interesting Buildings is also included also to include theater Pyrandendel (previously dedicated to the queen Margarita and only after 1946 a well-known writer), as well as the municipal city theater, built Giovanni Battista Basil and Dionisio Shash.

Pilac Pilandello Square. Agrigento. Photo Flickr.com.

Pyrandello Parentine Pearl House

Everyone who comes to Agrigento is necessarily going to the Pilandell's parental house, where the Nobel Prize laureate was born in 1867.

Square and Avenue

Most of the beauty of Agrigento is born on its avenues and squares. Start a walk from Vialie della-Wittoria Street, where Villa Bonfop is located, the most beautiful park Cities, with its green plantings, then stroll through Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele, crowded with beautiful buildings, do not miss the Cavour and Marconi Square and, of course, Via Atenea Street, which passes through the whole city.

Piazza Munichipio Square. Agrigento. Photo Flickr.com.

Museums

Museums Agrigento, of course, deserve attention. Among all regional museums are allocated to the importance of the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento, the most visited in all Sicily: his collections allow you to travel through history, art and ethnography of the region. Do not miss the Museum "Museo Civico", located on Piazza Munichipio, where some medieval and renaissance sculptures and paintings of great rigorous meanings are stored.

Province Agrigento

Beach recreation lovers must go to San Leone Beach, the most famous and famous beach in the entire province of Agrigento, located at the foot of the Valley of the Temples. In the summer, this beach is always filled with a crowd of holidaymakers. Another mandatory stop in the province of Agrigento is the town of Porto-Empedocle, where Pilandello and the modern Italian writer Andrea Camilleri were born. In addition, the Ruins of the Ancient Roman villa preserved in this seaside city.

San Leone Beach. Sunset. Photo Flickr.com.

Valley of the temples

Let the city of Agrigento cannot be compared to beauty with, or Rome, he has something to offer a tourist. Travelers from all over the world go to Agrigento to admire business card of this Sicilian city: picturesque valley Temples, which represents nothing more than the ruins of ancient Akregas, that is, the pristine Greek agritero. Located in the south-east of the center of Agrigento, this valley allows itself to imagine the period of prosperity and the greatness of the city under the rule of the Greek empire. Here, the ancient Greeks raised a number of doric temples in the fifth century BC.; Some of them are still well preserved, only remains remained, but even the kind of ruins deprives every tourist Dara Speech.

The entrance is paid, the valley is open from 9:00 am to sunset.

The main attractions of the Valley of the Temples:

Temple Concordia (Tempio Della Concordia)

This is one of the most impressive and best preserved temples. Built about 430 BC, the Temple of Concordia or the consent is a ritual building made in a doric style, and almost 100% resembles the famous Temple of Parfenon in Athens. The temple has a quadrangular shape, its width is 20 meters, and the width is 42 meters. Its columns are built by ancient Greek architects in such a way as to introduce everyone into a state of optical illusion: the temple looks above and majestic than it actually is.

Temple of Concordia. Photo Flickr.com.

Zeus Temple (Tempio di Zeus)

Made by rows in seven columns, unlike all other temples, which are married to six columns, the temple of Zeus is one of the largest buildings in the valley: its dimensions are 113 meters in length and 36 width. Unfortunately, the temple was not completed. The temple in honor of God Zeus, Lord of Olympus, was built in honor of the victory of Carthaginian, today only a number of columns remained from this temple. Next to this temple is Atlant, who once supported the arches of the temple (now in a lying position), 8 meters in height.

Atlant. Temple of Zeus. Photo Flickr.com.

Other temples

The rest of the temples are preserved and worse, however, it is worth noting the temple of Hercules (Tempio Di Ercole), probably the oldest in the valley, the Tempio diospio Di Giunone, the Tempio Dei Dioscuri, the Tomb of Theron, the Temple Castor and Polluks (Tempio Di Castoro E Polluce).

Temple of Juno. Photo Flickr.com.

What to try in Agrigento?

As befended in cities close to the coast, the kitchen based on seafood is dominated in Agrigento. Try the pasta with sardines, Squid soup, Cod "Alla Saccenese", baked mussels with chili pepper, grilled fish or pickled raw shrimps are dishes that you can find in every restaurant. Uponing from the theme "Sea", in Agrigento, you can enjoy a long series of traditional recipes. These include, for example, stewed rabbit meat, sausages with fennel, sesame and chili, lean veal, seasoned with cheese and ham, cooked in the oven, etc.

Do not forget to try sweets that are a real pearl of this province of Italy. Kaponate and Kassatne, cannoli and almond dough, chocolate and pistachios - only some of the main desserts of the city. Almonds is a distinctive additive to the test in the area: among the most famous "Cubaita" recipes, with honey and fried almonds, and Marturana cakes.

Holidays in Agrigento: Main events

Festival of blooming almonds

The most popular event on which the entire city is going is the Festival of Flowering Almond. This holiday is celebrated in February to celebrate the rapid arrival of spring in Sicily. The blooming almonds make Agrigento this season is a truly impressive place: thousands of tourists flock into the city during this period, because the Valley of the temples turns into a musical scene, crowded with flavors and gentle pink paints. In combination with almond blossom in the heart of the ancient Greek city, two international folklore festivals are held with the Golden Temple of the best folk group.

