The Temple of Vulcan occupies the western tip of the rocky spur that forms the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, on the ridge outside the modern settlement. It dates from the Classical period, around 430 BC, with a peripteral Doric plan, hexastyle, 6 × 13.
Presentation and historical overview
The Temple of Vulcan can be reached on foot, via the path that descends from the northern edge of the sanctuary of the chthonic deities down to the Kolymbetra, then climbs the hill up to the (disused) railway line. It can also be reached by car via the 115, then following a dirt track passing under the railway bridge.
Temple of Vulcan
The temple was built on the remains of an archaic sacellum, incorporated into the foundations, whose terracotta decorative elements have been brought to light. Only portions of the crepidoma and a few columns survive.
The temple is of the peripteral type, Doric order, hexastyle, with thirteen columns on the long sides.
Little remains of the elevated part, with two portions of the crepidoma with four steps and two columns. Inside, the cella with pronaos and opisthodomos can be distinguished.
Certain elements show Ionic influences, such as the cornice decorated with egg-and-dart and dentils, or column shafts with a fluted face.
The name “Temple of Vulcan” is a conventional attribution based on an ancient Latin text mentioning a place called “Collis Vulcanius” near Akragas, and not on archaeological or epigraphic evidence. The actual origin of the cult practiced in this temple remains unknown
Temple of Vulcan 
Temple of Vulcan
Where the Temple of Vulcan is located in Agrigento
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Information
External sites
- Official website: www.museionline.info/tipologie-museo/tempio-di-efesto-agrigento
- Wikipedia page: it.wikipedia.org
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Comments in other languages
Charming corner of the Valley of the Temples where few visitors take the trouble to venture. Admittedly, the remains there are modest in comparison with the rest of the site.