If you want to feel like you are truly far, far away, without leaving our
galaxy, go to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, Sicily. Talk about a step
back in time! We’re talkin’ 2,500 years
back. Most of the Greek temples in Sicily were destroyed as the island was
conquered again and again, but somehow these seven temples escaped demolition. The
combination of natural and man-made beauty, with the sheer enormity of the
ruins surrounded by hills and valleys as far as you can see, well…. it’s almost
too much to take in. But take it in anyway, because the experience will never
leave you.
Standing amidst the giant remnants of Greek temples, built to honor
the mythical rulers of Mt. Olympus, will imprint surreal images in your memory
that could never be duplicated in photos.
From the Temple to Hera Lacinia (Juno) to the Temple of Concordia (one of the
best preserved Doric temples in the world), you’ll walk a path that will take
you past burial sites, picturesque flora and fauna, fascinating statues like
the horrifically beautiful one at left (serpent children???), and of course,
more temple ruins. I thought it a bit ironic that the Temple of Hercules had
suffered the most damage over the years.
As you walk, you may ponder the
question that plagued me throughout the journey: How on earth did ancient
peoples, with none of our modern technology, build these massive structures?
And moreover, build them so well, they are still standing after 2,500 years of
attacks from humans and the environment? Well, that’s another of life’s great
mysteries. I’m just grateful that they exist and I had the opportunity to see
them. I hope you do, too! 