Festival of blooming almond. Photo Flickr.com.

San Calogero holiday

The whirlwind of sounds, colors and processions - this is exactly what the San Calojo holiday is celebrated in July for two weeks, despite the fact that this holy is not a patron of the city (defender Agrigento - San Geraldo). However, according to tradition, it is in honor of San Calojero in Agrigento arrange a huge mass procession with the statue of the Holy Streets of the city, folk songs sing and dance under the sounds of "Zingarella".

San Calodero holiday. Photo Flickr.com.

Feast Persephone

Numerous exhibitions and performances are held in June in the Valley of the Temples, near the temple of the Gera to celebrate the ancient Greek holiday Persephone, the daughter of Zeus, the goddess of fertility.

BLUES & WINE SOUL FESTIVAL

Once again, the Valley of the temples becomes an undisputed star of the holiday, which takes place in July. The festival of blues and soul music, along with wine tasting, passes among the remains of ancient Akregas - what could be more impressive! A similar event is carried out in August within the framework of the festival called "Moments of the International Folklore".

Where to stay in Agrigento?

Agrigento offers a good selection of hotels, especially three and four-star. Depending on your needs and your budget, you can choose from various categories of hotels - hotels, cottages of agriturism or Bed-and-Breakfast.

We invite you to get acquainted with Top-5 better hotels The provinces of Agrigento, according to the reviews of travelers left on the Boking.com portal.

1. Forester Baglio Della Luna - Via Serafino Amabile Guastella 1c - C.Da Maddalusa (Valle Dei Templi), 92100 San Leone, Italy

Hotel Baglio Della Luna is 5 km from the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, 800 meters from the beach.

2. COLLEVERDE PARK Hotel - Via Dei Templi, 92100 Agrigento, Italy

Hotel Colleverde Park is a 15-minute walk from the famous archaeological excavations of Agrigento and 2 km from his center. It overlooks the Valley of the Temples.

3. Hotel EXCLUSIVE - VIA Acrone15, 92100 Agrigento, Italy

Hotel Exclusive is located in the center of Agrigento, opposite the railway station. The hotel overlooks the Valley of the Temples and the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Hotel Costazzurra - Via Delle Viole 2, 92100 San Leone, Italy

Costazzurra is located in the seaside resort town of San Leone, just 3 km from the Valley of the Temples.

5. Hotel Concordia - Via San Francesco D "Assisi 11, 92100 Agrigento, Italy

Hotel Concordia is located in Agrigento, a 5-minute walk from the train station.

How to get to Agrigento?

By plane

Unfortunately, the city of Agrigento does not have its own airport. You can land in the city, or, and then take a bus, or maybe rent a car (for this link). Your efforts will be rewarded when you arrive at the destination!

Palermo Airport "Falcon Borselino" (PMO) Serves direct flights from all major Italian and European cities. Landing in Palermo, you can get to Agrigento, first Sitting on the TrinCria Express train, which is departed every half an hour from the airport and follows Palermo Central Station. From the station Palermo, many trains are sent to Agrigento (travel time is about 2 hours).

From Palermo Airport, a direct bus is sent to Agrigento (Sal).

Alternative is catani Fontanarossa International Airport (CTA)where the aircraft of all major international companies are launched.

From Catania Airport, a direct bus to Agrigento (SAIS TRASPORTI) follows. Time on the way is about 2.5 hours.

By car

From stick to the A18 highway to riding, then continue on A19 towards Palermo, departure to "", and finally continue on the SS 640 highway to Agrigento.

From Palermo follow the highway A19 in the direction of Catania, departure to Willabat, then continue on the SS 121 track about 118 km to the destination.

From following the SS 115 track through Noto, Raguz and Jelu to Agrigento.

From continental Italy:

follow the track A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria, departure to Villa San Giovanni, where is located ferry crossing Before Messina. From Messina Follow the A18 track to Catania, then continue on A19 Catania-Palermo, departure to "Caltanissetta", then continue on SS 640 to Agrigento.

By train

Agrigento has its own railway station, but, with the exception of Palermo, the railway service with other cities of Sicily and Italy suffers. If you are sitting on the train in Taormina or Catania, you will have to make one or more transplants.

By bus

The best way to get to Agrigento, there are buses that are departed / arriving at the city bus station (Piazza Rosselly Square).

Architectural monuments of Agrigento from the archaeological site zone ( "Valley of the temples") List. Many Agrigento temples are not even self-esteem. Numerous antique buildings are combined with the Baroque era architecture.

Ancient Akreagas was founded as a colony of immigrants from Rhodes Island from, about 581 BC. Over time, thanks to the active trade, the city of Akragas, becoming one of the largest cities of the ancient world with a population of at least 20 thousand people. Akragas was an independent city, but in 406 BC He was besieged by Carthaginians. The siege lasted 8 months and ended with the defeat of Akragas. Carthagean captured and destroyed the city. Later he was restored, but he could no longer regain her former shine. In 262 BC Akragas was attached to Rome on the rights of an ally, retaining its constitution.

