Selinunte Information

Main information about Selinunte

Selinunte is a Greek archaeological site that dates back to 628 BC. It is one of Sicily's most important Greek sites and was colonised by settlers from Megara Hyblaea. It grew in prestige for some time but was finally sacked by the Carthaginians in 409 BC and an earthquake inflicted further damage until the last of the settlers finally transferred to Marsala in 250 BC.

The last recorded settlement here was in the 13th century and it was then lost for some time until it was rediscovered in the 16th century and excavated in 1823.

Today there are five temples to explore around the old acropolis. The one dedicated to Hera has been re-erected for dramatic effect and its 25 metre high columns are indeed impressive. The other temples are a bit of a hotch-potch of stones and carvings, but it can be fun trying to piece them together in your mind. It’s something like a life sized jig saw puzzle but with pieces a little too heavy to move – so let your imagination do it for you.

The archaeological site is divided into two zones and once you've seen the first three temples, it is unfortunately a bit of a trek to the second set of temples. This can be particularly hot in summer. You can rent eco-tour cars and bikes at the entrance or take your own car down to make it a little easier. It is worth making the effort as the ruins here, including the acropolis, are dramatically located above the beach. There's also the north gate of the city and the main street to inspect.

Head out in Marinella di Selinunte in the early morning and watch fish being auctioned at the pier. There are some interesting exchanges to observe amongst the locals and plenty of local characters.