Valle dei Templi excavations reveal Roman and Christian remains

Archaeological excavations at the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento have revealed significant remains from the Roman and early Christian eras. Recent work conducted by the Scuola Normale Superiore has uncovered 1st-century BCE frescoes, architectural elements, and stuccoes. These findings are located near the ancient ekklesiasterion and likely belong to a large peristyle of a Roman-era domus or a monumental portico.

The discoveries highlight the transition of the site from Greek to Roman and eventually Christian civilization. Excavations have identified a Roman-era home that underwent ritual refoundation, as well as evidence of a thermal complex donated by a politician named Martinianos. Furthermore, researchers have found traces of early Christian presence, including a small basilica and a martirion—a site for relics—situated within former pagan structures.

These findings are part of an extensive series of excavation campaigns led by the Archaeological Park under the direction of Roberto Sciarratta, involving various Italian and international universities.