Weather in Agrigento:

Attractions Agrigento

Among the main attractions of Agrigento - Valley of the temples (listed) and Old city Agrigento.

Valley of Temples - Agrigento (Agrigento), Sicily - Temple of consent

Impressions from Agrigento

If we talk about personal impressions from Agrigento, then the city himself looks very slum and poor - strange, sometimes to the worship, at home, very worn, at least outside. Simple restaurants, poor people, in general, one of the most "affected" cities in our journey in Sicily.

On the other hand. The Valley of Temples in Agrigento, of course, impress. To some extent, even more than the Acropolis in Athens - as you can come close to monuments ... In general, it is very worth going here, touch the story ... But you should not expect a lot from the city itself. And the car here, by the way, will be very unnecessary - the Valley of the temples is located a few kilometers from the city center, you can walk on foot, but we are tiring (even on the Valley of the temples, we, personally, in the day in Agrigento over 15 km of Natopali! And this is with Machine!)

Valley of temples in Agrigento (Valle Dei Templi)

The territory of ancient Akregas occupies a huge area, most of which is not yet excavated. Actually Valley of the temples is an archaeological zone in the south of an ancient city, where several monumental ancient Greek temples in the dormic style, built in the period 5 - 6 BC BC, are preserved. In the evenings, temples highlight, creating a unique atmosphere. Some temples from the valley are surprisingly well preserved, which has no analogues outside Greece. The very name of the "Valley of the Temples" is not quite true: no valley is not here, and the complex of temples is located on a steep elevation.

• Opening hours: Daily, including Vis and Holidays, from 8:30 to 19:00.
• Input:
• Eastern side with the temple of Zeus and the Greco-Roman quarter, except the cave Fragapane and Antiquarium Paleocristiano) - 10 € , preferential 5 €
• All Park Museum: 10 € , preferential 5 €
• Antiquarium Paleocristiano: 3 €, preferential 1.5 €
• Cave Fragapane: 3 €, preferential 1.5 €
• Night visit (from July 1 to September 5, Fri 19:30 - 21:30, in the outdates and holidays 19:30 - 23:30) - 10 €
• In the summer in the park it can be very hot, and there is almost no shadow: take the water and the headdress.

History of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento

The first found this historical monument, and also began to clear and implement the first excavation of the temple complex Italian archeologist Domenico Antonio Lofhaso Pietrasanta (1783 - 1863). This happened in the early 19th century. In 1809, he was inherited by the title of duke SERRADIFALCO, and it turned out that temple complex It turned out to be on the territory of his possessions. True, after three years later he had to part with his own rules in connection with the abolition of feudalism on. However, this time was enough to the archaeist enthusiast in order to present his finds of the public.

Philosopher Empedocl (5th century BC), originally from ancient Akregas, said:

"The power and brilliance of this city are such that the inhabitants of him are building temples, as if they were destined to live forever, but eat and drink as if they were destined to die the next day."

Poet Pindar called Akragas " beautiful city Among mortals. " However, in 406 BC, the city was besieged and destroyed by Carthaginians. The traces of their invasion are still visible on the Temple of Juno.

In the era of the Roman Empire, the "Tomb of the Teron" was built on this territory, which, as believed to be a necropolis of those who died during the second Punic War (218-202 BC). After the Byzantium beat off the territory of Sicily at tribes is ready, part of the temples turned into Christian churches, such as the Temple of Concerement. Catacombs and tombs are preserved from the Byzantines.

Architecture in the Valley of the temples Agrigento:

In the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, there are 7 ancient temples, all in doric style:

• Temple of Juno., built in the 5th century BC and burned 406 BC. Carthaginians. In this temple, as a rule, celebrated weddings.
• Temple of consent (Concordia)whose name comes from the Latin inscription about the conclusion of the world found nearby. The temple was built in the 5th century BC. Turning into the Christian church in the 6th century of our era, he is one of the most well-preserved in the valley.
• Temple Herculeswhich was one of the most revered deities in the ancient city of Akragas. This is the most ancient temple in the valley: destroyed by an earthquake, it consists of eight columns today.
• Temple of Zeus Olympic, built in 480 BC, in honor of the victory of the city-state over Carthage. Differs from other huge Atlants.
• Castor and Polluce Temple. Despite the fact that only four columns remained from him, the temple became a symbol of modern Agrigento.
• Temple of VolcanoAlso built in the 5th century BC. This is what is believed to be one of the most impressive structures in the valley; Now, however, he is one of the most destroyed.
• Temple Asclepia, Located not far from the walls of the ancient city; The pilgrims came here, seeking to cure from the disease.

The most well preserved two similar temples dedicated to the goddess Junon and the Temple of Concord. The last of two temples was in a unique good condition due to the fact that he was turned into a Christian church in 597. And the territory around it was used by Christians as a catacomb.

