New, small temple discovered in Selinunte during latest excavation campaign

Recent archaeological excavations at Selinunte Park in Sicily, have led to the discovery of new sacred buildings and in particular a structure, apparently a small temple, located behind Temple C. These findings are the result of decades of work by archaeologists from the Institute of Fine Arts-NYU and the University of Milan, who have focused their studies on urban sanctuaries within the peribolos wall on the Acropolis.

In the latest excavation campaign, elements were discovered that could lead to a redefinition of the perimeter of the sacred area. These findings will be presented on August 11 at Baglio Florio by archaeological park director Felice Crescente and archaeologist Clemente Marconi, who coordinates the team of sixty staff and students.

The excavations covered several areas of the urban sanctuary, one of the most important cult sites in the Greek world during the Archaic and Classical periods. Major discoveries include the identification of a large monumental entrance to the northwest of the Acropolis, along with a room containing a circular well, various artifacts, coins, and a gold jewel. Also identified, as anticipated, was a structure that may lead to a hitherto unknown small temple characterized by the absence of columns.

Research has also provided new information on the rituals associated with the construction of Temple R. During the erection of this temple, surrounding structures were demolished down to the foundations, probably as part of rituals to “purify” the area. Among the findings in this area, an iron spear spire (machaira) emerged that had been “defunctionalized” through the removal of the tip and edge of the blade, a symbolic act to deprive the weapon of its offensive power.

“The research activities carried out in this area,” says Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity Councillor Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, “always reserve new discoveries, and in this case they are findings of great value. In the fall, when activities resume, we will have clearer details on the extent of the find.”

New, small temple discovered in Selinunte during latest excavation campaign

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