Monday, October 10, 2011

Italy voyage Tips: Agrigento and Agropoli

Agrigento is comprised of two cut off parts. The first part is the city itself, with its typical narrow, winding streets, old stone houses and countless petite market and bars. The city was built on a steep hill and its architecture is mostly medieval. The charming alleys will take you up to the very top of the city, to a majestic cathedral built by the Normans. There is a long terrace nearby the cathedral that offers striking views of the city and of the nearby seaside.

The second part of the city is called Valle dei templi - the Valley of Temples. It is a large area with an excavation site full of unique remains of old temples. There are so many. For example, the Temple of Heracles, of Goddess Demetra, of Hefaistos, and the Temple of Concord. But the most celebrated temple in the Valley is the Temple of Zeus. This was supposed to be the biggest temple of all times but it was never finished. But still, you can admire the Atlantes - statues of muscular men used as pillars which are typical for Greek architecture. It's also foremost to say that all the temples in this area belong to Unesco heritage.

MISSIONS TRIPS TO AFRICA

Once you're there, don't forget to visit the nearby city of Porto Empedocle. This charming seaside city has beautiful, long sand beaches that originate an extraordinary coast. Porto Empedocle is striking especially at night, and it's a excellent place for a peaceful seaside vacation.

Agropoli is a small, yet intelligent city situated about 26 miles south of Salerno. Is has a gorgeous historical town with charming houses and narrow streets, and also a contemporary part with hotels and traveler resorts. You shouldn't miss its yacht port and miles of short and long sandy beaches divided by cliffs.

In 19th century, Agropoli has wide beyond its medieval city walls. However, the old part of the city with its 17th century gate remained intact. Above the city, on the top of a rock, rises a castle from the 6th century that stands on the foundations of a Byzantine fortress. In the summer, it hosts concerts, theater plays and other events.

If you walk west of the contemporary port, you can visit St. Francis's watchtower from 16th century and the remains of an old monastery of the same name.

Agropoli is an ideal base to witness the region of Campania. If you love hiking, don't forget to witness Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano, a gorgeous natural park. If you prefer to stay in the city, Agropoli is the excellent place to learn Italian, go yachting and diving, or to take boat trips that will show you the gems of the coast.

Italy voyage Tips: Agrigento and Agropoli

MISSIONS TRIPS TO AFRICA

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