What is Gela, and where is it located?

Gela is a city and a comune, which is an administrative division similar to a municipality, situated in the Autonomous Region of Sicily, Italy. It is located on the Mediterranean coast at the estuary of the Gela river on the southwestern side of Sicily.

What is Gela's significance in terms of size within Sicily?

Gela holds the distinction of being the largest municipality on the southern coast of Sicily, both in terms of its geographical area and its population.

How does Gela compare in size to its provincial capital?

Gela is notable for being one of the few municipalities in Italy whose population and area are larger than those of its provincial capital, Caltanissetta.

What was the ancient Greek name for Gela and how is it pronounced in modern Italian and Sicilian?

The ancient Greek name for the city was Γέλα (Gela). In modern Italian and Sicilian, it is pronounced approximately as [ˈd͡ʒɛːla].

When and by whom was Gela founded?

Gela was founded around 688 BC by Greek colonists who originated from Rhodes and Crete, approximately 45 years after the founding of Syracuse.

What historical period and cultural sphere did Gela significantly influence?

Gela was an influential polis, meaning an independent city-state, within Magna Graecia during the 7th and 6th centuries BC, becoming one of the most powerful cities in the region until the 5th century BC.

Which famous ancient Greek playwright lived and died in Gela?

The renowned Greek playwright Aeschylus lived in Gela and passed away there in 456 BC.

What significant event occurred at Gela during the Allied invasion of Sicily in World War II?

During the Allied invasion of Sicily, the Allied forces made their first landing on the island at Gela on July 10, 1943.

What is the origin of the name "Gela"?

The city was named after the Gela river. The river's name, in turn, is derived from the Sicilian dialect word "gela," which translates to "winter frost."

According to historical accounts, who were the founders of Gela?

According to the ancient historian Diodorus Siculus, the city of Gela was founded by individuals named Antiphemus and Entimus.

What were some of the early conflicts faced by the Greek settlers in Gela?

Shortly after its founding, the Gelans engaged in conflicts with the indigenous Sicani people of the region. Specifically, Antiphemus led a war against the nearby Sicani city of Omphace, which the Gelans eventually conquered, acquiring a statue attributed to the mythical sculptor Daedalus.

What religious structures were built on Gela's acropolis in its early history?

On the acropolis, the Greeks built the Temple of Athena Lindia, dedicated to the city's protector, Athena, in the 7th century BC. This structure was later incorporated into a second temple, also dedicated to Athena, in the 6th century BC.

How did the expansionist policies of Gela's tyrants affect the region?

The expansionist policies of Gela's tyrants, particularly Cleander and Hippocrates, led the city to found several satellite colonies, including Akragas (modern Agrigento). They also managed to subdue other cities like Kallipolis, Leontini, Naxos, and Zancle.

What was the outcome of Hippocrates' intervention in the conflict between Syracuse and Kamarina?

When Kamarina, a colony of Syracuse, rebelled in 492 BC, Hippocrates intervened. After defeating the Syracusan army at the Heloros river, he besieged Syracuse. He eventually retreated in exchange for gaining control of Camarina.

Who succeeded Hippocrates as the leader of Gela, and what significant battle occurred during his rule?

Hippocrates was succeeded by Gelon. During the time of Gelon and his brother Hiero, they achieved victory against the Carthaginians at the Battle of Himera in 480 BC, where the Carthaginian leader Hamilcar was killed.

What major diplomatic event took place in Gela in 424 BC?

In 424 BC, Gela hosted the Congress of Gela, where Sicilian cities convened to discuss peace terms. This congress resulted in a peace agreement based on the principle of "Sicily for the Sicilians."

How did Gela fare against the Athenian expedition to Sicily?

Gela was part of the Sicilian League that successfully repelled the Athenian attempt to conquer the island during the Sicilian Expedition in 415 BC.

What was the fate of Gela in 405 BC following the Carthaginian invasion?

After the Carthaginians conquered and destroyed Agrigento, Gela was subsequently ruined and its treasures sacked in 405 BC. The survivors sought refuge in Syracuse.

Who was responsible for rebuilding Gela's city walls, and what changes occurred to the acropolis?

Timoleon rebuilt the city walls in 338 BC after the destruction caused by the Carthaginians. Following this, the acropolis lost its sacred character and was populated with houses, while the city's monumental area was relocated to Capo Soprano.

