Selinunte Archaeological Park: witness to Greek history in SIicily

Archaeological Park of Selinunte: its history and essence

The Archaeological Park of Selinunte is one of the largest in Europe, covering approximately 377 hectares and telling the ancient glory of Greek civilization. Founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BC, Selinunte rapidly developed into a magnificent city equipped with monumental temples and complex urban infrastructures, many of which are still admirably preserved today. Within the park, the imposing remnants of the past blend with breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, offering visitors a unique experience.

The Acropolis is the beating heart of ancient Selinunte, protected by imposing walls and characterized by structures such as the Sanctuary of Demeter Malophoros and the Temple of Hera Matronale. A short distance away are the Agora, the ancient social and political center, and the Eastern Hill, famous for its monumental temples such as Temple E. Recent discoveries, such as the artisan district and the kilns, testify to the city's economic complexity and offer a glimpse into the daily life of its ancient inhabitants.

Useful information about the Selinunte Archaeological Park

Opening Hours

• From October 29, 2023, to March 30, 2024: 09:00 – 17:00 (ticket office closes at 15:30).

• From March 31 to April 30, 2024: 09:00 – 19:00 (ticket office closes at 18:00).

• From May 1, 2024: 09:00 – 20:00 (ticket office closes at 19:00).

• Grifeo Castle: From 09:00 to 19:30 (closed on holidays).

• Cave di Cusa: From March 1 to October 31, open from 09:00 to 14:00. In the afternoon, access by reservation only.

• Museum of the Satyr: From 09:00 to 19:45 (ticket office closes at 19:15).

Type of pass:

1. Entrance to the Archaeological Park of Selinunte + Round-trip shuttle service

Prices: starting from € 21

2. Archaeological Park of Selinunte: Skip-the-line ticket + Round-trip shuttle service

Prices: starting from € 26.50  

Archaeological sites of Pantelleria: Free entry

If you would like to experience a 360-degree visit, you have the option of guided tours that provide historical and archaeological insights. Additionally, throughout the year, the park organizes cultural events and activities, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient history in a dynamic and vibrant context.

A visit to the Archaeological Park of Selinunte is not just a journey through history, but also a unique scenic experience. From every corner, breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding area unfold, making the walk among the temples and sanctuaries a complete experience for archaeology and nature enthusiasts.

Duration of the Visit

To fully appreciate the immense wealth of the park, it is recommended to dedicate at least half a day to the visit. For those who love walking, the walking path allows you to catch every detail and completely immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the place. Those who prefer a more comfortable option can choose the charming small train, which travels through the main areas of the park, offering a more relaxed tour, ideal for families or those with less time available.

For the first pass, included is:

• Access to the Archaeological Park of Selinunte.

• Round trip shuttle transport (duration 3 hours).

For the second pass, included is:

• Entrance ticket to the Archaeological Park of Selinunte with a "skip the line" ticket.

• Round trip shuttle transport.

For the first pass, the following is excluded:

• Guided tour

For the second pass, the following is excluded:

• Guided tour.

• Audio guide.

• Food and beverage.

• Pickup/delivery at the hotel.

How to Get to The Archaeological Park of Selinunte

The Archaeological Park of Selinunte is located about 13 km from Castelvetrano and less than a 20-minute drive. From Palermo, follow the A29 to Mazara del Vallo, then take the exit for Castelvetrano and continue to Marinella di Selinunte. From Trapani, exit at Castelvetrano after the interchange for Segesta.

FAQ About Selinunte's park visit 

1. Is Selinunte worth visiting?
Yes, Selinunte is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you have an interest in ancient history, archaeology, or simply enjoy exploring awe-inspiring ruins in a beautiful setting. Located on the southwestern coast of Sicily, Selinunte is one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of ancient Greek civilization. The site is less crowded than Sicily’s more famous Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which gives visitors the chance to explore at a more relaxed pace. Besides the stunning ruins, the park also provides breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea, adding a scenic backdrop to the historical experience.

