Discover Ancient Sicily on Your Holidays

One of the most archeologically rich places in Europe is undoubtedly Sicily. Villas available to rent make the ideal accommodation option for the discerning visitor wanting to explore the classical sites of the island, and there are excellent companies offering a whole range of holidays in Sicily. Villas are the accommodation option of choice and, as they are located all over the island, no matter where you want to be, there will be one for you.

Top Classical Attractions

Despite not being the prettiest of the Sicilian cities, Agrigento is home to one of the world’s most incredible archaeological wonders, The Valley of The Temples. With eight temples built around two thousand five hundred years ago, the site was strategically chosen because of its prominent position on top of a crest to the south of the modern day city. Spend some time exploring the temples, marvelling at the awesome architecture and admiring the stunning views of the coastline that cannot fail to impress.

Not far inland from Agrigento are the recently discovered mosaics of Villa Romana di Casale, one of the most wondrous sites in Sicily. Villas dating from the Roman period have largely been left to ruin but this one is certainly one of the best preserved in the Roman world, offering the visitor a different classical experience. The unique collection of three thousand five hundred square metres of mosaics was buried for centuries before being unearthed to reveal most of the display in tact. With some wonderful depictions of life as it was during the Roman occupation, the mosaics include scenes of hunting, feasting and frolicking. Most likely created by African craftsmen, the mosaics were the proud possession of an affluent individual whose identity is much debated.

As you drive along the motorway from the vibrant capital city of Palermo towards the west of the island, you will not fail to notice the incredibly elegant Temple of Segesta that stands tall and domineering atop a hill, exuding a beauty rivaled by no other. The Elymians, who definitely had an eye for position when deciding where to build their temples, built this magnificent Doric structure. With additional features added by the Greeks, the temple is sixty-one metres long and twenty-six metres wide. The lack of roof has been attributed to the inability to finish the temple because of an attack on the settlement, but the temple largely remains intact and is a wonderful place to visit.

Close by is the stunning semicircular theatre that was built around the same time. The views from this theatre would perhaps almost have distracted from the performance, with the breathtaking natural panorama a stunning backdrop. Still used today, the theatre hosts many concerts and other events throughout the summer months.

If you want to explore the classical sites of Sicily, villas that are handpicked for their convenience and quality are great accommodation options. Choose one close to the attractions you want to see and you will have a great base from which to explore.

Looking for your perfect home away from home in Italy? Mark Slaviero is a Director of Holiday Homes in Italy, a company specialising in finding the holiday home, villa or apartment of your dreams. For the ideal Sicily villas and accommodation in Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Lakes, ski resorts and more, we offer the best in every region.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.