Between the sacred and the mythological, still partially shrouded in mystery, the Temple of Diana is one of those places where everything seems to have remained suspended and that, for this reason, deserves to be included in the list of what to see in Cefalù.
Located in the heart of the Rocca di Cefalù, halfway between the city center and the top of the cliff, is a megalithic structure dating back to the 9th century B.C. but, according to what emerged from numerous studies and archaeological investigations, was built in different periods.
The oldest part is represented by the cistern, carved in the rock and closed by large stone slabs, these last resting on the edges and on an architrave supported by a central column of cylindrical blocks.
The partially sketched façade and much of the structure of the Temple of Diana was built around the 5th century B.C. with large blocks of stone of irregular shape, while the upper part, which includes the architrave and the seems to date back to the 2nd century B.C. and differs from the rest by the use of well-squared stones.
Temple of Diana in Cefalù: between sacred and profane, the eternal mystery
The function that the Temple had over the years is one of the questions still unanswered and this has made the building be shrouded in an aura of mystery for a long time.
Many have wondered what it was for and what activities were carried out inside, since its location far from the city center suggests a different use of the place of worship.
Some studies attribute the function of Royal Palace of the first kings of the ancient Kephaloidion, others instead identify it as a fortress-sanctuary dedicated to the worship of pagan deities related to water, therefore is justified the presence of the cistern, while its dominant position on top of the cliff proved strategic for the defense of the city.
The presence of two small churches – one inside and the other above the Temple – however, leave no doubt as to whether the building was used for religious purposes.
How to reach the Temple of Diana on the Rocca di Cefalù: routes, timetable and prices
The Temple of Diana is one of the two main attractions that are located on the route of the Rocca di Cefalù. Specifically, the structure is located about 500 meters from the beginning of the route and can be reached in less than 15 minutes walk on the crenellated walls of medieval origin that characterize the Rocca.
The access to the route of the Rocca di Cefalù is located on the west side of the cliff and you can reach it through the narrow Salita Saraceni. Considering that much of the route for the Rocca is exposed to the sun, it is recommend to walk in the less hot months and at times when the sun is not too strong (early morning or before sunset).
The visit to the Temple of Diana is included in the cost of the ticket for access to the Rocca, which corresponds to 5 euros. Children aged 6 to 14, over 65s and teachers can take advantage of the discount, which brings the price to 2.50 euros.
The route is accessible all year round and every day at the following times:
- From April to October: from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (last entry at 7 p.m.);
- From November to March: from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last entry at 3 p.m.)