The best preserved ancient sites in Sicily

Sicily, with its strategic location in the Mediterranean, has numerous well preserved ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine historical sites / ruins. The island’s Roman heritage is showcased through a variety of well-preserved ancient ruins, including theaters, luxurious villas, and mosaics.

Below follow the best preserved sites found. Each site in Sicily will be shortly introduced.

For a visual overview of all Roman ruins in Sicily please consult our Roman sites map above.

For an introduction to the maps click here.

Name	Category	Score
Temple of Athena in Syracuse	Roman temples	4,8
Villa Romana del Casale	Roman villa	4,7
Parco Archeologico di Segesta / Segesta ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,6
Archaeological Museum of Centuripe	Roman / ancient history museum	4,6
Teatro Antico di Taormina / Taormina Roman theater	Roman theaters	4,6
Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas	Roman / ancient history museum	4,5
Parco Archeologico di Tindari / Tindari ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,4
Teatro Romano di Catania / Catania Roman theater	Roman theaters	4,4
Odeon Taormina	Roman theaters	4,4
Parco Archeologico di Lilibeo / Lilibeo ancient ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,3
Archeological Area Solunto / Solunto ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,3
Neapolis Archaeological Park	Roman cities / areas	4,3
Museo archeologico Gabriele Judica	Roman / ancient history museum	4,3
Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi	Roman / ancient history museum	4,3
Area Archeologica del Monte Iato / Monte Lato ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,2
Area archeologica di Morgantina / Morgantina ruins	Roman cities / areas	4,2
Villa Romana di Patti	Roman villa	4,0
Villa Romana	Roman villa	3,8
Villa Romana del Tellaro	Roman villa	3,8
Villa Romana Terme Vigliatore Messina	Roman villa	3,8

Detailed description of all Roman ruins in Sicily

Cities and areas:

1: Parco Archeologico di Lilibeo / Lilibeo ancient ruins

Located in Marsala, Sicily, the Parco Archeologico di Lilibeo encompasses the ruins of the ancient city of Lilybaeum, a Phoenician and later Roman settlement.

Founded in the 8th century BC, the city later became an important Carthaginian port. Following the Roman conquest in 241 BC, Marsala quickly became one of the most important cities in Roman Sicily and flourished as a trade center, with its strategic location enhancing its importance.

The city’s ruins reflect this varied history. Remnants include fragments of the Punic and Roman walls. Roman remains include a former insula, a house. Large parts of the site still remain to be excavated.

The Marsala Archaeological Museum contains artifacts from Phoenician through Roman to medieval times.

2: Parco Archeologico di Segesta / Segesta ruins

Segesta is located in the western part of Sicily. It had early Greek influence but was not a Greek colony. By the 5th century BC, as an independent city, it was frequently at odds with the neighboring city of Selinunte and sought Athenian help during the Peloponnesian War. The Carthaginians later supported Segesta against its enemies but eventually controlled it after 410 BC. In the 3rd century BC, Segesta sided with Rome against Carthage, and after the fall of Carthage, it enjoyed favorable treatment from the Romans.

Located on Monte Bàrbaro at around 300 meters above sea level, Segesta enjoyed a strategically advantageous position. The site’s natural defenses included steep slopes on several sides and fortifications on the gentler inclines.

From its elevated position, the city overlooked the valley leading to the Gulf of Castellamare and managed crucial routes connecting the coastal and inland regions.

Details about the city’s design are sparse, but aerial surveys hint at a systematic urban layout. Terraces were incorporated to accommodate the hilly terrain.

Excavations have shown that the site was later inhabited by a Muslim community during the Norman era. This mosque was likely dismantled when a new Christian overlord took control in the early 13th century. By the middle of the 13th century, the city had been deserted.

Among the notable remains near the old city is a well-preserved Doric temple. This structure, probably erected in the 420s BC, features six by fourteen columns. The temple’s base spans 21 by 56 meters and rests on a three-step platform. It remains unfinished due to interruptions from the conflict with Selinunte. Even after Carthage took over, the temple remained unfinished.

3: Area Archeologica del Monte Iato / Monte Iato ruins

Nestled in the Sicilian hills near Palermo (On the west side of the map), the site was largely abandoned in the first century CE, perhaps due to earthquakes although this is mostly based on guesswork. Evidence suggests the population decline was gradual with some structures already being abandoned in the first century BC. Founded by the indigenous population of Sicily, in the 7th century BC the city came into contact with the Greeks. Subsequently, a small Greek population settled in the city, as a temple dedicated to Greek Goddess Aphrodite suggests. A small Muslim rebel group inhabited the area in the 13th century and was later expelled leading to the final abandonment of the site.

