Segesta in Sicily
Segesta is the name of one of the largest cities of people Elymian, whose nation is one of the three, which are considered indigenous to Sicily. They lived in western Sicily during the Bronze Age and classical antiquity. Today these lands are known as Province Trapani and the Comune of Calatafimi-Segesta. The ancient city of Segesta the place of the old Greek colony, whose architecture has managed to preserve much of its appearance until today.
The complex of Segesta is remarkable mostly by ancient Doric temple, situated on a hill and the amphitheater, which today are an obligatory stop on any tourist route, passing through western Sicily. Striking combination of historical monuments and stunning natural scenery along the beautiful coast of Sicily create all prerequisites for a memorable trip.
At hill Segesta we can see Doric temple, which is one of the clearest examples of Hellenic culture in these lands. The temple was built sometime in the 5th century BC It is amazing how the right has managed to keep to such a degree after more than two millennia and a half. In comparison with Segesta ancient ruins in the nearby Agrigento literally pale in comparison. The temple has 6 × 14 columns that stand on the basis of dimensions 21 × 56 meters and look like they have just been built. The platform of the Temple Segesta is about three steps higher.
There are several things that indicate that the Doric temple and was never completed. Its columns have not folded, as should normally have, considering that this is a Doric temple.
Furthermore, the columns still finish bottom with type substrates, which were usually used to raise the pillars to the desired location, but then are removed. Temple in Segesta has no sanctuary, but for its incompleteness, and suggests a lack of roof.
Amphitheater Segesta is slightly more unpopular than the Doric colonnade at the top. Theater-style seating for the audience is built on the hill known as Monte Bàrbaro, 305 meters above sea level. Even today this part of Segesta continues to be used for its intended purpose, namely it is used as a theater.
Every summer there are various theatrical plays in which actors perform contemporary classical Greek dramas and comedies. In the area of ancient Segesta can be seen some remains of medieval buildings, such as the ruins of a Norman fortress.
From the top of the hill Segesta is a magnificent view of the valley and the bay Castellamare. The beautiful ancient city has helped its residents to have control of several main roads between the north coast and inland areas.
