Temple of Heracles

Built around 440 BC, the Temple of Concordia is the most iconic and well-preserved monument in the Valley of the Temples. Its nearly intact colonnade—34 sturdy Doric columns—stands as a testament to classical Greek engineering. Converted into a Christian basilica in the 6th century, it was later restored to its original form. The temple sits on a ridge with stunning views and is particularly striking at sunrise or sunset when bathed in golden light. Now a symbol of Agrigento, it gives the valley its most recognisable image.

Begun after the Battle of Himera in 480 BC, this was intended to be the largest Doric temple ever built. Though never completed and now mostly collapsed, its immense base (56 × 113 m) hints at its original scale. The temple was unusual in having giant male figures, called telamones or atlases, integrated into its structure as support columns. Fragments of one 7.6 m-tall-figure lie nearby. Destroyed by earthquakes and later used as a stone quarry, it remains an impressive and evocative ruin.

Located just outside the city walls to the south, this small temple was dedicated to the god of healing. It likely served as a sanctuary for pilgrims seeking cures and is referenced by ancient writers like Polybius. Today, only the foundation and base stones remain, but the site is peaceful and evocative, sitting away from the more crowded temples.

This small Doric temple is recognisable by its four reconstructed column, reassembled in the 19th century using architectural fragments from across the site. Built as a peripteral 6 × 13-column temple from the mid-5th century BC, it stood in honour of the Dioscuri, though some scholars argue it may have been dedicated to chthonic deities. A symbolic entry point to the Valley, it’s often the first temple visitors see after entering via Porta V.

Located in the former medieval monastery of San Nicola within the archaeological park’s area, this museum houses over 5,600 artefacts from prehistoric to Roman Sicily. Highlights include the massive Telamon statue from the Temple of Zeus, Greek ceramics, coins, sarcophagi, and scale models of the monuments. Excellent signage and a modern visitor route by architect Franco Minissi.

Step into a lush, fragrant oasis beneath the temples: restored by FAI and spanning about 5 ha within the archaeological park. Wander citrus groves, almond‑olive terraces, and Mediterranean scrub nourished by ancient aqueducts. Guided tours of the underground hypogea (aqueduct chambers) are available by reservation. A sensory, historical, and botanical highlight a short walk from the Temple of the Dioscuri.