Uncover the grandeur of Sicily's city, renowned for its colossal ancient city, among the largest and most awe-inspiring in the Mediterranean—an absolute must-see!
Nestled on the southwest coast of Sicily, Selinunte stands as a hidden gem off the beaten path of the Mediterranean coastline. This seaside resort offers a historic setting like no other, with its majestic ruins harking back to the glory days of ancient Greece.
The most impressive structures in Selinunte are undoubtedly the vast temples built in the Doric style, a testament to early Greek architectural prowess. Seven of these temples, some of the largest ever built, can be found within the extensive archaeological park, the largest in Europe, spanning over 2,500 years of history.
The Acropolis of Selinunte, a majestic cliff-side area, is a must-visit. Filled with sacred temples, towers, and an eight-meter-high boundary wall, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea, making it a photographer's paradise.
Visitors can also tour the sanctuaries, necropolis, and the Cusa caves, ancient stone quarries where the temple blocks were extracted. These sites provide valuable context to the grandeur of Selinunte's structures and illustrate the scale of the ancient construction efforts.
Exploring the archaeological site can be done on foot, by electric car, or with a small tourist train, ensuring that visitors can comfortably and enjoyably cover the large area. The on-site archaeological museum complements the ruins with artifacts and historical explanations, while digital guides and audio tours provide additional insight into Selinunte's history as a former Greek colony and battlefield between Romans and Carthaginians.
The beaches near Selinunte are fine sand beaches bordered by turquoise waters, and some are located at the foot of the ruins, offering a unique view of the ancient temples. Nearby, the natural reserve of Foce del Fiume Belice houses a protected wild beach where turtles come to lay their eggs.
Selinunte, once a flourishing city, is among the largest archaeological sites in Europe and forms part of one of the largest Mediterranean archaeological parks. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in an expansive, well-preserved ancient Greek city, combining stunning ruins, historical insights, and beautiful coastal views. This makes it a must-see for history buffs and travelers interested in ancient Mediterranean civilizations.
The city of Selinunte was established around 630 BC by inhabitants of Megara Hyblea. It quickly became one of the most prosperous Greek colonies in Sicily due to its strategic position, agricultural development, and equestrian activities. However, Selinunte was gradually abandoned due to successive earthquakes.
The ruins of Selinunte were rediscovered in the 16th century by historian Tommaso Fazello. During the First Punic War, the Carthaginians abandoned Selinunte to the Romans, leading to its definitive decline. The archaeological site of Selinunte is divided into four zones: the temples, the acropolis, the ancient city, and the Malophoros sanctuary.
References: [1] Selinunte Archaeological Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.parcoselinunte.it/en/ [2] Selinunte: A Guide to the Archaeological Site. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.italyheaven.com/sicily/selinunte/guide-to-the-archaeological-site/ [3] Selinunte. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.italia.it/en/sicily/selinunte.html [4] Selinunte. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.world-guides.com/europe/italy/sicily/selinunte/
While admiring the breathtaking panoramic views from the Acropolis of Selinunte, one might feel a longing for the in-flight comforts that 21st-century lifestyles often provide. However, a trip to this ancient seaside resort offers more than just historical insights and coastal beauty; it presents a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in a well-preserved ancient Greek city, making Selinunte a must-see destination for anyone interested in the Mediterranean's rich cultural heritage.
