Villas in Sicily near Selinunte >>
On the south west coast of Sicily, not far from Mazara del Vallo, lies one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. On a par with pretty much anything found in Greece itself, Selinunte has lain abandoned for over 2,000 years, its numerous temples, acropolis and agora in dignified ruins.
From being one of the most progressive and eminent cities in Magna Graecia, in 409BC Selinunte became, almost overnight, a large expanse of rubble. The reason for this was an attack from the old enemy, the Carthaginians who, for many years, had seen this upstart town as a threat to their influence in Sicily. Taking advantage of some trouble between the Greeks of Selinunte and the Elyminians of Segesta, the Carthaginians sent some 100,000 men to lay siege to the town, which was only able to hold out for nine days. The subsequent sacking involved the massacre of some 16,000 of the town’s inhabitants while most of the remaining citizens were taken into slavery.
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Selinunte is beautifully located, sitting on a high plain and overlooking the sea. It is flanked on either side by golden beaches and, being almost 1km wide, is an excellent excuse for a good walk, though it is also possible to get around on electric buggies.
Nearby, about 10km to the east, is another gem for those with a passion for ancient history: the Cave di Cusa. This quarry is remarkable for as it has remained exactly as it was over 2,000 years ago when Selinunte was razed to the ground and its stone masons had to flee for their lives, leaving behind them enormous, half-extracted pieces of column, cut directly from the rock. The quarry provides a perfect demonstration of how the temples at Selinunte were built and how the local craftsmen and engineers set about constructing their masterpeices.
Villas in Sicily near Selinunte >>
Selinunte is a great day out for families with kids. Combine it with a visit to the beach at Marinella, where there is a great restaurant, La Pineta!
Greek and other archaeological sites in Sicily: