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Agrigento

Agrigento, Sicilia, Italy

Journey Back in Time in Agrigento, Sicily Agrigento, perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean, offers more than just stunning seascapes. This Sicilian city is a captivating blend of ancient history, …

#Historical sites#Archaeological ruins#Mediterranean cuisine#Coastal views#Ancient Greek temples

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Agrigento.

Top Hotels in Agrigento

Top Flights to Agrigento

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Agrigento.

Tours

Valley of the Temples Exploration

Explore the ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved Greek temples.

Shopping

Agrigento City Shopping

Experience shopping in Agrigento's vibrant city center with a mix of traditional and modern businesses.

Outdoor

Scala dei Turchi Beach Day

Enjoy a day at the beautiful Scala dei Turchi beach, renowned for its stunning white cliffs.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Agrigento.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Not Available

Languages

Italian, Sicilian

Average weather

Agrigento

Jan

14°8°

Feb

15°8°

Mar

17°10°

Apr

19°12°

May

23°15°

Jun

27°19°

Jul

30°22°

Aug

31°23°

Sep

28°21°

Oct

24°17°

Nov

19°13°

Dec

15°9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Agrigento.

What people love

Agrigento, located in Sicily, Italy, is a stunning destination with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Agrigento:

Valley of the Temples: Agrigento is home to the famous Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This archaeological park features well-preserved ancient Greek temples, including the iconic Temple of Concordia. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the ancient ruins.
Scenic beauty: Agrigento is known for its picturesque landscapes, including stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The region is characterized by rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural heritage: Agrigento has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its historic architecture, museums, and local traditions. Visitors can explore the city's historic center, visit museums showcasing ancient artifacts, and experience traditional Sicilian cuisine and festivals.
Sicilian cuisine: Agrigento is a great place to indulge in Sicilian cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, flavorful pastas, and delicious desserts. The local markets offer a wide variety of fresh produce and regional specialties that are sure to delight food lovers.
Hospitality: The people of Agrigento are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor, making visitors feel welcome and at home during their stay. The local residents are often eager to share their culture and traditions with tourists, creating a memorable and authentic travel experience.

Overall, traveling to Agrigento offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights that are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

What to know

Traveling to Agrigento in Sicily, Italy, does come with some potential cons:

Tourist crowds: Agrigento is a popular tourist destination, especially known for its ancient Greek temples. During peak tourist seasons, the city can get quite crowded, impacting your ability to fully enjoy the attractions.
Extreme heat: Sicily is known for its hot summers, and Agrigento is no exception. Traveling during the peak summer months can mean dealing with high temperatures and intense sun exposure, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Limited public transportation: While Agrigento does have some public transportation options, they may not be as extensive or reliable as in larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to fully explore the area, which can add to the cost and complexity of your trip.
Language barrier: While many people in Agrigento may speak English, especially in tourist areas, the predominant language is Italian. If you are not fluent in Italian, you may encounter some communication challenges during your stay.
Limited nightlife: Agrigento is more known for its historical sites and natural beauty rather than its nightlife. If you are looking for a vibrant party scene, you may be disappointed by the limited options available in the city.

Overall, while Agrigento offers a rich cultural experience and stunning ancient ruins, it's essential to consider these potential cons when planning your trip.

Agrigento, located on the southern coast of Sicily, Italy, is a city with a rich and varied history, dating back to ancient times. Here is a detailed history of Agrigento:

Ancient History

Foundation: Agrigento was founded in 580 BC by Greek colonists from Gela and Rhodes. The original name of the city was Akragas, named after the nearby river. It became one of the leading cities of Magna Graecia.
Prosperity and Growth: Akragas quickly grew in power and influence due to its fertile land and strategic location. It became wealthy from agriculture, trade, and its natural resources.
Theron: Under the tyrant Theron (reign: 488–472 BC), Akragas reached the height of its power. Theron was a significant figure in the city’s history, known for his role in the Battle of Himera (480 BC), where he and the Syracusan tyrant Gelon defeated the Carthaginians.
Cultural Flourishing: During its peak, Akragas was known for its cultural achievements and impressive architecture. The city was home to philosophers like Empedocles and had a remarkable array of temples and public buildings.
Destruction by Carthage: Akragas was sacked by the Carthaginians in 406 BC, which marked the beginning of its decline.

Roman Period

Roman Conquest: The city came under Roman control in 210 BC during the Second Punic War. The Romans renamed it Agrigentum.
Roman Influence: Under Roman rule, Agrigento became a quieter provincial town, but it retained some of its importance due to its fertile agricultural land.

Byzantine and Arab Periods

Byzantine Rule: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Agrigento became part of the Byzantine Empire.
Arab Conquest: In the 9th century, the city was conquered by the Arabs, who renamed it Kerkent. Under Arab rule, the city experienced a period of prosperity.

Norman and Later Periods

Norman Conquest: The Normans captured Agrigento in the 11th century. The city became part of the Kingdom of Sicily.
Medieval Development: During the medieval period, Agrigento was a significant religious center, evident from the construction of churches and monasteries.

Modern History

Italian Unification: Agrigento became part of the unified Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century.
World War II: During World War II, Agrigento was affected by the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943.

Landmarks

Valley of the Temples: One of Agrigento's most famous landmarks is the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes the remains of several Doric temples, such as the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Juno, and the Temple of Heracles.
Archaeological Museum: The Regional Archaeological Museum of Agrigento houses an extensive collection of ancient artifacts from the area.
Cathedral of San Gerlando: Founded in the 11th century, this cathedral is an important religious site in Agrigento.
Via Atenea: The main street of modern Agrigento, known for its shops, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere.

Agrigento's history is a testament to its significance as a cultural and historical center in Sicily, reflecting the diverse civilizations that have influenced its development over the centuries.