4.7
(175)
2,407
hikers
Sacred Way Trail
01:18
4.81km
60m
Hiking
The Sacred Way Trail invites you on an easy hike through an ancient landscape, where history comes alive with every step. You will pass impressive ruins, including the grand Temple of Juno and the majestic Temple of Hercules, offering a direct connection to past civilizations. This route covers 3.0 miles (4.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 191 feet (58 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete.
To access the trail, make your way to the Archaeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily. Parking is readily available at the park entrance, providing convenient access to the trailhead. Before you go, remember to consult the park's official website for current opening hours and any applicable entrance fees.
This trail is a central part of the Archaeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples, offering a unique opportunity to explore a significant historical site. As you hike, you will experience the ancient Via Sacra and the Necropolis, gaining insight into the daily lives and beliefs of those who walked here long ago. The route also provides views of the Temple of Concordia, adding to the rich historical tapestry of your journey.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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333 m
Temple of Juno, Valley of the Temples
Highlight • Historical Site
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480 m
Via Sacra and Necropolis, Valley of the Temples
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
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1.21 km
View of the Temple of Concordia
Highlight • Historical Site
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1.69 km
Temple of Hercules
Highlight • Historical Site
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1.89 km
Temple of Olympian Zeus (Tempio di Giove Olimpico)
Highlight • Historical Site
According to the historian Diodorus Siculus, construction began immediately following the battle of Himera, the great victory of the Greek cities of Sicily over the Carthaginians, in 480 BC. Again, according to the historian, the construction of the temple was never completed, because it still had no roof at the time of the conquest of the city of Akragas by the Carthaginians in 406 BC.
The very original architectural building was placed on a gigantic rectangular platform, on which stood a base of five steps, the last of which was twice as high as the others, to form a sort of podium and isolate the temple from the surrounding environment .
The temple was enclosed by a wall enclosure, characterized on the outside by seven semi-columns of the Doric order on the short sides and fourteen on the long sides; to these corresponded, inside, as many rectangular semi-pillars. The hypothetical height of the semi-columns has been estimated at more than eighteen metres.
Outside, colossal figures of Giants (the Telamons), about eight meters high and caught in the act of supporting the entablature of the temple with the strength of their arms, were placed in the spaces between the semi-columns on shelves about eleven meters high.
Inside this very tall building - very similar to a fence - there was a completely original cell, as it had no roof, probably interpreted by Diodorus Siculus as a sign of the incompleteness of the construction. The coverage, in fact, was probably limited to the corridors around the cell.
The fronts were decorated to the east with sculptures depicting a struggle between the gods and the Giants (Gigantomachia) and to the west with the taking of Troy (Iliupersis).
The remains of the monumental rectangular altar are visible a short distance from the eastern front of the temple.
Source: parcodellavalledeitempli.it
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2.56 km
Temple of the Dioscuri (Valley of the Temples)
Highlight • Historical Site
The northernmost part of our sanctuary, west of the gate, is characterized by cult buildings, fences and numerous altars, built during the sixth century BC.
In the northernmost part, a small temple with three rooms can be seen, flanked on one side by a room with a square altar and on the other by a room with a circular altar and central opening.
In the middle area, there is a small temple with a single room accessible from the east side, next to which there is a small temple with three rooms, open to the north.
To the west of these buildings, there are two other small temples with an entrance hall, cell and a room reserved for the officiants of the cult: the northernmost one has a square altar in front of the entrance door and a well outside the south side.
Between these two small temples there is a large circular altar, with an internal cavity, and a square altar.
In the southernmost area of this area, there is the so-called temple of the Dioscuri, today one of the most representative ruins of the Valley of the Temples, the result of the partial reconstruction (the four columns on the north-west side), carried out by the Commission of Antiquities of the Sicily between 1836 and 1852, using architectural elements of various periods and origins.
This is the foundation of a Doric temple, datable to the second half of the 5th century BC, with six columns on the short sides and thirteen on the long ones, and divided inside into an entrance hall, a cell and a rear compartment.
The traditional denomination of the temple of the Dioscuri is only conventional and derives from the reference to a passage by the Greek poet Pindar, who refers - with regard to Akragas - to a cult and a festival in honor of the Dioscuri.
It is much more probable that the temple was dedicated to Demeter and Persephone, the titular divinities of the entire sacred area.
