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Herbessos
37.4273° N, 14.3010° E
About
Herbessos was an ancient city located at Montagna di Marzo, Sicily, a few kilometres north-west of Piazza Armerina. It occupied an area of approximately 15 hectares and has been partially excavated. The first limited excavations were by Paolo Orsi in 1930 who described the riches that were illegally stolen over the years, feeding large collections. Subsequently in the 1950s Dinu Adamesteanu recognised, through aerial photography, part of the ancient access routes to the city. In the 60s archaeology was carried out by Gino Vinicio Gentili and subsequently by Vito Romano who also identified a sacred area.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Destruction and Roman rebuilding
3rd–2nd century BCE
Hippocrates takes refuge
214 BC
Roman recapture
260 BC
Roman supply base (First Punic War)
262 BC
Garrison expelled and alliance shift
309 BC
Dionysius attack and treaty
404 BC
Siege of Syracuse alliance
415–413 BC
Inscribed tomb vases referencing Italo/Sicelio
1100 BC
Early excavations by Paolo Orsi
1930
Aerial survey identifies access routes
1950s
Later archaeological campaigns
1960s
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Defensive Structures
Military Installations
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Transportation and Communication Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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