What internal conflicts did Gela experience under Agathocles, and what led to the abandonment of its acropolis?

Under Agathocles, Gela suffered from internal strife between the common people and the aristocracy. When the Carthaginians arrived in 311 BC, they captured the city with the help of the aristocrats, leading to the definitive abandonment of the acropolis site at Molino a Vento.

What happened to Gela in 282 BC, and who was potentially responsible?

In 282 BC, Phintias of Agrigento reportedly destroyed Gela to eliminate its power and transferred its population to his new city, Phintias. However, some sources suggest the Mamertines were the actual destroyers of the city five years earlier.

How is Gela mentioned in Roman literature, and what was its status during the Byzantine era?

Under Roman rule, a small settlement still existed in Gela, which was mentioned by notable authors like Virgil, Pliny the Elder, Cicero, and Strabo. During the Byzantine period, it served as a minor administrative center.

What name was Gela known by during the Arab period and later medieval times?

Under the Arabs, Gela was known as the "City of Columns." Later, a new settlement founded in 1233 by Frederick II was known as "Terranova," a name it retained until 1928.

When was the city of Terranova founded, and by whom?

The city of Terranova, which later became known as Gela, was founded in 1233 by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor. This new settlement was established west of the ancient Gela site.

How did the ownership of Terranova change hands in the medieval period?

Terranova was a royal possession until 1369 when King Frederick III of Aragon granted it to Manfredi III Chiaramonte. Following the treason of Andrea Chiaramonte in 1401, the city was confiscated and subsequently assigned to various Aragonese feudataries.

When were the titles of Marquis and Duke of Terranova created, and for whom?

The title of Marquis of Terranova was created in 1530 for Giovanni Tagliavia Aragona, and his son Carlo obtained the title of Duke in 1561.

What significant event related to World War II occurred on the beaches of Gela on July 10, 1943?

On July 10, 1943, during the initial assault of the Allied invasion of Sicily, U.S. forces, specifically the U.S. 1st Infantry Division and the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, landed on the beaches of Gela.

What role did the U.S. Army Engineers play in the Gela area during the Italian Campaign?

Following the landings, U.S. Army Engineers constructed several advanced landing airfields in the vicinity of Gela. These airfields were utilized by the Twelfth Air Force during the Italian Campaign of World War II.

What major industrial development occurred in Gela after World War II, and what were its consequences?

After the war, a large oil refinery was built in Gela as part of Eni's industrial expansion plan. While intended to boost the regional economy, the refinery negatively impacted the area's visual appeal and tourism, and it was eventually closed down in 2014.

Where is Gela geographically situated in Sicily?

Gela is situated on the Mediterranean coast of Sicily, specifically at the estuary of the Gela river on the island's southwestern side.

Describe the climate of Gela.

Gela experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The majority of precipitation typically occurs during the autumn and winter months.

What are the main archaeological sites that can be visited in Gela today?

The primary archaeological areas accessible for visits in Gela include the Timolean Walls, the Acropolis, the site of Bosco Littorio, and the Greek Baths.

What is notable about the Timolean Walls discovered in Gela?

The Timolean Walls, dating back to the 4th century BC, are significant for their construction using large squared blocks of calcarenite topped with clay bricks, and their impressive preserved height. They are considered important discoveries for understanding ancient Greek defensive engineering.

What can be found within the Acropolis archaeological area of Gela?

The Acropolis area contains the ruins of ancient houses, shops, temples, and remnants of the Hippodamian road system, characterized by its planned layout of streets. The sacred area, with the bases of three temples, is also located here.

What is unique about the Greek Baths of Gela?

The Greek Baths of Gela, located in via Europa, are considered unique in Sicily. They feature two rooms with distinct groups of bathtubs, connected by a wastewater system, and were constructed using a mix of terracotta fragments and sandstone debris.

What significant archaeological discoveries have been made recently in the Gela area?

Recent discoveries include the oldest known Greek shipwreck (dating to 500 BC), foundations of two additional Greek temples, a monumental Hellenistic villa, and in 2019, a sarcophagus containing a skeleton and a nearby ceramic jug with infant bones, indicating the presence of a Greek necropolis.

What are the main sights mentioned in Gela, besides archaeological areas?

Other main sights include the Regional Archeological Museum, the Bosco Littorio park, the Mother church (Holy Virgin Assunta), the San Francesco d'Assisi church, the Castelluccio ("Small Castle"), the Natural Reserve of Biviere di Gela, and the coastal village of Manfria with its tower.

