Archeology of Sicily and Magna Graecia

Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: ELEONORA PAPPALARDO

Expected Learning Outcomes

The course aims to provide basic knowledge on the civilization of the Greeks of southern Italy and Sicily, through the diachronic analysis of the relationship of the colonies with the territory in which they were founded, the structure and organization of the cities, of the main architectural and figurative expressions. The course also intends to deepen the relationship between Greek settlers and indigenous people in the different territories. At the end of the course, the student must have acquired the ability to move autonomously between the different topics covered, to know how to build links and deepen the individual aspects of the discipline, using an appropriate language and a clear and orderly presentation. At the same time, models for the promotion and enhancement of Greek and Roman archaeological monuments in Sicily will be proposed to students.

DD1. Knowledge of the main archaeological sites of Sicily and Magna Grecia, and understanding of the dynamics and processes underlying the formation of the polis.

DD2. Application of the knowledge acquired to the planning of archaeological tourism, with particular reference to the development of models for informed and sustainable access and enjoyment of cultural heritage.

Course Structure

Lectures integrated with laboratory and field activities, including through educational trips to selected locations.

Required Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of Greek Archaeology

Attendance of Lessons

Attendance is optional, but highly recommended, especially in relation to field activities.

Detailed Course Content

Introduction to the discipline and history of studies;

The archaeological evidence of the colonial phenomenon;

The development of the Greek colonies;

Analysis of the most representative monuments of the Greek cities of Sicily and southern Italy;

The relationship between the Greeks and the indigenous populations.

Territory promotion models through the application of modern communication and sharing systems (documentaries, storytelling), also through the use of social networks.

Textbook Information

Gioacchino Francesco La Torre, Sicilia e Magna Grecia. Archeologia della colonizzazione greca d'Occidente, Editori Laterza, Roma-Bari 2001, capitoli 1-3 (pp. 5-132); capitoli 5-7 (pp. 157-334).

Rosa Maria Albanese Procelli, Sicani, Siculi, Elimi. Forme di identità, modi di contatto e processi di trasformazione, Longanesi & C., Milano 2003, pp. 131-243.

Learning Assessment

Learning Assessment Procedures

Oral exam on the contents of the course and creation of a group project (optional) on a monument or archaeological area of your choice.

Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises

What is colonization;

What are the indigenous populations of Sicily;

Main features of the Doric temples in Sicily and Magna Graecia;

Colonies and sub-colonies;

Main Magno-Greek and Sicilian centres.

Degree Course in

Tourism Science