Source: parcodellavalledeitempli.it
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2.69 km
Sanctuary of the Chthonic Deities and Temple of the Dioscuri
Highlight • Historical Site
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4.81 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.12 km
1.67 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.79 km
1.19 km
473 m
349 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (110 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
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Tuesday 26 May
28°C
20°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike the Sacred Way Trail?
The Sacred Way Trail is an easy hike, approximately 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) long. Most hikers complete it in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, allowing time to appreciate the historical sites along the way.
What is the difficulty level of this trail?
This trail is rated as easy. With minimal elevation gain (around 58 meters), it's suitable for most fitness levels, including families and beginner hikers.
Is the Sacred Way Trail a loop or out-and-back?
The Sacred Way Trail is designed as a linear route that guides you through the heart of the Valley of the Temples. While not a strict loop, you can easily retrace your steps or explore other paths within the archaeological park.
Where does the trail start and where can I park?
The Sacred Way Trail is located within the Archaeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily. There are designated parking areas near the main entrances to the park. It's advisable to check the official park website for the most current information on access points and parking facilities.
What historical sites and viewpoints can I see along the route?
The trail is rich with ancient history and offers stunning views. You'll encounter magnificent structures such as the Temple of Juno, the Via Sacra and Necropolis, and the impressive Temple of Hercules. Don't miss the View of the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Temple of the Dioscuri.
What is the best time of year to visit the Sacred Way Trail?
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally the best times to visit. The weather is pleasant for hiking, and the crowds are typically smaller than in the peak summer months. Summer can be very hot, so if visiting then, start early in the morning.
Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for the Valley of the Temples?
Yes, the Sacred Way Trail is located within the Archaeological and Landscape Park of the Valley of the Temples, which requires an entrance ticket. You will need to purchase a ticket to access the park and the trail. Check the official park website for current pricing and opening hours.
Is the Sacred Way Trail dog-friendly?
Regulations regarding pets within the Archaeological Park can vary. It's best to check the official website of the Valley of the Temples or contact them directly to confirm their current policy on bringing dogs.
What should I pack for a hike on this trail in summer?
Given the historical nature and potential heat, especially in summer, pack light. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water. There are limited shaded areas, so sun protection is crucial.
Are there cafes or facilities near the trail?
As the trail is within a major archaeological park, you will find visitor facilities, including cafes, restrooms, and gift shops, near the main entrances and at various points within the park. These provide opportunities for refreshments and breaks.
What makes this trail 'sacred'?
The trail is named the 'Sacred Way' (Via Sacra) because it historically connected the ancient Greek temples and sanctuaries within the Valley of the Temples. It was the processional route used for religious ceremonies and rituals, making it a path of profound spiritual and historical significance.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
A beautiful tour through the Valley of the Temples, featuring various gardens, villas, ancient olive trees, and impressive excavations spanning over 2,500 years of history. Highly recommended. We finished with our first taste of Sicilian gelato! 👍 Valley of the Temples - UNESCO World Heritage Site Agrigento - Sicily, History, Culture, Archaeology, Gastronomy, Tourism, Hotels, Restaurants, Excursions, Vacation https://share.google/A9d30F3IRTpMwb7Oi
We set off in the morning from the car park at Porta V at the lower end of the Valley of the Temples. We were the only ones there at that time and had the "valley" (which isn't actually a valley) to ourselves up to the upper end. Only then did a tour group arrive. The round trip makes it easy to add a few other loops. We spent the night in the car park with our RV for €10. Alternatively, you can use the taxi service for €3/person and have it take you to the upper entrance and then walk down through the park from there. Entry €17/person
Excursion into the past Very impressive complex with temples and a garden from around 500 years before Christ, when the Greeks settled Sicily. https://www.parcovalledeitempli.it/
Tip: Pleasant temperatures and few tourists in November!
Our castle is not that old, but it is more beautiful🏰😜
Should be seen during a stay in Sicily.
The entrance fee is 17 € but it is really worth seeing 😍
Every visitor to Sicily should definitely visit and take away this piece of cultural history. Interestingly, the world heritage site is referred to as the Valley of the Temples, although contrary to the topography found, the temples are located on a protruding ridge. It goes down steeply on all sides and you have a magnificent view of the sea, Agrigento and the surrounding villages. The temples follow one another in quick succession and are lined up like a string of pearls and some are surprisingly well preserved. It is best to visit early in the morning, as it is quite empty and quiet here.