Temple of consent

TEMPIO DELLA CONCORDIA - It was divided into three halls: the central, portico in front of him and the following opsiode behind it (closed room in the western part of the temple). On the sides of the entrance to the central hall there were stairs leading to the roof. The temple was decorated with white stucco and colored details. Twelve arches made in the walls of the hall, as well as graves, dug in the floor, date back to the medieval, when the deputy was converted into the likeness of the Christian Basilica with three nefams. Despite the fact that the initial appearance of an ancient Greek temple was thus distorted, it is this restructuring of the temple owes its exceptional safety. In 1788, all elements of Christian decoration were removed during the restoration process, and the temple again found the appearance of a classic ancient structure.

Other temples have been preserved in a much more fragmentary state, being destroyed by strokes and used as a mostel.

Temple of Zeus Olympic

Fully destroyed huge temple of Zeus Olympic. Its construction began on the orders of Heron's type in honor of his victory over the Phoenician troops in the battle at Gimer (480 g BC). The temple that has already begun to use was never completed due to the invasion of Carthaginian. This is the largest Doric Temple (56 m wide and 111 m in length) known in the world. Stones from the destroyed temple were used to build a pier in the city of Porto EmpedoCle.

Temples, admitted by Hephasta, Hercules and Asclepia were also built on a sacred territory, which also falls on Demetra and Persephone sanctors. On the stones of the sanctuary still you can see traces from fire from the arsons of the Cartheginians in 406 BC.

Tomba Di Terone

Location of monuments in the Valley of the Temples:

Old Town Agrigento

Museo Civico.

Walking along Via Empédocle Street to the West, you will fall on Piazza Pirandello Square. There is a city municipality of Agrigento and the City Museum - Museo Civico. The Museum contains pictures of the 14th - 18th centuries, sculptures from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance era. You can also see Luigi Pilandello Memorial Room.

Address: Cortile St. Spirito, I-92100 Agrigento

Santa Maria Dei Greci

Lifting up from Museo Civico, in the narrow streets you can walk to the Church of Santa Maria Dei Grech. This is a three-nemical building dated by the Norman period, built on the site of Doric Temmar, dating from 488 BC. The stairs can be descended into the space under the church, where the terraces and columns of the original temple are preserved.

Cathedral of Agrigento (Duomo; Cattedrale di San Gerlando)

The Cathedral of Agrigento was built in the 11th century by Normans on the most high point ancient Acropolis, as a replacement of the temple of Zeus Atabirios. The name happened from the word ATABYROS, Self high mountain On the island of Rhodes, which reflects the Rhodes origin of the first settlers of the ancient Akregas.

Unfortunately, already in 1244, as a result of a landslide, the temple was seriously damaged, which demanded its reconstruction. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the cathedral was expanded, and in the 17th century it was redested in a baroque style. From the south side you can see double Norman windows. Next to the massive bell tower (1470 g), several steps lead to the church's chief goal.

Interior of the Cathedral in Agrigento

The interior of the church is a three-hole basilica, which was restored after the destructive earthquake of 1966. In the process of restoration, they tried to restore the medieval appearance of the nef. From later periods, only the magnificent wooden ceiling of the 15th century remained, although the choir still retains a clear baroque decor. Gothic appearance has been preserved in the front of the Tsecrevi - columns with octagonal bases and characteristic fit arches. Renaissance era includes elements of the facade and bell tower. On her southern facade with firmware there are signs of the influence of Spanish style planssic.

In the Gothic chapel to the right of the apse, a silver coffin is stored with the remains of the canonized bishop Gerlando (1639 g). In the church along the left church, glules of archbishops and noble citizens who lived in 15-17 centuries are placed. Near the southern entrance is a glass urn, which stores the disinterested body of St. Martyr Felix, who died in the 3rd century.

In the west of the Cathedral, the Episcopian Seminary is located - the Palace of the 14th century, rebuilt in 17 and 18 centuries.

Diocesan Museum

The museum presents church treasures, among which - the frescoes of the 15th and 15th centuries and the sacred relics of the Byzantine era.

The address: Piazza Don Minzoni, I-92100 Agrigento, Italy

Going down from the Diocesan Museum towards the station, you will fall on the square Piazza Purgatorio, named so in honor of the Church of Del Purgatorio located here (church of purgatory, as it is devoted to souls in purgatory) or St. Lawrence. The church is located on the site of an ancient crypt.

The interior of the temple is richly decorated with stucco, including the eight gypsum statues of Giacomo Serpotta (17th century), depicting virtue allegories: love, simplicity, mercy, prudence, justice, religion, courage and meekness. On the architect the gypsum images of the shower of purgatory. A decorative dome was made on the ceiling, decorated with a large fresco in the form of a raid vortex. One of the chapels of the Church - the Crucifix Chapel - was decorated in the 18th century; It is finished with gold and wooden crucifix 17th century. The church preserved two confessional 17th century - the oldest in Agrigento.

Church of the Holy Spirit

Walking down the street Via Fodera You will come to the former Tsistercian Monastery of the Holy Spirit (Santo Spirito-Santo Spirito). The facade of the church (dated about 1260) retained the initial gothic fitted gates and a rose window, whose vertex rests on the baroque fronton. For their grand architectural arrays dominating over eastern part Cities, he was called Bataranni, which translated from the local dialect means "great abbey."

