Megara Hyblaea
Archaeological site
Megara Hyblaea
Ancient Greek settlement
Located in the industrial area between Syracuse and Catania are the Doric ruins of Megara Iblea. You can reach them via the SS114 in the industrial area on the Gulf of Augusta. The ancient Megara Hyblaea was probably the oldest Doric colony in Sicily. Settlers from Megara, near Athens, settled here in 728 B.C. The Greek town is also significant because the Greek town of Selinunte was founded from here. Moreover Megara Hyblaea is considered the birthplace of the Greek playwright Epicharmos. In the 5th Century, the city was conquered by Gelo and the population was sold into slavery. The resurgent smaller successor settlement was eventually completely abandoned by the Romans.
Excavations in Megara Hyblaea
From 1872 to 1889 French archaeologists uncovered the archaic city in Megara Iblea. They found a wall ring, two archaic temples, a port facility and two cemeteries. It was only in the 1950s, when the more recent Hellenistic settlement was uncovered. Next to a wall ring, a small temple Athena and many ceramics were found here. The finds are on display in the small Antiquarium at the sea and in the Archaeological Museum in Syracuse. The seated goddess of fertility who is breastfeeding two babies is also noteworthy.
Entrance
€ 4,-
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