Agrigento
Agrigento: the city of temples
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Agrigento, a Sicilian city that deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime. Agrigento is an Italian municipality of about 55,000 inhabitants, located in Sicily. Known as the "City of temples", Agrigento is famous for its archaeological sites that collect ancient evidence of the ancient Greek city.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of Agrigento is located in a strategic position between two rivers, San Leone and Acragas, and it is settled on a plateau overlooking the sea. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural and historical landscapes, including the Regional Park "Valley of the Temples".
Climate
The climate of Agrigento is mild in winter, while in summer temperatures can become torrid. Annual precipitation mainly concentrates at the end of autumn and winter. According to meteorological data, the average temperature of the coldest month, January, is 11°C, while that of the hottest month, August, is 28.5°C.
Origin of the name
During its millennial history, Agrigento changed its name many times, depending on the peoples who conquered it. The original name, given by the Greeks, was Akragas, while the Romans called it Agrigentum. The Arabs renamed it Kerkent or Gergent, while the Normans called it Girgenti. This name remained official until 1927 when it was Italianized into Agrigento.
History
Agrigento was founded around 581 BCE and reached its peak in the 5th century BCE, before the decline caused by the war with Carthage. Subsequently, the city was conquered by the Romans and later fell under the rule of the Arabs, who renamed it Kerkent. In 1089, the Normans conquered the city and changed its name again to Girgenti. Agrigento remained under Norman rule until the end of the 15th century when it passed under the control of the Spaniards.
Temples of the ancient Greek city
But let's come to the most interesting part of Agrigento: its temples of the ancient Greek city. The Valley of the temples of Agrigento was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. Here are the remains of several ancient temples, including the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Zeus Olympius, and the Temple of Hercules. These temples are evidence of the magnificence of the ancient Greek city of Akragas and are extraordinary examples of Greek architecture.
In addition, important cultural and artistic events such as concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances take place in the Valley of the Temples. In summer, the Valley becomes a perfect place for a romantic walk under the starlight.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Agrigento is a wonderful city that is worth visiting. Its millennial history and ancient temples make it a unique place in the world. If you are thinking of taking a trip to Sicily, do not forget to include Agrigento in your list of destinations to visit!
