Global Treasures: Selinunte

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1199

UPC: 879061007989

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

It is believed that the proud and majestic E Temple was originally built in honor of the Greek goddess Hera. It still rises up from the meadows of Selinunte. Although rebuilt in recent times, its columns are evocative of Sicily's colorful history.

For many centuries, little was visible of the once important city of Selinus that is situated on the border of the former Greek Empire. Tall sand dunes once covered the impressive architectural heritage of this coastal city, including the buildings of the eastern temple district. The ancient city was discovered in the 16th century by a Sicilian historian, but it was not until the 1950's that the Hera Temple was restored.

In 409 BC, the Carthaginians attacked the formerly friendly city of Selinus, although the reason for this remains a mystery. The people of Selinus were unable to defend themselves against the military might of Hannibal Mago, thus large areas of the city were completely destroyed.

Measuring around 284 hectares, Selinunte is the largest archaeological excavation site in Europe, and who knows how many more treasures may one day be discovered?