Area archeologica di Leontinoi

About the museum

The archaeological area occupies the hills of ancient Leontinoi, between the municipalities of Lentini and Carlentini, with traces of settlement from the Neolithic to the Iron Age. The Greek city was founded in 729 BC by Chalcidian colonists; after a conflict with neighbouring Megara, Panaitios became the first documented tyrant of Sicily.

At the start of the 5th century BC the city was subjugated by Ippocrate di Gela; then Gelone moved the inhabitants of Catania and Naxos there in 476 BC. In 433 BC it allied itself with Athens, sending the orator Gorgia as its ambassador; after the Peace of Gela (424 BC) it was annexed to Syracuse. Dionisio I fortified it in 405 BC and stored grain there; it later passed to the rule of Ierone II and was occupied by the Romans in 214 BC, beginning a slow decline.

Today the main monuments open to visitors are the South Gate and the adjacent fortification, in the territory of Carlentini. Excavations by the University of Catania, in collaboration with the park, are continuing at the North Gate.

Highlights

• South Gate and adjacent fortification
• Greek colony founded in 729 BC
• Excavations of the University of Catania at the North Gate
• Link with the Museo archeologico di Lentini

Permanent exhibition

• Area archeologica di Leontinoi – South Gate with the adjacent fortification, in the territory of Carlentini; excavations in progress at the North Gate.

Operated by

Parco archeologico di Leontinoi e Megara (Regione Siciliana)

Visitors per year

approx. 1,000

Admission & discounts

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Accessibility

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Kids & families

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Getting there & parking

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Amenities & dining

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Events & venue rental

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