Metaponto Urban Archaeological Park

The urban area archaeological park preserves the heart of ancient Metaponto, one of the most important cities of Magna Grecia, in the territory of Bernalda, just a few kilometres from the sea.

History

The city was founded by Achaean colonists in the second half of the 7th century BC. It covered about 150 hectares, protected by walls, with streets laid out in a regular grid. According to tradition, the philosopher Pythagoras lived and taught here.

What to see

• The urban sanctuary, with the remains of the great temples of the 6th and 5th centuries BC: Temple C, dedicated to Athena, the oldest; Temple A, dedicated to Hera; Temple B, Doric, dedicated to Apollo Lycius; Temple D, dedicated to Artemis, dating from the late 5th century BC.
• The agora, the great square of political and commercial life.
• The theatre from the 4th century BC, built on an artificial embankment: a unique case in Magna Grecia.
• Information panels that explain the ancient city; the staff are often happy to tell you about the site.

How to visit

The park is in the contrada (rural locality) of Sansone, near Metaponto Borgo. Opening times are seasonal: in 2026 the site opens on Friday afternoons and all day on Saturdays and Sundays. The Crucinia necropolis is currently not open to visitors.

Useful information

• Summers are very hot and there is little shade: it is best to go in the morning or late afternoon, with water and a hat.
• A few kilometres away are the Tavole Palatine, the temple of Hera with its fifteen Doric columns, and the National Archaeological Museum.