2. How much time do you need in Selinunte?
To fully appreciate Selinunte, it’s ideal to set aside at least half a day (about 3-4 hours). The park is quite large, covering around 270 hectares, and there’s a fair amount of walking involved, as the main temples, the acropolis, and other ruins are spread out. If you’re a history enthusiast, you might even want a full day to explore in detail, especially if you plan to take a break for lunch or to visit the nearby beaches. For a quick visit, a couple of hours can cover the highlights, but you’d miss out on some of the smaller temples and less-explored areas.

3.What is archeological park?
An archaeological park is a designated area where significant ancient ruins, artifacts, and historical structures are preserved and made accessible to the public. These parks often contain the remains of ancient cities, temples, and other cultural landmarks, providing visitors with insights into historical civilizations. The Selinunte Archaeological Park, for example, is one of the largest in Europe, showcasing the remains of ancient Greek temples and city structures.

4. What is Selinunte famous for?
Selinunte is famous for its impressive ancient Greek ruins, particularly its temples, which date back to the 7th century BC. Once a thriving Greek colony, Selinunte was one of the most important cities in ancient Sicily before it was destroyed in a war with the Carthaginians. The site features several massive temples, some of which are partially reconstructed, like the Temple of Hera (also known as Temple E), which gives visitors an idea of the grandeur of these structures. Additionally, Selinunte’s acropolis, defensive walls, and residential areas provide a comprehensive picture of an ancient Greek city.

The unique combination of well-preserved ruins, scenic coastal location, and relatively uncrowded setting makes Selinunte a must-see for anyone visiting Sicily. It’s a place where you can walk through history and imagine what life was like in one of the Mediterranean’s great ancient cities.

5. How many temples are there in Selinunte?
Selinunte has the remains of at least eight main temples, identified by letters (such as Temple E, G, and C) because their original dedications are uncertain. These temples are primarily in two main areas: the Eastern Hill, where some of the best-preserved structures are located, and the Acropolis, which features more ruins and partial structures.

Tips for a Complete Visit of Selinunte Archaeological Park

The Park offers a well-defined route through seven areas rich in temples, necropolises, and sanctuaries. A great idea is to include a visit to the Cusa Quarries, located 11 km from Selinunte, where materials for the temples were extracted. Allow yourself time to explore the entire site, and if possible, opt for a guided tour to fully understand the historical and archaeological significance of Selinunte.

Special Events and Cultural Activities
Selinunte periodically hosts cultural events, shows, and concerts, which add a unique dimension to the visit. During the summer, for example, classical music, jazz, and theater performances under the stars are organized, allowing visitors to experience the park in a magical and captivating atmosphere. Checking the event calendar before your visit can provide the opportunity to participate in these special experiences.

Additionally, the park offers educational workshops for families and children, allowing them to learn about history in a fun and interactive way. These activities are ideal for those visiting Selinunte with young ones, making the site accessible and interesting for new generations.

What to Bring for the Visit
Given the expanse of the Archaeological Park of Selinunte and its sun-exposed location, it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and suitable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. In the summer, bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential to protect yourself from the Sicilian sun. It is also wise to have a water bottle, as refreshment areas are limited and scattered throughout the park.

During the cooler months, a light jacket and a scarf can be useful, especially early in the morning or at sunset when temperatures can drop. For photography enthusiasts, the park offers numerous scenic viewpoints that are worth capturing: it is recommended to bring a camera or a phone with a good camera to immortalize architectural details and breathtaking landscapes.

Where to Eat Nearby
After a morning or afternoon of exploration, visitors can stop to savor local specialties at the restaurants in Marinella di Selinunte, a location just a few minutes from the park. Here, numerous trattorias and restaurants offer typical Sicilian dishes, such as pasta with sardines, arancini, fresh fish, and desserts like cannoli and cassata.

For those who prefer a quick option or a snack, some bars and cafés in the area offer light alternatives like sandwiches, focaccia, and refreshing drinks. Alternatively, many families choose to bring a packed lunch to enjoy in one of the green spaces around the park, perfect for a break outdoors and to relax surrounded by Sicilian nature.