What is the significance of the Bosco Littorio site?

Bosco Littorio is an archaeological site south of the Acropolis that contains the remains of an extensive emporium, dating from the 7th to 6th centuries BC. This complex included workshops, warehouses, and shops, and the Museum of Navigation is also located in this area.

What is the name of Gela's football team and its home stadium?

Gela's football team is S.S.D. Città di Gela, and its home stadium is the Stadio Vincenzo Presti.

What was the best performance achieved by S.S.D. Città di Gela in Italian football?

The team's best performance was securing 12th position in Group B of the 2010-11 Lega Pro Prima Divisione.

Name three notable people associated with Gela.

Three notable people associated with Gela are Gelo, the playwright Aeschylus, and Archestratus.

Which Greek cities are Gela twinned with?

Gela is twinned with Eleusina in Greece.

Which German city is Gela twinned with?

Gela is twinned with Wittingen in Germany.

Which Norwegian municipality does Gela have a twinning relationship with?

Gela is twinned with Nordkapp Municipality in Norway.

What is the official website for the municipality of Gela?

The official website for the municipality of Gela is comune.gela.cl.it.

What is the elevation of Gela above sea level?

Gela is situated at an elevation of 46 meters (approximately 151 feet) above sea level.

What is the population density of Gela?

The population density of Gela is approximately 260 people per square kilometer (or 660 people per square mile).

What is the patron saint of Gela, and on what date is their feast day observed?

The patron saint of Gela is St. Maria dell'Alemanna, and her feast day is celebrated on September 8th.

What does the name "Gela" signify in the Sicilian dialect?

In the Sicilian dialect, the word "gela" means "winter frost," which is the origin of the river Gela's name and subsequently the city's name.

What was the significance of the Congress of Gela in 424 BC?

The Congress of Gela was a diplomatic meeting of Sicilian cities aimed at establishing peace. It concluded with an agreement for all Sicilian cities to govern themselves, based on the principle of "Sicily for the Sicilians."

Gela Wiki: Gela: A Sicilian Chronicle of Ages

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Gela: An Ancient Crossroads

Foundation and Magna Graecia

Gela, founded around 688 BC by Greek colonists from Rhodes and Crete, emerged as a significant polis within Magna Graecia. It flourished particularly in the 7th and 6th centuries BC, becoming a major cultural and political center. Its strategic location and influence extended across Sicily, shaping the region's early history.

Cultural Hub

The city was a vibrant center of intellectual life, notably serving as the residence of the renowned playwright Aeschylus, who died there in 456 BC. This association highlights Gela's importance in the classical world's artistic and philosophical landscape.

Strategic Significance

Gela's history is marked by its strategic importance, evident in its role during ancient conflicts and, much later, in World War II. In 1943, the Allied forces made one of their initial landings on Sicilian soil at the beaches of Gela, a pivotal moment in the Mediterranean campaign.

A Tapestry of Time

Ancient Era

Archaeological evidence indicates occupation from the Copper Age (4th millennium BC) and Bronze Age (2nd millennium BC). Founded by Rhodians and Cretans, Gela quickly became a powerful city-state. Its expansionist policy under tyrants like Hippocrates led to the establishment of colonies such as Akragas (Agrigento) and the subjugation of other cities. Gela was also a key player in the Sicilian Wars, notably hosting the Congress of Gela in 424 BC, which sought peace among Sicilian cities.

Gela's early history involved conflicts with the indigenous Sicani. The city flourished under rulers like Cleander and Hippocrates, who expanded its influence. After periods of internal strife and destruction by the Carthaginians, the city was rebuilt by Timoleon in 338 BC. Later, under Agathocles, it experienced further conflict and population displacement, eventually being destroyed by Phintias of Agrigentum or the Mamertines around 282 BC.

Medieval and Modern Eras

After its ancient decline, Gela persisted as a minor settlement under Roman and Byzantine rule. Known as "Terranova" under Arab influence and later refounded by Frederick II in 1233, the city developed a new urban center with fortifications. It passed through various feudal hands before being renamed Gela in 1927. The city played a role in World War II during the Allied invasion of Sicily.

The medieval period saw the establishment of "Terranova," which became a royal possession and later passed to noble families. The modern era brought significant changes, including the renaming to Gela and its involvement in WWII. Post-war, a large oil refinery was constructed, impacting the region's economy and environment before its eventual closure.

