Megara Hyblaea: Siceliot Archaeology

According to ancient sources, Megara Hyblaea, along with Naxos, was one of the earliest Siceliot cities. Founded around 729 B.C. by Greek settlers from Megara and the Dorians, it was destroyed twice, first by Gelon in 483 B.C. and later by the Romans under Marcellus in 213 B.C. This small city, spanning about 50 hectares, was also the birthplace of the playwright Epicharmus. Excavations have uncovered fortifications, baths, necropolises, a sanctuary, a temple and the agora. Many of these findings are now housed in the local Antiquarium.