Himera

The former Greek colony of Himera still stands in ruins to show that the millennia can't destroy history. Located near Campofelice and Termini Imerese, the city dates to 648 BC and held an elevated celebrated temple. There was a famous battle staged here between the territories of Siracusa and Akragas against the Carthaginians, a feud that would last for centuries and brought Hannibal, the great Carthaginian commander, to the battle front, after which the city was razed.

The remains of the grand temple are visible with its steps, the foundation and pieces of the columns. Stone foundations still mark the outlines of the town and buildings and the necropolis. You can see the artifacts recovered from the site along with interpretive displays in the Antiquarium. The city was noted for the coinage of silver, and was a port of importance with commerce between Etruria (Etruscan territory) and Spain.

The archeological area and museum are open from 9:00 AM til 7:00 PM. Closed Sunday and Monday, though it is open free every first Monday of each month from 9:00 AM til 2:00 PM.