World War II Landing Site

On July 10, 1943, the beaches of Gela served as a critical landing site for the U.S. 1st Infantry Division and the 82nd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion during the Allied invasion of Sicily. The area withstood an armored counter-attack by Italian and German forces, and advanced landing airfields were established nearby, supporting subsequent operations in the Italian Campaign.

Geographical Context

Coastal Location

Gela is situated on the Mediterranean coast of Sicily, at the estuary of the Gela River. Its position on the southwestern coast makes it a significant geographical point on the island. The municipality also includes the coastal village of Manfria.

Geological Significance

The region lends its name to the Gelasian Age, a geological epoch within the Pleistocene Epoch. This geological designation underscores the long history and geological importance of the area.

Climate Profile

Mediterranean Conditions

Gela experiences a Mediterranean climate (Köppen: Csa), characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Precipitation is most common during the autumn and winter months. The data below provides detailed climatic information.

Climate data for Gela (1991–2020, extremes 1965–present)
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	22.0 (71.6)	23.4 (74.1)	27.6 (81.7)	33.2 (91.8)	34.6 (94.3)	38.0 (100.4)	41.4 (106.5)	40.0 (104.0)	34.4 (93.9)	33.0 (91.4)	28.4 (83.1)	23.6 (74.5)	41.4 (106.5)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	15.5 (59.9)	15.5 (59.9)	16.8 (62.2)	19.2 (66.6)	22.6 (72.7)	26.0 (78.8)	28.3 (82.9)	29.1 (84.4)	26.9 (80.4)	24.0 (75.2)	20.2 (68.4)	16.8 (62.2)	21.7 (71.1)
Daily mean °C (°F)	12.2 (54.0)	12.1 (53.8)	13.4 (56.1)	15.8 (60.4)	19.3 (66.7)	22.9 (73.2)	25.3 (77.5)	26.3 (79.3)	23.9 (75.0)	21.0 (69.8)	17.2 (63.0)	13.7 (56.7)	18.6 (65.5)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	9.1 (48.4)	8.7 (47.7)	10.0 (50.0)	12.2 (54.0)	15.9 (60.6)	19.9 (67.8)	22.4 (72.3)	23.4 (74.1)	20.9 (69.6)	17.9 (64.2)	14.1 (57.4)	10.7 (51.3)	15.4 (59.7)
Record low °C (°F)	0.0 (32.0)	0.0 (32.0)	0.0 (32.0)	3.8 (38.8)	5.8 (42.4)	11.0 (51.8)	13.6 (56.5)	15.6 (60.1)	12.4 (54.3)	7.8 (46.0)	2.4 (36.3)	1.8 (35.2)	0.0 (32.0)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	83.7 (3.30)	59.1 (2.33)	46.6 (1.83)	34.7 (1.37)	12.0 (0.47)	7.9 (0.31)	2.9 (0.11)	3.9 (0.15)	48.3 (1.90)	68.3 (2.69)	87.5 (3.44)	84.2 (3.31)	539.2 (21.23)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm)	7.4	6.8	5.6	4.4	2.3	1.0	0.3	0.6	3.7	5.0	7.5	8.0	52.4
Average relative humidity (%)	74.4	72.9	73.8	72.3	70.9	69.8	70.2	71.5	73.5	74.2	74.0	73.8	72.6
Average dew point °C (°F)	8.2 (46.8)	7.8 (46.0)	9.5 (49.1)	11.5 (52.7)	14.6 (58.3)	17.9 (64.2)	20.3 (68.5)	21.5 (70.7)	19.7 (67.5)	16.9 (62.4)	12.8 (55.0)	9.4 (48.9)	14.2 (57.6)
Mean monthly sunshine hours	185.4	186.2	230.6	255.6	307.5	325.5	357.4	335.7	263.4	225.1	188.1	173.3	3,033.9
Source: NOAA, Servizio Meteorologico

Key Landmarks

Greek Acropolis

The ancient Acropolis of Gela features the remnants of Greek temples, including a notable 8-meter Doric column. Archaeological findings from this site, such as Attic vases, are housed in various museums, offering a glimpse into the city's classical past.

Timolean Walls

Dating from the 4th century BC, these walls are significant for their construction method, combining large stone blocks with brickwork. They represent advanced defensive engineering and are preserved within a large park, offering insight into Gela's military architecture.

