Archaeological Park of Occhiolà

Grammichele, Italy

On the three ridges of the hill of Terravecchia it is situated the ancient area of Occhiolà, that developed him along an only principal road axle of medieval origin, it notices a great deal simple structures, typical of a country suburb.

On the tall part the imposing castle was found, of which lean traces remain, among which a buttress realized with blocks of square stone. This hilly system that constitutes the greatest part of the territory of Grammichele is an extraordinary archaeological layer that continues to be dug and studied since the first searches of Paul Orsi at the end of last century, and that today you/he/she could become a great cultural park. Here it is found, probably, the ancient Echetla, city sicula then ellenizzata, testimony of the Greek expansion toward the hinterland, of the relationships between natives and Greek.

Necropolis, residences and sacred areas have returned innumerable finds that notice the wealth and the artistic taste of this center.

The earthquake of 1693 completely destroyed Occhiolà and citizens moved to the near Grammichele.

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Grammichele, Italy
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Founded: 5th century BCE
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Italy

Rating

4.1/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Orlando Marco Belcore (2 years ago)
Located outside the village of Grammichele, the urban park is easily accessible with direct access from a public road. Currently closed, it is in a poor state of maintenance. Furthermore, traces of a fire are evident. Be careful where you step, you could sink into some tunnel or underground environment. Having said this, however, the settlement retains a mystical charm whose origins are lost back over the centuries, perhaps down to its roots in the late Hellenistic period. It's a shame that we have little care for our past, we are an ungrateful people, who preserve unattainable pearls and splendors. It goes without saying that the site cannot be visited at the moment, but I found the gate open and went inside. 06/01/2023! The 3 stars are a complaint to our political class and to the superintendency, because the place deserves 6.
lajoiedevivr (5 years ago)
Absurd. In the middle of July the site is abandoned, brambles in the path and 3 forest guards who discuss and do not even say hello ....
Francesco Salamanca (6 years ago)
It should be more polished and accessible have visitors.
Wim Fields (6 years ago)
Only information in Italian
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