Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Eastern Temples are the most stunning of all Selinunte's ruins, crowned by the
in 1958, it stands out due to its completeness. It is the first of the three temples close to the
ticket office.
BC and, although never completed, was one of the largest temples in the Greek world.
Today it is a massive pile of impressive rubble - as is its counterpart directly to the south,
Sanctuary of
Malophoros
Walk west about 20 minutes from the acropolis across the now-dry river Modione
(formerly the Selinon), then up a dirt path, and you'll reach the ravaged ruins of the
temple dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of fertility. Amid the debris, two altars can be
made out; the larger of the two was used for sacrifices.
Although they're not much to look at, these are some of the most important finds of the
site as they provide an insight into the social history of Selinunte. Thousands of votive of-
ferings to Demeter have been found in the area (nearly 12,000), including stelae crowned
with real human heads.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Ancient City
Occupying the hill of Manuzza, to the north of the acropolis, the Ancient City, where most
of Selinunte's inhabitants lived, is the least excavated of all the sites. Exploration of the
area has only begun in recent years, and evidence suggests that survivors of the destruc-
tion of 409 BC may have used the city as a necropolis.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Lido di Zabbara
No visit to Selinunte is complete without a walk along this attractive stretch of beach be-
low the archaeological site, which affords marvellous views back up to the cliff-top
temples. A path once led here from the acropolis parking area, but it has now been fenced
off, so the only access is via the beachfront town of Marinella di Selinunte.
BEACH
Eating
