Tag: segesta
-
Ancient Acoustics
From the top of Monte Barbaro, the seats of the amphitheater at Segesta face the sea and hills in the distance. The acoustics from the orchestra, where I’m standing, are outstanding, something I proved when I sang to everyone visiting the site with me that day!
-
Temple Interrupted
Thought to have been built by a Elymian-Sicilian architect who was influenced by Greek colleagues, this Doric temple at Segesta was constructed between 430 and 420 BC. Scholars believe that it never had a roof put on its 36 limestone columns–perhaps the reason why it is so well-preserved. Very little is understood about for what…
-
Black Madonna at Castellamare del Golfo
Tucked away near the castle that gives Castellamare del Golfo its name is the Chiesa di Maria SS del Rosario, which is believed to have been built in such a secluded corner during the Norman era, circa 1100, to hide it from invading pirates. Inside is this alter devoted to the Madonna dell’Agnuni, or Madonna…
-
Segesta: Enchanting Sicily, Day 2
The temple at Segesta has 36 very large, limestone Doric-style columns. Just like in 19th century paintings of Italy you’ve seen in your aunt’s living room, this temple gracefully sits in the midst of rolling hills. You might even see a shepherd and his sheep in its shadow! The temple is in excellent condition, considering…
-
Rolling Hills
The Sicilian countryside at Segesta.
-
Sicily Beats to Its Own Drum
Bass drummer, during the Festa del Santissimo Crocifisso in Calatafimi-Segesta, Sicily. The “Feast of the Holy Cross” takes place every 5 or 7 years, depending on the devotees’ resources. Processions featuring creative floats and music take place the first 3 days of May. The last Feast was held in 2012. Community-based wind and drum ensembles…
-
Temple of an Unknown Deity
Thought to have been built by a Elymian-Sicilian who was influenced by Greek architects, this Doric temple at Segesta was constructed between 430 and 420 BC. Scholars believe that it never had a roof put on its 36 limestone columns–perhaps the reason why it is so well-preserved. Very little is understood about for what the…
-
Spring Wildflowers
Spring wildflowers at Segesta.
-
Segesta Amphitheater
Marvels of ancient and modern engineering sit side by side in Sicily. At Segesta, from the 3rd century BC amphitheater you can see the 20th century elevated autostrada.