Agrigento is a larger town on the southern coast of Sicily famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site. Which one you ask? Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples), that sits in the valley underneath.
Though it might not seem so today, centuries ago Agrigento was one of the strong cities dominating the Mediterranean Sea. Today, it serves as a capital of Sicily’s central-southern province. As you enter the city, don’t be put off by the elevated roads and rough industrial buildings of its outer ring. Push through it to its medieval core and discover the many amazing things to do in Agrigento.
Pindaro, a famous Greek poet, once called Agrigento “the most beautiful among the mortal towns”. Indeed, the town does possess all the right ingredients to win over its visitors. Rising 230m above sea level, the town crowns the surrounding countryside sprinkled with olive groves and ancient ruins. The town has it all: the history, the sea, and nature.
Old Town
The old city center is a wonderful maze of alleyways. Via Atenea cutting straight through that chaos and acting as a life rope for your orientation sense. Like many other Sicilian towns, Agrigento, too, is peppered with elements of Roman, Greek, Arab and Norman cultures that once occupied the island. The best way of experiencing this mishmash of cultural influences is to lose yourself strolling or observe while enjoying a refreshment in a local café. Make sure to keep your eyes opened for religious structures such as the Cathedral of Saint Gerlando, the church of Saint Laurence or Abbey of the Holy Spirit.
Ancient Temples
However, the world knows Agrigento best as the City of Temples. That is thanks to the before mentioned World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Valle dei Templi is undoubtedly the most incredible echo of Greek presence on the island. Furthermore, you can visit the incredible Museo Archeologico sitting between the valley and the town, filled with a wide range of artifacts and exhibits found in the area.
The Coast
While numerous Agrigento treasures shine in and around the town, don't forget about the coastline. In fact, it’s quite famous for its beauty. So, if you run out of the historic things to do in Agrigento, come down to the coast to admire Scala dei Turchi (a unique white rock cliff) as well as beautiful sandy beaches (e.g., San Leo, Porto Palo or Eraclea Minoa).
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