The Eternal Rest of the Hyblaean Kingdom: Pantalica, a Protohistoric Ghost Town

Pantalica, a Protohistoric archaeological site, has been under UNESCO's protection since 2005 and lies in the province of Siracusa, Sicily. Some historians argue that PantalicaOnce thought to be the ancient Erbesso, may in fact be the ancient Hybla, a Siculo kingdom. The site sits elevated, encircled by canyons sculpted by the Anapo and Calcinara rivers. The main point of interest within the archaeological area is the anaktoron, a palazzo of the Hyblaean prince.

The necropolis that accompanies the anaktoron boasts approximately 5000 rock-cut tombs. Although steep valleys make Pantalica semi-inaccessible, the Strada Regionale 11 from Ferla provides an easy route. Pantalica is part of the Pantalica, Valle dell'Anapo, and Torrente Cava Grande Nature Reserve. Decades ago, Pantalica was identified as the ancient Erbesso, but more recent studies suggest it to be the ancient Hybla. Some walls bear inscriptions, such as the Ipogeo di Dionisio in the San Martino necropolis which reads: ‘Dionisio, who served as a priest in the Church Erghitana for 34 years, finds his eternal rest here.

In the same San Martino necropolis, remnants of Byzantine-era frescoes can be found, depicting partially recognizable figures such as Saints Mary, Peter, and Anastasia. Today, Pantalica attracts visitors for hikes and nature walks.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikimedia Commons