Sicily ->

Agrigento

Not only is Agrigento one of Sicily's finest ancient cities, it was also one of the first to have a democratic constitution written by the philosopher, Empedocles, a native of the city who for centuries dominated medical and physical theories in European history.

The sight of the rising or setting sun gleaming on the soft golden sandstone of the temples is quite unforgettable. Sicily has many ancient ruins, but none surpass the glory that is Agrigento. The structures date back to the fifth and sixth centuries, when it was settled by Greeks from Rhodes and Greek Sicilians. There are nine Doric temples in all, dedicated to various gods. The most well-preserved and striking of them, the Concordia, is arguably the best-preserved temple in the world outside the Hephaistion in Athens.

Its excellent state of preservation today comes partly from its use for many centuries later as a Christian church. It is possible to visit the ruins on one's own from nine in the morning until one hour before sunset, or with one of the specialist guides who vividly bring to life the history and architectural styles of the Valley.

Today, seasonal wild flowers grow among the ruins and temples and provide an idyllic setting for the folklore and musical events held throughout the summer.

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