(Newswire.net — March 5, 2019) — Selinunte is located on the coastal region of south-west Sicily and is one of the largest Sicilian archeological sites. The place is much like a time capsule to the past since it has been unaffected by time and modernization ever since the settlement of Selinus, an ancient town that was active two thousand five hundred years ago. Despite being well-preserved and intact, the history of Selinunte is tragic – the inhabitants of Selinus were enslaved and slaughtered by Carthaginian armies who invaded the city in the later portion of the 5th century. The buildings and remains of the civilization were discovered buried under layers of earth accumulated over the years by windblown sand. It is the only Greek city wherein the entire metropolis stands untouched by the ravages of time, thereby offering a unique insight into ancient Greece.
Places To Visit in (or around) Selinunte
With the current excavations, there are various places that are worth visiting if you happen to be in Selinunte. Visiting Selinunte can be a learning experience where you can observe the city organization including the industrial zones. This experience gets further accentuated when you opt to reside in the lavish villas in Selinunte. To make the most of your trip to Selinunte, do visit the following locations:
The Archaeological Park (Parco Archeologico Selinunte)
Spanning over 270 hectares, the Selinunte Archaeological Park covers the largest area when compared to any archaeological park in Europe. It contains a vast repository of archaeological artifacts and items dating back over millennia. Eight well-known Temples in good conditions can be discovered around the Archaeological Park. The temples E (temple of Hera) and F are in the best-preserved state. However, the temple G also bears a charm with its single upright column. Temple F is said to be the oldest, while Temple G is the largest of them all.
Additionally, one may also stumble upon various necropolis, caves, and sanctuaries. The ancient Acropolis (central citadel) towering over the majestic landscape is yet another highlight of the Archaeological Park. Walking past the Acropoli, one can make their way towards Santuario Della Malaphorus – a region of sacred significance. It is highly recommended to dedicate at least three to four hours to cover all the major sites at the Selinunte Archaeological Park.
The Belice Natural Reserve (Riserva Naturale del Foce del Belice)
To the east of Selinunte where the Belice river flows into the Mediterranean Sea stands the Belice Natural Reserve. It comprises of a sandy beach stretching over 3 kilometers and supporting a thriving ecosystem. Established in 1984, the Belice Natural Reserve is a travel destination all year ‘round. Beach lovers and swimmers will enjoy the abundance of sand and clear waters. The depression in the dunes creates small pockets of salt water pools after the tides are high.
Furthermore, one can observe the vegetation prospering on the sandy, saline terrain. This flora includes wild asparagus, sea rockets, lentisk, tamarisk, and sea daffodils. In the delta region where the soil is more fertile, tall bull rushes, palms, and weed offer green coverage to the area. As for the fauna, the loggerhead sea turtles can be seen during the season when they are washed on the shore to lay their eggs. The Belice Nature Reserve is the ideal place for those wishing to connect with nature.
Marinella di Selinunte
Marinella is a seaside village along the edge of the Selinunte Archaeological Park. Since the economy of the village is based on tourism, it has adapted to the tastes of the visitors. In contrast to the historic background offered by the Archaeological Park, Marinella di Selinunte is a rather modern hamlet. Many tourists prefer putting up here on overnight trips.
In addition to tourism, another prominent economic activity includes fishing. The local fish preparations are quite a hit amongst the visitors. La Pineta is the main attraction due to its delicious food and romantic setting against a gorgeous backdrop. The beachside restaurant is very famous for its seafood preparations, especially the fish. Lido Zabbara is another Mediterranean beach restaurant appealing to a younger crowd.
Scalo Di Bruca al Porto
Scalo di Bruca al Porto is located in the heart of Marinella di Selinunte and is one of the busiest beaches in Sicily. The influx of tourists can be attributed to its location and accessibility by travelers. Scalo Di Bruca can be divided into two sections by the marina. The section on the left side is dedicated to adventure seekers who wish to indulge in water activities and sports such as sailboat racing, beach soccer, and beach volleyball. On the other hand, the right side portion is suited for individuals who wish to relax on the beach. When hungry, you may explore a number of local eateries and shacks that pepper the region.
Cave di Cusa
Located about 13 kilometers from the Archaeological Park, the Cave di Cusa is the site from where the raw material for erecting the temples was extracted. These limestone quarries are also called Rocche di Cusa.
The quarries still bear the signs of sudden abandonment in the middle of extraction that it experienced when the Carthaginians attacked Selinunte. Many half-cut and half carved columns still remain attached to their mother stones, while others lay collapsed intro anonymity. It is as though time came to a standstill when the news of the attack arrived. At present, the flowers that blossom around Cave di Cusa in Spring offer a picturesque view of the location. It is a perfect location for a picnic or you can even check out the bed and breakfast dotting the area.
Places to Stay in Selinunte
Renting out a villa may be the best way to make the best of your trip. Following are some of the best options available in Selinunte:
Casa Melograno
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Guests: 6-7
Minimum Stay: One week
Selinunte Retreat
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
Guests: 8
Minimum Stay: One week
Villa Orangerie
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Guests: 6
Minimum Stay: One week
Casa Melograno II
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
Guests: 4
Minimum Stay: One week
Villa Magnolia
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Guests: 4
Minimum Stay: One week
Casa Palmi
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
Guests: 5
Minimum Stay: One week
Casa Edo
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Guests: 6
Minimum Stay: One week
Villa Afrodite
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 2
Guests: 6
Minimum Stay: One week