Bestseller
Entrance to Segesta Archeological Park + Roundtrip Shuttle Service
From 21,00 €
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You don’t need to be a lover of Greek and Roman history to be captivated by Segesta: the ancient ruins of this exceptionally important archaeological site possess a powerful evocative force and truly enchanting appeal.
Leave behind the stunning Sicilian coastline, with its brilliant azure waters and secluded coves, and venture inland. Nestled within a landscape of extraordinary natural beauty lies the Segesta archaeological park, home to its famous Doric temple and Hellenistic theatre.
Feel remarkably small beside the imposing columns of the temple, imagine attending a theatrical performance alongside 2,999 other spectators, indulge yourself photographing stunning natural vistas, and wander through the remains of an ancient city whilst pondering its mysteries.
Who ever said classical history was dull?
Located 11 km from the coast, Segesta was the principal city founded by the Elymians, an ancient people who settled in western Sicily before the arrival of the Greeks, renowned for also establishing the charming city of Erice.
It appears that for a considerable time the Elymians managed to maintain their own distinct identity, resisting the cultural dominance of the Greeks as had occurred with other Sicilian peoples, though reliable historical records on this matter are scarce.
What is certain is that Segesta, founded in the 5th century BC, was a historic rival of the Greek city of Selinunte, situated at the southern edge of Elymian territory and destroyed by them after various historical events involving Athens and Carthage.
Segesta soon became allied with Rome, but by that time Elymian culture had already become indistinguishable from that of other Sicilian peoples.
What remains of ancient Segesta’s former splendour are archaeological remains of extraordinary beauty, set within an idyllic natural landscape that has remained virtually unchanged, thanks to the fact that following the city’s relocation to the coast, no subsequent urban settlements developed in this area.
The urban layout of ancient Segesta remains partly mysterious and the subject of ongoing archaeological research: future scientific excavations may eventually provide a more accurate picture of this enigmatic and captivating city.
For most visitors, a trip to Segesta Archaeological Park centres on its most celebrated remains: the temple and theatre, two outstanding examples of classical architecture.
However, a visit to Segesta encompasses far more than just the temple and theatre: within the archaeological park you can also see the remains of a sanctuary of Elymian rite, the ruins of several towers, a fortified gate and a section of the city walls.
The Segesta Temple is one of the finest surviving examples of a Doric temple. Built around 430 BC, it was never completed. Majestic and imposing upon a gentle hilltop rising at the centre of a valley, the temple seems possessed of a proud and dignified spirit that defies the passage of time.
Walk all the way around the temple, admiring its mighty columns, then turn your gaze towards the valley for a sense of complete and transcendent contemplation.
The theatre is arguably the most striking structure within the entire complex. Carved into the rock of Monte Barbaro, it was constructed between the 3rd and 4th centuries BC and could accommodate up to 3,000 spectators. From here you can enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding hills and valley below.
In summer, the theatre becomes an evocative venue for performances of ancient Greek tragedies, literary readings and other cultural events.
Entry to Segesta Archaeological Park in Sicily is charged. We recommend purchasing a priority entrance ticket below to avoid queues at the ticket office and ensure your visit.
Segesta is located approximately seventy kilometres from Palermo, but is not accessible by public transport.
If you have a private or hire car, you can reach it in just over an hour by taking the A29 motorway towards Marsala; exit at Segesta and follow signs to the archaeological area.
If travelling from Trapani, the distance is approximately 32 km.
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