Segesta
A Doric Greek temple from the late 5th century BC, remarkably well preserved in the countryside. A Greek theatre on the hilltop overlooks the bay, making it a classic day trip.
Segesta was an ancient city of the Elymians. The Doric temple, standing alone in a valley, was built in the late 5th century BC. Its 36 columns are almost fully intact, but it has no roof and no fluting, and it is believed it was never finished. Opposite, on the summit of Monte Barbaro, is a Greek theatre. You can take the park shuttle bus or walk up in about 20 minutes, with views over the Gulf of Castellammare. Entry costs about €10. Segesta is about 75 km from Palermo, roughly an hour's drive, or you can take a long-distance bus. It is often combined with visits to Erice and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
Opening hours
About 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (earlier closing in winter)
Nearby sights
- Scopello
- Zingaro Nature Reserve
- Monreale Cathedral
- Capuchin Catacombs
- La Zisa
- Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina
- San Giovanni degli Eremiti
- Mercato del Capo