The Monte Iato site includes a theater that could accommodate around 4500 people and an unearthed residential quarter is one of the largest found of hellenic times. Remains of the agora (market place) can be seen as well as two council chambers. These were all build during the hellenic era (4th – 2nd century BC) as the city was gradually developed in Greek style.

4: Archeological Area Solunto / Solunto ruins

Solunto, located near Palermo, Sicily, was a Phoenician, Greek and later Roman city. It was initially founded by Phoenicians in the 8th century BC. It was one of the 3 key cities of the Carthagians in Sicily.

This early settlement was part of a network of Phoenician trading posts, which included cities like Motya and Panormus, present-day Palermo. Carthage gradually extended its influence over Sicily leading to increasing tensions with Greek settlers on the island.

The exact site of early Soluntum remains unknown. Archaeological digs at the current location of Soluntum have not uncovered remains from its archaic period. Recent finds do suggest this area was the location of the original settlement, with artifacts dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC.

In 409 BC, Carthage launched a campaign in Sicily, seizing several Greek cities such as Selinus and Agrigentum. They later besieged Syracuse in 398 BC, but the Greek city, reclaiming much territory. Soluntum remained loyal to Carthage during this period. However, it was betrayed and subsequently destroyed in 396 BC. The city was rebuilt by the Carthagians in the mid-4th century BC atop Monte Catalfano. Soluntum surrendered following defeats in the first Punic wars against Rome.

Under Roman rule the city experienced significant growth, especially in the 2nd and 1st centuries BC. A theatre, a stoa, and a grand statue of Zeus/Baal was constructed. The 1st century BC saw the addition of baths and the creation of elaborate wall paintings in private homes.

The city’s elevated position on Monte Catalfano offered strong defenses but complicated supply lines. After the Roman conquest, many mountain settlements were abandoned in favor of coastal living, but Soluntum remained populated by affluent residents.

By the 1st century AD, Soluntum began to decline. The city saw little new construction, though baths were renovated, and possibly new ones were added near the Agora. An inscription honoring Fulvia Plautilla, wife of Emperor Caracalla, survives from this period. The city eventually fell into abandonment, likely due to an earthquake or landslide.

Greek inscriptions from Soluntum highlight its prominent citizens. One inscription credits Antallus, from the Ornichi family, with funding the paving of the main street. Another mentions Sextus Peduceus, governor of Sicily from 76 to 75 BC.

On the site a number of structures can be found including ancient walls, a grid of streets, and at least 6 residential houses. It also includes public buildings, including a forum, theatre, several temples and thermal baths.

5: Area archeologica di Morgantina / Morgantina ruins

Morgantina is situated in central Sicily. The city does not feature often in the sources, but was likely founded in the 6th century BCE by the local population of Sicily. The area was partly abandoned in the late 5th century. The city switched allegiance from Rome to Carthage during the first Punic wars, but was captured in 311 BC by the Romans.

It later fell under control of Syracuse (Now a Roman client state, Syracuse fell under the sway of the Roman Empire after the first Punic war), which redeveloped the settlement in the 3rd century BCE. Almost all buildings date from this era.

Emperor August reorganised the province of Sicily and the city was abandoned in the first century as a result.

The site includes a council hall and early Roman baths from the 3rd century BCE. One of the earliest dome and vaulted structured has been uncovered here. The site also contains a large residential complex. A theatre, agora and remains of a temple complement the site.

The newly established archaeological museum of Aidone houses most of the finds from the ruins of Morgantina.

6: Parco Archeologico di Tindari / Tindari (Tyndaris) ruins

Located in northeastern Sicily the ancient city of Tyndaris was founded by the Greeks and later developed by the Romans. Like most ancient cities in Sicily, was strategically positioned on a prominent hill overlooking the sea, making it a noteworthy visit. The site commanded views of Mount Etna and the Lipari Islands. Founded in the 4th century BCE, it was one of the last Greek colonies in Sicily. Tyndaris quickly grew to a significant city with about 5,000 inhabitants.

During the First Punic War, Tyndaris was initially allied with Carthage. After the Carthagian loss at the battle of Panormus in 254 BCE the city ousted its Carthagian garrison. Once freed from Carthaginian control, Tyndaris joined Rome.

