Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

The Sabucina Archaeological Site is a place of great historical and cultural significance in Sicily. Located just a few kilometers from Caltanissetta, it stands as a testament to thousands of years of history, spanning from the earliest phases of prehistoric civilization to the Hellenistic period. Through numerous excavations and discoveries, visitors can gain valuable insights into the evolution of daily life and religious traditions of the people who once inhabited this area.
Location and Strategic Importance
The Sabucina archaeological site is situated approximately 10 km northeast of Caltanissetta, on the hill of the same name. Its strategic position offered a privileged vantage point over the major inland communication routes of central Sicily, making it a key reference point for indigenous communities and later Greek colonizers.
Phases of Occupation
Early Bronze Age (23rd – 15th century BC)
During this period, Sabucina was home to small villages associated with the Castelluccian culture, characterized by circular huts and an economy based on agriculture and livestock farming.
Late Bronze Age (13th – 10th century BC)
In this phase, the settlement expanded with the establishment of a large village of huts on the slopes of the hill. The dwellings reflect influences from the Pantalica North culture.
Iron Age (10th – 9th century BC)
During the Iron Age, a modest settlement developed, associated with the Cassibile culture, marked by a more complex social organization and advancements in metallurgical technology.
Archaic Period (8th – 7th century BC)
With the arrival of early Greek influences, Sabucina evolved into a residential center with rectangular houses arranged at the hill’s summit. The first designated cult spaces were established during this period.
Greek Period (6th – 5th century BC)
True Hellenization occurred with the arrival of colonists from Gela, who strengthened the site’s defensive structures by constructing imposing fortification walls. However, in the 5th century BC, the settlement was destroyed by Ducetius, king of the Siculi.
Hellenistic Period (4th century BC)
The site was reconstructed with a new system of fortifications and defensive towers but was ultimately abandoned after 310 BC, likely due to pressures from local conflicts and Roman expansion.
Architectural Features and Notable Discoveries
Circular Huts and Hypogea

The earliest dwellings discovered at the site were circular huts, some of which incorporated natural caves in the hillside as hypogea, used for funerary or storage purposes.

Religious Sites
A fundamental aspect of life in Sabucina was the worship of chthonic deities. Among the most significant discoveries are remains of shrines and altars where propitiatory rituals were performed.
Fortification Walls
The imposing walls, constructed from local stone blocks, demonstrate the site’s strategic importance and the need for defense against enemy incursions.
The Sabucina Shrine
One of Sabucina’s most notable artifacts is the so-called Sabucina Shrine, a clay model on a high pedestal representing a small temple in antis. The model, adorned with figures of horsemen and gorgons on the roof, offers valuable insight into the religious devotion of the period.
Decline and Abandonment
After 310 BC, the settlement of Sabucina was gradually abandoned. However, the surrounding area continued to be inhabited during the Roman era, with the establishment of new farms and rural villas in the plain below.
Modern Archaeological Discoveries
Archaeological excavations at Sabucina began in the 1960s under the direction of Piero Orlandini, uncovering numerous artifacts that have contributed to reconstructing the site’s history and various phases of occupation.
The Sabucina Antiquarium
Within the archaeological park, an antiquarium showcases some of the most significant artifacts unearthed during the excavations, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of this ancient settlement.
How to Get There, Opening Hours, and Useful Information for Your Visit
To visit the Sabucina Archaeological Site and Antiquarium, located in Contrada Sabucina, Caltanissetta, the opening hours are as follows:
- Every day: from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
- Last Monday of the month: closed.
The entrance fee is €2.00 for a full ticket and €1.00 for a reduced ticket.
It is recommended to check for any updates regarding opening hours and ticket prices by contacting the facility directly at +39 0934 566982.
Location on the Map
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Related Posts
Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

The Sabucina Archaeological Site is a place of great historical and cultural significance in Sicily. Located just a few kilometers from Caltanissetta, it stands as a testament to thousands of years of history, spanning from the earliest phases of prehistoric civilization to the Hellenistic period. Through numerous excavations and discoveries, visitors can gain valuable insights into the evolution of daily life and religious traditions of the people who once inhabited this area.
Location and Strategic Importance
The Sabucina archaeological site is situated approximately 10 km northeast of Caltanissetta, on the hill of the same name. Its strategic position offered a privileged vantage point over the major inland communication routes of central Sicily, making it a key reference point for indigenous communities and later Greek colonizers.
Phases of Occupation
Early Bronze Age (23rd – 15th century BC)
During this period, Sabucina was home to small villages associated with the Castelluccian culture, characterized by circular huts and an economy based on agriculture and livestock farming.
Late Bronze Age (13th – 10th century BC)
In this phase, the settlement expanded with the establishment of a large village of huts on the slopes of the hill. The dwellings reflect influences from the Pantalica North culture.
Iron Age (10th – 9th century BC)
During the Iron Age, a modest settlement developed, associated with the Cassibile culture, marked by a more complex social organization and advancements in metallurgical technology.
Archaic Period (8th – 7th century BC)
With the arrival of early Greek influences, Sabucina evolved into a residential center with rectangular houses arranged at the hill’s summit. The first designated cult spaces were established during this period.
Greek Period (6th – 5th century BC)
True Hellenization occurred with the arrival of colonists from Gela, who strengthened the site’s defensive structures by constructing imposing fortification walls. However, in the 5th century BC, the settlement was destroyed by Ducetius, king of the Siculi.
Hellenistic Period (4th century BC)
The site was reconstructed with a new system of fortifications and defensive towers but was ultimately abandoned after 310 BC, likely due to pressures from local conflicts and Roman expansion.
Architectural Features and Notable Discoveries
Circular Huts and Hypogea

The earliest dwellings discovered at the site were circular huts, some of which incorporated natural caves in the hillside as hypogea, used for funerary or storage purposes.

