As we travel along the southwest coast of Sicily we arrive at the marvelous city of Agrigento (Akragas in Greek), home to the vast 5th century BCE Greek ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded by Greek colonists, it was the 3rd largest city in Ancient Greece during the Magna Graecia (golden age of Greece). Agrigento was neutral in the war between Athens and Syracuse in 413 BCE but was attacked and besieged for seven months and destroyed by the Carthaginians (from modern day Tunisia) in 406 BCE. Again it was destroyed by the Romans in the 2nd Century BCE but they rebuilt the city. Pindar wrote “Akragas, the most beautiful city mortals had ever built.”
On the edge of the city we are treated to a home hosted lunch with a view of the Mediterranean and a family history of ancient Italian cart making. The vividly decorated two wheeled carts were drawn by donkeys or horses. They became widely used in the early 1800’s for transporting goods and people. Sicilian carts are known for their elaborate decorations.
Traveling along the coast bunkers from WW II are visible among the vineyards and groves plus large vegetable farms. Our guide, Diana explains that petrochemical plants that we also view have had deleterious effects on health of these Sicilians.
Our home for only one night is an isolated Agriturismo Vecchia Masseria which has beautiful views, gourmet food and a great bar and pool. Highly recommended!