Under Roman rule, Tyndaris thrived and was noted for its contributions. Cicero praised its nobility and loyalty. The city supplied naval forces to Scipio Africanus the Younger. Tyndaris was honored by the Roman Senate with offerings to the temple of Venus at Eryx.

The abandoned of the city is not recorded in the sources. A calamity is described where part of the city was swallowed by the sea as result of an earthquake somewhere in the first century CE. However, the city is still mentioned in a fourth century source, so the earthquake must have led to some decline but not its total abandonment.

Its remains include a grid layout of streets with a monumental gateway, a theatre and several Roman tombs. Besides, a number of other remains have been uncovered their purpose cannot be attributed with certainty.

7: Neapolis Archaeological Park (Syracuse)

Located in Syracuse, Sicily, the Neapolis Archaeological Park is one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. It includes the ruins of a large Greek city that was later incorporated into the Roman Empire.

Syracuse was founded by Greek colonists in the 8th century BCE . The fifth century saw large scale developments of the city under its ruler Gelo. Gelo relocated many inhabitants from Gela, Kamarina, and Megara to Syracuse, expanding its boundaries with new districts. This period saw significant cultural development, including the construction of a theatre. By 415 BCE, Syracuse’s population was comparable to Athens. Gelo’s successor, Hiero, continued to enhance the city’s reputation, winning praise from poets and securing victories against the Etruscans. Syracuse played a strategic role in the conflict with Athens, aiding the Spartans in their struggle.

In the early 4th century BCE, Dionysius the Elder became a prominent figure, strengthening Syracuse’s defenses and engaging in wars against Carthage. His reign saw the expansion of Syracuse’s territories and the construction of a vast fortress and lengthy city walls. Despite various conflicts, including a devastating siege by Carthaginians, Syracuse flourished under his rule.

Under Hiero II, Syracuse entered a golden age of peace and prosperity. The city saw advancements in culture, including the works of Archimedes and Theocritus. Hiero’s successor, Hieronymus, allied with Carthage in the second Punic war, leading to a protracted Roman siege. Syracuse held out but fell in 212 BCE after internal betrayal and was plundered.

In Roman times, Syracuse retained its significance as the capital of Sicily and a major port. The spread of Christianity in the city was marked by the establishment of catacombs, the second largest after the ones in Rome. After periods of Vandal and Ostrogothic rule, Syracuse was reconquered by the Byzantine Empire under Belisarius in 535 CE. In the 7th century it briefly served as the Byzantine capital before losing prominence after the assassination of Emperor Constans II. The city was captured by Muslim forces in the 9th century and slipped permanently from Roman / Byzantine control.

The park offers a rich look at Greek and Roman history in a single location. The Roman amphitheatre, Greek theater, remains of the city walls, a temple dedicated to Apollo and several tombs remain.

Roman / ancient history museums:

8. Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas

Located in Palermo, Sicily, the Regional Archaeological Museum Antonio Salinas is known for its extensive collection of artifacts from Sicily’s ancient Greek, Roman, and Phoenician civilizations. The museum showcases a diverse array of items, including mosaics, statues, and ceramics, with notable pieces such as the renowned “Apollo of the Palatine.” Its exhibits also highlight the island’s historical transitions, from Greek colonization to Roman domination.

Established in the 19th century, the museum plays a critical role in preserving and interpreting Sicily’s rich archaeological heritage. Its collection provides valuable insights into the region’s ancient cultures and their contributions to the broader Mediterranean world.

9. Archaeological Museum of Centuripe

Situated in Centuripe, Sicily, this museum is dedicated to the ancient city of Centuripe. The museum’s exhibits include floor mosaics that once adorned Roman villas, showcasing intricate designs and mythological themes. It also houses a range of artifacts from daily life in ancient Centuripe, including pottery and sculptures.

10. Museo archeologico Gabriele Judica

Located in Lentini, Sicily, the Museo Archeologico Gabriele Judica focuses on the archaeological finds from the ancient city of Leontini and its surrounding areas. The museum’s collection includes a range of artifacts such as pottery, statues, and inscriptions that date from the Greek to Roman periods.

Of particular interest are the artifacts related to the city’s history and its interactions with other ancient cultures.

11. Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

Located in Syracuse, Sicily, the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi is one of the most important archaeological museums in Italy. The museum features a vast collection of artifacts from the prehistoric, Greek, and Roman periods, including sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions. Highlights include artifacts from the ancient Greek city of Syracuse, such as the famous “Venus of Syracuse” statue.

Established in the early 20th century and named after the prominent archaeologist Paolo Orsi, the museum offers an in-depth exploration of the archaeological heritage of Sicily.

Roman Villas:

12. Villa Romana del Realmonte

The Villa Romana is an example of Roman villa architecture with remains that showcase the luxurious lifestyle of its inhabitants.

This villa includes mosaics, bath complexes, and residential quarters. It overlooks the sea.

13. Villa Romana del Tellaro

Located near Noto in Sicily, the Villa Romana del Tellaro has exceptional mosaics that date back to the 3rd century AD. It used to be a large land estate specializing in the export of agricultural goods such as olive oil.

The villa has a complex layout with a central peristyle, luxurious baths, and richly decorated mosaic floors depicting mythological and everyday scenes.

14. Villa Romana del Casale

The Villa Romana del Casale, located near Piazza Armerina in Sicily, is one of the most well-preserved and significant examples of Roman villa architecture in the Mediterranean. Dating back to the early 4th century AD, the villa is renowned for its extensive and elaborate mosaics, which cover over 3,500 square meters and depict a wide range of themes, including mythological scenes and hunting expeditions. 50% of the villa remains unexcavated, but the current remains are already some of the most luxurious found in the Roman world. The villa used to be an agricultural estate focused on the export of goods.

It includes a complex of rooms, baths, and courtyards arranged around a central atrium. The site provides a rare and comprehensive view of Roman art and domestic life, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

15. Villa Romana di Patti

Located in Patti, Sicily, the Villa Romana di Patti is an archaeological site of a Roman villa from the 4th century AD. Similar to the other villas, it used to be an agricultural estate focused on the export of agricultural commodities.

The villa features a variety of rooms, including residential quarters, baths, and dining areas, with some areas decorated with mosaics. The Roman villa shows mosaic art displaying scenes from mythology and daily life.

16. Villa Romana Terme Vigliatore Messina

The Villa Romana Terme Vigliatore, located near Messina in Sicily, is notable for its Roman baths and domestic architecture dating back to the 4th century AD. Although less well preserved compared to the other villas in Sicily, the villa features thermal baths, including hot and cold rooms, and a series of mosaic floors.

Roman theaters:

17. Teatro Romano di Catania / Catania Roman theater

The Teatro Romano di Catania, located in the heart of Catania, Sicily, is a well-preserved Roman theater dating from the 2nd century AD. The theater, built during the Roman Empire’s peak, features a semi-circular auditorium with seating for up to 7,000 spectators and a stage area.

The Roman Empire’s contribution is evident in the theater’s advanced engineering, including the use of concrete and arches to create a stable and durable structure.

18. Odeon Taormina

The Odeon of Taormina is an ancient Roman theater located in the town of Taormina. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, the Odeon was primarily used for musical performances and poetic recitations.

The Odeon’s location and its smaller scale provide insights into the varied entertainment options available to the Romans, complementing the larger theaters with more specialized performances.

19. Teatro Antico di Taormina / Taormina Roman theater

The Teatro Antico di Taormina, one of Sicily’s most famous ancient ruins and slightly larger than the theater at Catania, is a Roman theater that dates back to the 3rd century BC. It was extensively renovated under Roman rule.

This theater has an excellent location overlooking Mount Etna and the sea. With a seating capacity of up to 10,000 spectators, the theater features a well-preserved cavea (seating area), orchestra (performance area), and the scaena (stage area).

Roman temples:

20. Temple of Athena in Syracuse

The Temple of Athena, located in the ancient city of Syracuse on Sicily’s eastern coast, is a monumental structure originally built in the 5th century BC during the height of Greek influence. It was later converted into a Christian church and subsequently a mosque under Arab rule, which helped to preserve its core structure through various historical periods.

The Romans maintained the temple’s classical Greek façade while incorporating their own architectural features, such as modifications to the interior space. The structure’s conversion into a Christian church in the early medieval period preserved much of its original form, including the iconic columns and the cella (inner chamber).

The site serves as an example of how ancient structures were repurposed and adapted to meet the needs of different civilizations over centuries. Its continued excavation and study offer valuable information about Syracuse’s rich historical and architectural heritage, bridging Greek, Roman, and later cultural elements.