Religious Sites
A fundamental aspect of life in Sabucina was the worship of chthonic deities. Among the most significant discoveries are remains of shrines and altars where propitiatory rituals were performed.
Fortification Walls
The imposing walls, constructed from local stone blocks, demonstrate the site’s strategic importance and the need for defense against enemy incursions.
The Sabucina Shrine
One of Sabucina’s most notable artifacts is the so-called Sabucina Shrine, a clay model on a high pedestal representing a small temple in antis. The model, adorned with figures of horsemen and gorgons on the roof, offers valuable insight into the religious devotion of the period.
Decline and Abandonment
After 310 BC, the settlement of Sabucina was gradually abandoned. However, the surrounding area continued to be inhabited during the Roman era, with the establishment of new farms and rural villas in the plain below.
Modern Archaeological Discoveries
Archaeological excavations at Sabucina began in the 1960s under the direction of Piero Orlandini, uncovering numerous artifacts that have contributed to reconstructing the site’s history and various phases of occupation.
The Sabucina Antiquarium
Within the archaeological park, an antiquarium showcases some of the most significant artifacts unearthed during the excavations, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of this ancient settlement.
How to Get There, Opening Hours, and Useful Information for Your Visit
To visit the Sabucina Archaeological Site and Antiquarium, located in Contrada Sabucina, Caltanissetta, the opening hours are as follows:
- Every day: from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
- Last Monday of the month: closed.
The entrance fee is €2.00 for a full ticket and €1.00 for a reduced ticket.
It is recommended to check for any updates regarding opening hours and ticket prices by contacting the facility directly at +39 0934 566982.
Location on the Map
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Related Posts
Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Sabucina Archaeological Site: A Guide to Its History, Excavations, and How to Visit
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Discover the Sabucina Archaeological Site in Caltanissetta – an enchanting journey through history, culture, and the ancient civilizations of Sicily
Text and Photos by Marco Crupi

The Sabucina Archaeological Site is a place of great historical and cultural significance in Sicily. Located just a few kilometers from Caltanissetta, it stands as a testament to thousands of years of history, spanning from the earliest phases of prehistoric civilization to the Hellenistic period. Through numerous excavations and discoveries, visitors can gain valuable insights into the evolution of daily life and religious traditions of the people who once inhabited this area.
Location and Strategic Importance
The Sabucina archaeological site is situated approximately 10 km northeast of Caltanissetta, on the hill of the same name. Its strategic position offered a privileged vantage point over the major inland communication routes of central Sicily, making it a key reference point for indigenous communities and later Greek colonizers.
Phases of Occupation
Early Bronze Age (23rd – 15th century BC)
During this period, Sabucina was home to small villages associated with the Castelluccian culture, characterized by circular huts and an economy based on agriculture and livestock farming.
Late Bronze Age (13th – 10th century BC)
In this phase, the settlement expanded with the establishment of a large village of huts on the slopes of the hill. The dwellings reflect influences from the Pantalica North culture.
Iron Age (10th – 9th century BC)
During the Iron Age, a modest settlement developed, associated with the Cassibile culture, marked by a more complex social organization and advancements in metallurgical technology.
Archaic Period (8th – 7th century BC)
With the arrival of early Greek influences, Sabucina evolved into a residential center with rectangular houses arranged at the hill’s summit. The first designated cult spaces were established during this period.
Greek Period (6th – 5th century BC)
True Hellenization occurred with the arrival of colonists from Gela, who strengthened the site’s defensive structures by constructing imposing fortification walls. However, in the 5th century BC, the settlement was destroyed by Ducetius, king of the Siculi.
Hellenistic Period (4th century BC)
The site was reconstructed with a new system of fortifications and defensive towers but was ultimately abandoned after 310 BC, likely due to pressures from local conflicts and Roman expansion.
Architectural Features and Notable Discoveries
Circular Huts and Hypogea

The earliest dwellings discovered at the site were circular huts, some of which incorporated natural caves in the hillside as hypogea, used for funerary or storage purposes.

Religious Sites
A fundamental aspect of life in Sabucina was the worship of chthonic deities. Among the most significant discoveries are remains of shrines and altars where propitiatory rituals were performed.
Fortification Walls
The imposing walls, constructed from local stone blocks, demonstrate the site’s strategic importance and the need for defense against enemy incursions.
The Sabucina Shrine
One of Sabucina’s most notable artifacts is the so-called Sabucina Shrine, a clay model on a high pedestal representing a small temple in antis. The model, adorned with figures of horsemen and gorgons on the roof, offers valuable insight into the religious devotion of the period.
Decline and Abandonment
After 310 BC, the settlement of Sabucina was gradually abandoned. However, the surrounding area continued to be inhabited during the Roman era, with the establishment of new farms and rural villas in the plain below.
Modern Archaeological Discoveries
Archaeological excavations at Sabucina began in the 1960s under the direction of Piero Orlandini, uncovering numerous artifacts that have contributed to reconstructing the site’s history and various phases of occupation.
The Sabucina Antiquarium
Within the archaeological park, an antiquarium showcases some of the most significant artifacts unearthed during the excavations, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of this ancient settlement.
How to Get There, Opening Hours, and Useful Information for Your Visit
To visit the Sabucina Archaeological Site and Antiquarium, located in Contrada Sabucina, Caltanissetta, the opening hours are as follows:
- Every day: from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
- Last Monday of the month: closed.
The entrance fee is €2.00 for a full ticket and €1.00 for a reduced ticket.
It is recommended to check for any updates regarding opening hours and ticket prices by contacting the facility directly at +39 0934 566982.