Metaponto is one of the ideal locations for those who want to enjoy the sea and the warm southern sun, immersed in the history of one of the most important colonies of Magna Graecia... #tuttitaly
Metaponto is one of the ideal locations for those who want to enjoy the sea and the warm southern sun, immersed in the history of one of the most important colonies of Magna Graecia.
Lovers of the sea will find a wide, sandy beach equipped with beaches for swimmers and sailing lovers. Furthermore, near the mouths of the Bradano and Basento rivers, you will find unspoiled areas ideal for sport fishing.
Founded in the mid-7th century BC by Greeks from Acaia, Metaponto became one of the most important colonies of Magna Graecia. Its large and fertile territory was famous for its cereal production. As evidence, the ear on the city's coinage is lent.
After an impressive building development, which took place around the second half of the sixth and first half of the fourth century BC, the city under the dominion of Rome went through a phase of decline, and the town was limited to the Castrum area.
Furthermore, the continuous flooding of the rivers led to a progressive abandonment of the site.
The sacred area contains four temples: the oldest, dedicated to Athena (6th century BC); the Doric, Apollo, and Hera temples, built in 570 BC; and the monumental Ionic temple dedicated to Aphrodite, built in 470 BC.
The urban layout is delimited by an imposing wall circuit dating back to the sixth century BC, characterized by a series of monumental entrances.
Today, you can get to know the culture of Magna Graecia up close thanks to the Archaeological Park, which preserves the remains of what was saved from the continuous destruction of the Greek polis, and to the National Museum of Metapontino, which holds finds from prehistoric times to late antiquity. You can also admire the suburban Temple of Hera, the Tavole Palatine.
