World Heritage Identification Number: 831
World Heritage since: 1997
Category: Cultural Heritage
Transboundary Heritage: No
Endangered Heritage: No
Country: 🇮🇹 Italy
Continent: Europe
UNESCO World Region: Europe and North America
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The Archaeological Area of Agrigento: A Testament to Ancient Greek Civilization
The Archaeological Area of Agrigento, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, stands as a testament to the grandeur and cultural significance of ancient Greek civilization. Situated in the western part of Sicily, Italy, this extensive archaeological park offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and artistic prowess of the Greeks who once thrived in this region.
More to come…UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site
Founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century B.C., Agrigento became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean world. Its supremacy and pride are demonstrated by the remains of the magnificent Doric temples that dominate the ancient town, much of which still lies intact under today's fields and orchards. Selected excavated areas throw light on the later Hellenistic and Roman town and the burial practices of its early Christian inhabitants.
UNESCO Justification of the World Heritage Site
The Committee decided to inscribe this site on the basis of criteria (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv), considering that Agrigento was one of the greatest cities of the ancient Mediterranean world, and it has been preserved in an exceptionally intact condition. Its great row of Doric temples is one of the most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture.
Encyclopedia Record: Valle dei Templi
The Valle dei Templi, or Valley of the Temples, is an archaeological site in Agrigento, Sicily. It is one of the most outstanding examples of ancient Greek art and architecture of Magna Graecia, and is one of the main attractions of Sicily. The term "valley" is a misnomer, the site being located on a ridge outside the town of Agrigento.Additional Site Details
Area: 934 hectares
(ii) — Significant interchange of human values
(iii) — Unique or exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition
(iv) — Outstanding example of a type of building or landscape
Coordinates: 37.28972222 , 13.59333333
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© Ludvig14, CC BY-SA 4.0 Resized from original. (This derivative is under the same CC BY-SA license.)
