Agrigento center

Agrigento - Agrigento is a Sicilian provincial capital, rises 230 meters above sea level and has 60,000 inhabitants. Although famous worldwide for its Valley of the Temples, Agrigento boasts an interesting historic center. The main artery of the historic center is via Atenea, a pleasant street full of elegant shops, clubs, bars; narrow alleys with churches and historic buildings branch off from it.

Through stairways and intriguing alleys you reach the Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta but known as San Gerlando. Norman, from the 11th century, it has a splendid bell tower from which to enjoy a fantastic view of the valley below. The interior with three naves is truly valuable. In fact, the beautiful wooden roof is remarkable and the triumph of stuccoes and frescoes in Baroque style appears enchanting; relics of San Gerlando are preserved. The adjoining diocesan museum is interesting with treasures, works and testimonies of the cathedral: liturgical vestments, sacred texts, a medieval room, religious canvases and precious jewels. Another superb church is Santa Maria dei Greci, preceded by a small courtyard, stands on an ancient Doric temple from the 5th century BC. C. dedicated to Athena; it was a Greek Orthodox cathedral. Inside you can admire some Byzantine frescoes in a poor state of conservation, remains of the Norman ceiling and traces of original Greek columns. Next to it there is also an interesting museum.