The project

The “Parchium” project (developed thanks to the “National Operational Programme on Culture and Development ERDF 2014-2020” designed to implement the “Knowledge Activities related to the Valley of Temples using archival sources”) was set up with a view to creating a parallel journey to discover the history of the Valley of Temples that doesn’t just take into account historic and artistic aspects, but also focuses on the safeguarding measures that have been introduced since the 19th century to help create the idea of the Park itself. Archival documentation plays a crucial role in this context and can be considered an integral part of the archaeological activities and conservation and protection measures. The documents on file in the Agrigento State Archive, rather than describing the Valley of Temples in terms of the history of archeologic excavations and analysis, focus on the actions, people, stories and work that have been brought to bear in order to safeguard and protect this cultural heritage site.

The approach to Park visits and the points of interest highlighted on this site are therefore the result of the analysis and selection of the precious archival materials and provide a chance to view the Valley of Temples from a different perspective, based on important events related to the conservation and protection of the area. This is a process that began at the beginning of the 19th century, as awareness of the importance of these ancient relics grew, right up to first three decades of the 20th century. From then on, the awareness and acceptance of responsibility that led to the inclusion of the Valley of Temples into the World Heritage List became common knowledge. 

On this site you will discover the main stations on this path and be able to consult the documents that tell this story directly. Thanks to the digital archive and the timeline you will be able to access the digitalised documents and carry out research on the main points of interest, the dates an the most important events that concern the Valley of Temples.

To accompany you on the discovery of this previously unheard tale of the Valley of Temples, an interactive and geo-localised multimedia App has been developed that enhances the visiting experience with the stories found in the archives linked to the main monuments of the Park.

The “Parchium” project has been set up to promote knowledge and experience that can be accessed by all users. For this reason the site and the app display content and adopt user friendly interfaces that make access easier for users with special needs and also help to get children to take part in this exciting adventure.