The walls of the church on the sides are decorated with gypsum reliefs of the famous Master of Jacob Serpotta (1695), which depict scenes from the childhood of Jesus. In the niche, which was done in the left wall of the neopa, placed marble statue of Our Lady with the baby (15th century). Pay attention to the bowl with holy water - it dates back to the 5th century.

To the right of the church was preserved a club, the house of the capital and the refectory, in which the municipal library is now located.

Church of San Biagio

If you go from Piazza Marconi (opposite the railway station Agrigento) on Viale Della Vittoria Street to the southeast, you will fall on the eastern edge of the Rupe Atenea cliffs (351 m above sea level, with beautiful panoramic views) and Chiiesa di San Biadgio church. This is a small church, built in the 12th century during the period of the Norman rule from the stones remaining from the ancient buildings. The church is located on the site of the Demeter Temple, which was built in about 480 - 460 BC. The foundation and part of the northern wall can be seen behind the church apse. It is also worth paying attention to two round altars in the north of the building, which allegedly served as sacral graves. Inside them, ritual accessories have been preserved, which allowed identifying the sanctuary:

Sanctuary Demetra and Persephone

The stairs can be descended into the stone sanctuary of Demeters and Persefons (Santuario Rupestre Di Demetra), spent in a cool mountain slope Rupe atenea. This is the oldest place of Agrigento worship, dating from the 7th century BC, even up to the Greek period. The sanctuary is a narrow room in a rock, followed by two caves. The caves beat the sources, the water from which fills several tanks in the courtyard. The opening of ritual sacrificial accessories made it possible to attribute the sanctuary to the cult of the goddess Demeter and her daughter.

Festival of almond flowers

Festival of blooming almonds is held annually in the first half of February. These are folk walking, with songs, dancing, costumes and fireworks.

Map of Agrigento

In the vicinity of Agrigento

Realmonte - Eraclea Minoa - Sciacca - Caltabellotta - Sambuca

The route goes along western coast Sicily, along the main road 115 AGRIGENTO-Trapani. With high roads, there are excellent views of the beaches and rocks. Especially popular with tourists snow-white rocks in the area Realmonte and Eraclea Minoa..

Eraclea Minoa.

For lovers of history, the most interesting point will be the town Eraclea Minoa., founded at the beginning of the 6th century BC. Ancient residential area is located on a small plateau, discarding from the sea. Among the ancient ruins, you can see the rest of the theater, residential building and part ancient expensive. In a small museum near the territory of archaeological excavations, the most important findings of the Greco-Roman period are collected. Nearby located big Beach With thin sand and lush cedar forest. Continuing the way on the road 115 you will be taken to Sciacca.

Sciacca.

Sciacca. Notable for its monuments of the Middle Ages and the Baroque epoch, among which the Cathedral of the 17th century is particularly distinguished. Also worth see the church of St. Margarita (14th century), the remains of the Count Castle (14th century). The city has an ancient spa resort, which is famous overwhelmed by its own waters. At the top of Mount Monte Kronio, the sanctuary of St. Calogerio (Santuario Di S. Calogeno).

Hence the road is deeply deep in Sicily, in the direction at Caltabellotta and Sambuca di Sicilia.

Caltabellotta.

Caltabellotta. Located almost on top of the mountain at an altitude of almost 700 meters. Here you should watch a number of artistic and monumental historical monuments: the remains of the Norman castle, the burial (Tombe Sicane), Chiiesa Madre Church (erected by Ruggiero Count). From here open one of the most best species Sicily.

Sambuca di Sicilia.

Sambuca di Sicilia. It was founded by the Arabs. The ruins of the castle of Emir Zabut are preserved here. The city has preserved an interesting complex of Alley Saracinov. On a nearby Mount Monte Adranone (approx. 900 m above sea level), the ruins of the 4th century fortress BC are preserved. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the surrounding area - Porto Palo and Lido Fiore.

On the territory of Realmonte preserved Ancient Roman villa, dated 1st century BC.

Acque Calde. - popular resort with thermal sources.

Pelag Islands - Lampedusa and Linosa

This route leads from Agrigento to Pelag Islands Lampedusa, Linosa and Lampione, located in the African Sea southwest from Sicily. On the islands you can admire the picturesque species of nature, the rocky islands, idyllic beaches contrasting with the azure sea. You can get to the islands from April to November. Pelag Islands are associated with the port Empedocle ferries SIREMAR (time on the road - 7 hours), and in July and August there are additionally boats (3.5 hours on the road).

• LAMPEDUZ - The largest of the Pelags, here even is located its airport where they are committed regular flights From Punta Raisi Airport (Palermo). There are many hotels on the island, it is especially suitable for diving lovers.
• Linosa "A small island of volcanic origin, with a rich marine life, where a lot of diving lovers arrive during the year.
• Lampione - A small uninhabited rock with picturesque nature.

Raffadali - S. Angelo Muxaro

This route will hold you from Agrigento deep into Sicily to two historical centers, different from other cities of the island.

