The archaeological site of Segesta is one of the most valuable historic sites in Sicily. A center from ancient origins, the historical rival of Selinunte is located in the western part of the island, surrounded by a green and quiet countryside about 40 km from Trapani.
There is a beautifully preserved temple, harmonious in structure, and the most complete that has lasted to our days, as well as the theater, located in a scenic location on Mount Barbaro, approximately 400 meters high.
Hours entry: From June 3 to October 4, opening at 9.00 closing at 7.30 pm. FromOctober 5 to 31 hours closure 6 pm.. From November 1 to December 31, closing at 5 pm.Last admission one hour before closing forever.
Single ticket Full price: € 6.00
Single ticket reduced: 3,00 €
The temple of Segesta, solemnly placed on a hill at the foot of Mount Barbaro, is certainly among the most exciting examples of Greek architecture. Completely isolated from the urban world, its white columns stand out among the green of the landscape,.
Its construction dates back to the late fifth century BC, during the alliance with Athens. There are a total of 36 columns, not partly scalanated to avoid possible optical illusions (a technique also used in the Parthenon in Athens).
There was much debate about the function of the temple: the prevailing view is that the building was deliberately unburied, in order to let know of a pre-existing local place of worship, where the celebration took place outdoors.
Dug on the walls of Mount Barbaro, scenically place to the north, with a beautiful view of the sea, surrounded by green fields, the greek theater of Segesta is a further example of the importance that the city claimed in its past. Probably changed during the Roman period, the theater now has about 4,000 seats, divided over 20 orders of rows.
The landmark, preserved only in part, was equipped with underground passages that allowed the actors to suddenly appear during the scenes. The acoustic resonance is still well maintained, so the theater can still be used for various comedies and tragedies.
