CHURCH OF SANTA MARIA DEI GRECI

On this site, the Greeks built a sanctuary. Some scholars believe it was dedicated to Jupiter, while others to the goddess Athena.

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TOUR OF SANTA MARIA DEI GRECI

From the Greek deities to the Christian faith. A place of worship with a history spanning thousands of years.

SANCTUARY OF ATHENA OR OF JUPITER POLIEUS?

Through the maze of narrow streets of medieval Agrigento, one reaches a place of worship with an evocative atmosphere, a singular monument of ancient origins: the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci, erected on the ruins of an ancient Greek temple from the 5th century BC.

On this site, the Greeks built a sanctuary. Some scholars believe it was dedicated to Jupiter Polieus, while others to the goddess Athena. To this day, there is no concrete evidence to confirm the exact identity. Some important details of the Greek temple – foundations, crepidoma, and columns – are still visible today and can be seen despite the transformations for the construction of the building dedicated to Christian rites.

The present-day structure, extraordinary in its kind, is the result of a rich history spanning thousands of years and a complex interweaving of art, culture, customs, traditions and architecture that have evolved over time. It embodies a multiplicity of religious, cultural, historical, and artistic identities.

It is a sacred space with centuries-old layers. The building and the surrounding area reflect a series of changes over the centuries, each of which has left its mark, giving rise to curious stories and events about the community and the people who have lived in this historical and vibrant neighborhood.

Parvis of the Church of Santa Maria dei Greci

Remains of the Greek temple

Monumental tomb

Details of the painted wooden ceiling

Scenes from the Childhood of the Virgin

Crepidoma and columns of the Greek temple

Madonna and Child Enthroned with Angels

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