Raffadali., C Arabic Rahl Faddal, which means "Beautiful Home". Raffadali was founded by Arabs, but in place inhabited from the prehistoric period. This town is located a few kilometers north from Agrigento, at the foot of Monte Guastella Mountain, where prehistoric burials in caves and ruins have been preserved ancient castle 11th century. Here you can watch the ancient Roman sarcophages (3th century). In the Chiiesa Madre church, an elegant bas-relief is preserved with the image of the contamination of the Prosefin. In the church library are kept some archaeological finds Different eras.

A small medieval town is located in the south of Province of Sicily and is its administrative center. In the days of the Golden Age of ancient Greece, he was named AKRAGAS and was one of the largest settlements. Now most of the city is quite modern, but there are many unique medieval attractions on its streets.

We have compiled for you a list of the ten most interesting and visited places of Agrigento.

Valley of the temples ( Valle Dei Templi.)

Dolinas - a park-museum area consisting of necropolis, ancient wall, forum, agorods and doric temples, which were previously located in the heart of the ancient city. Antique ruins appeared in the 5-6 century BC. They are created in a classic colonnademic style and are dedicated to the gods: Polluksu and Castor Dioskuras, Eskulapu, Volcano, Hercules, Junon and Zeus.

The main parking is at the entrancePorta V. . Walk through the valley will take about 2 hours. Do not forget sunglasses and cap, they will save you not only from the Sun, but also from sandy storms that are not uncommon here.

The address: Valle Dei Templi, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: La Valle Dei Templi.

Working hours: 8.30-19.00.

Cost: 10 euros, preferential - 5 euros.

Temple of Zeus Olympic (TEMPLE OF OLYMPIAN ZEUS)

It was assumed that it would have dimensions of 56x112 meters and 20-meter monumental columns, so that it would become the largest Doric constructions of the ancient Greeks. However, because of the storming of the city by the inhabitants of Carthagen, the temple was never completed, and a strong earthquake almost completely destroyed what they managed to do. Now, in the midst of the ruins, you can see the 8-meter sculpture of the king of the Teammone, which rumbles up.

The address: Temple of Olympian Zeus, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: La Valle Dei Templi.

Working hours: 8.30-19.00.

Cost: 10 euros, preferential 5 euros.

Cattedrale di San Gerlando)

Cathedral, built in the 11th century on the highest point of the city. The temple seriously suffered from the landslide in 1244 and was reconstructed, and in the 17th century it was rebuilt in baroque traditions. The southern side of the cathedral is decorated with double Norman windows, and in the western part there is a bishop seminary. Leading from the Great Bell Tower Steps lead directly to the main entrance to the church.

Internal interiors are distinguished by a three-end basil, restored after the 1966 earthquake. In addition, it was possible to retain the reservoir in the medieval style, the wooden ceiling of the 15th century and the front part of the church in the Gothic style with the octagonal bases of the columns and the fitted arches. The bell tower and the facade are made in the Renaissance style.

The remains of the bishop Zherlando, the Archbishops who lived in the city in 15-17 centuries and noble people are kept in the church and modest chapel. There is a urn with the relics of St. Felix in the 3rd century near the southern entrance.

The address: Piazza Don Minzoni, 92100 Agrigento AG.

Transport stop: Via Duomo.

Working hours:10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Church of Our Lady (Chiesa Santa Maria Dei Greci)

The Greek Church of Our Lady, erected in the 13th century on the ruins of the Doric Temple of the 5th century to our era. It is built in the Greek-Byzantine style. The facade is decorated with a portal with a carved eaves having gothic elements. The interior of the church is three nefs under the rafter ceiling of wood. The walls are decorated with frescoes of the 14th century. In the right nefa, you can see the statue of the 16th century. In the gallery and left nef, fragments of the doric-based doric church are preserved.

The address: Salita Santa Maria Dei Greci, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: Via Santa Maria Dei Greci.

Working hours: 10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Sanctuary of St. Calohor.(C HIESA SAN CALOGERO)

The sanctuary of Holy Calohoter appeared from 13 to 14 century. It is divided into three parts with two colonnades with six Corinthian columns. The center is crowned with a rectangular apse with three drops, in the niche of one of which is the statue of St. Calohoter.

The altar is made in the 14th century presumably representatives of the Kapuchin Order. It was made of wood with pearl inserts, orange bark and rosewood. As decoration, multicolored gold-plated mosaics made by Michele Amiko.

The address: Piazzetta s. Calogeno, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: Via San Calogeno.

Church of the Holy Spirit (Monastero di Santo Spirito)

Church of the Holy Spirit, erected in 1260. The gates made in the Gothic style and a rose window with a baroque fronton are preserved. The walls of the building are decorated with gypsum bas-reliefs of Jacob Serpotta with scenes of Christhood Christ. In the recess on the left wall there is a marble statue of Our Lady of the 15th century.

The address: Cortile Santo Spirito, 9, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Stopping transport: Cortile Santo Spirito.

Working hours: 9.00-13.00 (Saturday), 9.00-13.00, 15.00-18.00 (other days).

Diocesan Museum

The Diocesan Museum was built from 1958 to 1963 by Architect Franco Minissi. Here are the most important relics located near the Cathedral of the Cathedral and the seminary adjacent to it, as well as exhibits telling about the history of the local church, its traditions and rites.