Natural Reserves

The area includes the Natural Reserve of Biviere di Gela, a coastal lake surrounded by dunes, and the Manfria area with its characteristic Mediterranean landscape and the historic Torre di Manfria (Manfria Tower), reflecting the region's natural beauty and historical structures.

Archaeological Discoveries

Ancient Emporium

Excavations in the Bosco Littorio area, near the ancient port, have revealed an extensive emporium complex from the 7th-6th centuries BC. This site includes workshops, warehouses, and shops, with the Museum of Navigation located nearby.

Greek Baths

Unique in Sicily, the Greek Baths of Gela consist of two rooms with distinctive bathtub arrangements and a wastewater system. The construction materials and design offer valuable insights into ancient bathing practices and engineering.

Maritime Finds

Recent archaeological work has uncovered significant finds, including the oldest Greek shipwreck (circa 500 BC), which is unique and destined for the Museum of Navigation. Three other ancient boats have also been recovered, highlighting Gela's maritime connections.

Notable Figures & Connections

Aeschylus

The celebrated ancient Greek tragedian Aeschylus lived in Gela and died there in 456 BC. His presence underscores the city's cultural significance during the classical period.

Ancient Leaders

Key figures from Gela's past include Gelo, who moved his government to Syracuse, and his brother Hiero I, who governed Gela. Polyzelos also played a role in the city's governance.

Global Connections

Eleusina, Greece

Gela shares a historical connection with Eleusina, Greece, reflecting its ancient Greek origins and cultural ties across the Mediterranean.

Wittingen, Germany

The twinning with Wittingen signifies modern international relationships and cultural exchange.

Nordkapp, Norway

The partnership with Nordkapp highlights Gela's global reach and diverse international connections.

Sporting Heritage

Football Club

Gela is represented in football by S.S.D. Città di Gela. The team plays its home matches at Stadio Vincenzo Presti. Its most notable performance was achieving 12th position in Group B of the 2010–2011 Lega Pro Prima Divisione.

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References

LâAcropoli di Gela: origini, storia e ritrovamenti importanti https://gela.italiani.it/acropoli-di-gela/

Diodorus Siculus, Library 8-40, 8.23.1

Thucydides, The Peloponnesian War, 4.58

Un gioiello unico nella Magna Grecia: i Bagni greci di Gela https://gela.italiani.it/bagni-di-gela/

Ancient Shipwreck accessed Oct 8,2024

Ancient necropolis discovered during roadworks in Sicily

A full list of references for this article are available at the Gela Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not historical or travel advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, archaeological consultation, or travel planning. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Gela: A Sicilian Chronicle of Ages

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Gela: An Ancient Crossroads 🌍

🏺 Foundation and Magna Graecia

🎭 Cultural Hub

⚔️ Strategic Significance

A Tapestry of Time ⏳

🏛️ Ancient Era

🏰 Medieval and Modern Eras

✈️ World War II Landing Site

Geographical Context 🗺️

🌊 Coastal Location

⏳ Geological Significance

Climate Profile ☀️

🌡️ Mediterranean Conditions

Key Landmarks 🏛️

🏛️ Greek Acropolis

🧱 Timolean Walls

🌳 Natural Reserves

Archaeological Discoveries 🏺

🏺 Ancient Emporium

🛁 Greek Baths

🚢 Maritime Finds

Notable Figures & Connections 👤

✍️ Aeschylus

👑 Ancient Leaders

Global Connections 🤝

🇬🇷 Eleusina, Greece

🇩🇪 Wittingen, Germany

🇳🇴 Nordkapp, Norway

Sporting Heritage ⚽

⚽ Football Club

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Gela: An Ancient Crossroads

Foundation and Magna Graecia

Cultural Hub

Strategic Significance

A Tapestry of Time

Ancient Era

Medieval and Modern Eras

World War II Landing Site

Geographical Context

Coastal Location

Geological Significance

Climate Profile

Mediterranean Conditions

Key Landmarks

Greek Acropolis

Timolean Walls

Natural Reserves

Archaeological Discoveries

Ancient Emporium

Greek Baths

Maritime Finds

Notable Figures & Connections

Aeschylus

Ancient Leaders

Global Connections

Eleusina, Greece

Wittingen, Germany

Nordkapp, Norway

Sporting Heritage

Football Club

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice