Sicily, the biggest island in Italy, is so rich in beauty and culture. However, when it comes to places to see, Agrigento, one of the cities among the county towns in Sicily, deserves a focus. Its original Greek name is Akragas, which comes from the name of the river that wets this breathtaking city.
Have you ever heard about the Valley of the Temples? This archeological park belonging to the Hellenic Era has become the symbol of the city and consists of various Doric temples dedicated to several gods. A walk through the Greek temples will bring you back to 2000 years ago, better than any science fiction film can do. They were built in the 5th century BC and witnessed the prosperity of the city; they later became Roman property after the Carthaginian attack, but soon they were abandoned due to the decline of the city and the demographic decrease.
The temples are not the only popular attraction: in Agrigento you’re spoilt for choice. The Turkish Steps are indeed another popular destination. White stunning cliffs, forged by winds and waves in million years, they slide into water and take their name from the pirates that used to land on them. Today the entire area is at hydrogeological risk and it has been forbidden to climb the cliffs. The Turkish Steps have regained popularity thanks to some of the delightful stories about Inspector Montalbano written by the local novelist Andrea Camilleri.
Agrigento is also the birthplace of Luigi Pirandello, another well-known author who was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature. It is possible for tourists to visit his house and to admire his works. “You will learn at your expense that along the journey of life you will meet many masks and just a few faces” he stated in his famous work Uno, Nessuno e Centomila, believing that each person wears a mask to deal with society. Perhaps he was right.
So, what are you waiting for? Go and visit Agrigento!
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