The address:Via Duomo, 96, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: Via Duomo.

Working hours: 10.00-13.30, 15.30-19.00.

Cost: 4 euros.

Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeological)

The draft Archaeological Museum in the 1960s also prepared Franco Minissi. The building is located in the heart of Old Agrigento, at the place of Villa Changtro Panitteri. The museum offers a wonderful view of the Valley of the Temples.

The exposition tells about the ancient Greek history and the history of Akragas at that time when he belonged to the Greeks. The tour includes visiting not only the museum itself, but also neighboring attractions - the temple of San Nicolas with the facade in Romanesque style, the ruins of the ancient Greek area of \u200b\u200bTimoleon and the covered gallery.

The most ancient exhibit refers to the 15th century BC - the oldest trinacria found on. Also, there is also a unique utensils of the 7th century to our era, vases, statuettes from clay, bowls for sacrifice and statues of Tclona and boys and athletes from the temple of Zeus.

The address: CONTRADA SAN NICOLA, 12, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: San Nicola.

Working hours: 9.00-19.00, on Sunday from 9.00 to 13.00.

Cost: 8 euros, preferential - 4 euros.

Museum of precious stones (Gems Museum)

Museum of precious stones is a unique institution in Sicily. Here you can admire the precious stones, learn to distinguish between natural and artificial jewels, as well as feel like a real hemologist, using professional equipment.

The address: Via Papa Luciani, 37, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Transport stop: Via Papa Luciani.

Working hours: 17.00-20.00 (Monday), 10.30-13.00, 17.00-20.00 (other days).

Botanical Garden ( Giardino Botanico di Agrigento)

Botanical garden with an area of \u200b\u200b7 hectares. Here you can see about 20 thousand species of rare plants, as well as inspect the amazing underground caves.

The address: Via Demetra, 92100 AGRIGENTO AG.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Had a lot of names: Akragas. - so called the city of Greeks, Agrigentum - who came after Romans, Kerkent. spoke Arabs Girgenti. - Normans. And only in 1929 the city officially became known.
It was founded by the Greeks from the island of Rhodes in 581 BC. Akragant. (Akragas) - so called the city of Greeks, became one of the significant and prosperous cities ancient Mira. At the same time was built Valley of the temples, and the city began to call "The most beautiful city of mortals".
But in 406 BC. The city was besieged by Carthagean under the command of Hannibal, after the stubborn struggle and the siege of the Carthaginian destroyed the ankragant almost completely. This has shown the horror of the Greeks and caused a political crisis. Subsequently, the city was restored.
During the 2nd Punic War, the Akragant passed under the rule of Rome and received a name - Agrigentum (Agrigentum).
These were the years of quiet history under the shadow of the prosperous Rome. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Agrigento was under the rule of the barbarians, then Byzantines and then Norman. The Aragontians changed the Spaniards, and in 1860 he became part of the United Isalya.
And only in 1929 the city officially became known.

Main landmark Agrigento - Valley of Temples - Extensive archaeological park with the Greek temples of VI and V BB. BC, which are considered to be the best samples of doric style outside Greece and are under UNESCO.

Agrigento. Valley of temples.

A few temples survived to this day. The most well-preserved temple - tEMPIO DELLA CONCORDIA, It was built in the V century. Rectangular at the base - 39.44 mx 16.91 m, with columns around the perimeter (6 x 13). In the VII century, the temple was rebuilt into the Christian Church of Saints Peter and Paul. It helped him so well to preserve to this day.

Temple of consent. Agrigento. Sicily.

The highest temple - temple of Gera or Juno Lazinia (Tempio Dei Hera Lacinia) - Doric Temple 450 BC A diameter of 38.15 m x 16.90 m, with 34 columns, 25 columns are preserved to this day.
According to legend, the famous picture was kept in this temple with the image of Juno, written by the Greek painter Zeevxis. And for this picture, Zeevxis examined in the naked form of all the girls of ancient Agrigento and chose five of them to reproduce in the picture that each of them was separately approved.

Temple of Ges Lazinia. Agrigento.

Temple of Hercules (Tempio Di Eracle) It was built in 510 BC. He personified the power and power of Hercules, who was so loved in Sicily. The church was a huge 73.99 m x 27.79 m with 38 collens. But only 8 majestic columns have been preserved to this day.

Temple of Hercules. Agrigento.

In another part of the park (the park is divided by a car for two parts) is tempio di Zeus (Giove) Olimpico), Erected in 480-479. BC. By order Tirana Theron. It was the most magnificent and grand temple, surrounded by 38 semi-colonents of six and a half metro in a circle and decorated with giant telemons height seven and a half meters, which supported the temple. Now only ruins remain from the temple. A copy of one of the lying telmons can be seen in the valley not far from the ruins of the temple. And the original is stored in the National Archaeological Museum.
You can still see the ruins tempio Dei Dioscuri, Esculap Temple (Tempio Di Escupalio), Ephesus Temple or Volcano (Tempio Di Efesto), as well as necropolis of early Christians.

Travel to the Valley of the Temples: From the railway station Agrigento goes to the bus before La Valle Dei Templi stop.
Site Valley of Temples - www.lavalledeempli.it

The historical center, which was formed in the IX-XV centuries. And still retained medieval buildings and a special atmosphere.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

On the elevation is located San Gerlando Cathedral (Piazza Don Minzoni)Founded by the Bishop of Jerlando in the XI century. The cathedral looks a bit strange. The bell tower, which was attached in the XV century and remained unfinished, the construction of the cathedral itself either did not end. Inside a wooden ceiling with beautiful paintings. In the building of the cathedral, magnificent acoustics.

San Gerlando Cathedral.

On the contrary, located Episcopal Palace and Seminarybuilt in 1574 and building "Luckezian library".
Church of Santa Maria dei-Greci (S. Maria Dei Greci) (Via Atenea) It was erected on the ruins of the Doric Temple of Athens V V.Do N.E., the ruins of which can be seen today.

Church of Santa Maria dei-Gling.

It is worth paying attention to the famous ravine - Via Bac Bac.


Agrigento. Sicily.

Agrigento. Sicily.

On cozy piazza Pirandello. The former monastery complex of Dominicans is located the city municipality, near the theater (XVIII century) Luigi Pilandello, as well as the urban museum.

Agrigento is the old capital of the province of Sicily, the residence of the bishop and one of the most amazing cities of all Italy. Antique architectural monuments from the archaeological site zone are included in the list World Heritage UNESCO. Most of the temples of Agrigento is unique in its conservation. The city itself is small, but very picturesque: on the one hand, it is surrounded by a turquisite sea surface, and the endless olive groves and gardens with almond and orange trees spread out. In Agrigento, surprisingly beautiful photos of natural landscapes are obtained.

• Area: 244 km²;
• Time Zone: UTC + 1, Summer UTC + 2;
• Population: 59 400.

general information

Despite its own rich historyThis beautiful corner of Sicily retained a variety of medieval buildings, among which the palaces, and the cathedrals, and the square - this place has absorbed the heritage of several dozen cultures. Today the network is well developed here. railwaysBinding Agrigento with major cities - Palermo and Catania. Also, this area is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches - the best on the whole coast of Sicily. The bathing season lasts almost all year, but dry and very sunny weather in Agrigento is complemented by African winds, and especially hot from May to October. Therefore, for a comfortable study of the main attractions, it is better to come in the middle of autumn or in spring.

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Valley of the temples

A small town is saturated with an atmosphere of antiquity and meets tourists with many colorful medieval buildings, but all the streets are invariably lead to the main for travelers of relics: the valley of the temples of Agrigento, which is a huge archaeological museum in the open-air. Here is 7. ancient temples:

- The Temple of Hercules is recognized as scientists with the oldest building of the entire valley. Its building refers to the 510 century BC. e. For its more than a thousand-year history, the temple was subjected to small restorations, but only 8 columns from 36 and small parts of the altar reached this day - the rest was destroyed.

- The Temple of Zeus Olympyon, erected allegedly in 480 BC, initially thoughtfully conceived the most majestic and large in all the world famous in those days: its area was 6340 square meters, the height of the columns reached 19 meters, huge niches with figures of 8 meters were tested at the entrance Atlas made up by stone blocks. Archaeologists discovered the surviving part of such a sculpture, an accurate copy of which is located at the foot of the temple, and the original preserves the regional archaeological museum located on the territory of the valley. Unfortunately, this is beautiful building Maximum destruction even before the start of our era.

- Temple of Dioscurov - Polluks and Castor. These deities were especially honored in ancient Akragas, which was standing on the site of modern Agrigento, since they were considered patrons of warriors and navigators. The construction of the temple belongs to the middle of the V century to our era. Its 4 preserved columns and antablement were cleared in the middle of the XIX century. This part of the temple has become one of the symbols of Agrigento.

- The Temple of Concordia or consent dates back to the estimated V century BC, its name happened from the Latin inscription found near the world's conclusion. It is assumed that this temple is also devoted to Dioskours. This is the most preserved building, which has come down to this day due to the fact that in the 6th century, our era was rebuilt into the Church of Peter and Paul. The temple is represented by 34 columns of almost 7 meters altitudes located on a large rectangular platform. The unique majestic simplicity and the proportionality of all the proportions of such an ancient building shakes every tourist.

- Juno Temple also belongs to V century BC. e. Burned in 406 to our era and restored by the Romans, he was allegedly used for wedding. Only the northern colonnade of the temple is well preserved.

- The temple of Askeyly - V century BC, is distinguished by small size, it is located near the walls once stood in the area of \u200b\u200bthe ancient city of Akragas. It is believed that here was the place of pilgrimage of the suffering seeking to cure their diseases. Excavations were started in 1926 and last until now. Scientists have found that there was a hospital or a hotel on 28 places near the temple, a tank with therapeutic water was found.

- Temple of the volcano - V century BC. Judging by the ruins, it was the monumental and possibly the largest valley building. However, only ruins, a completely destroyed temple remained to this day.

Agrigento charming ancient cityAnd to tell about all his sights is not possible, besides, it is better to see once than to hear than a hundred times. Come and touch millennial history once mighty civilizations.

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