Walls of Hipponion – a Testament to the age of Magna Graecia in Italy

History and Description

The Greek walls of Hipponion, which once surrounded and defended the ancient Greek polis now known as Vibo Valentia, represent one of the most imposing testimonies of the Magna Graecia period in Italy. Founded between 625 and 600 B.C. by colonists from Locri Epizephyrii on a pre-existing indigenous settlement called Veip, the original fortification is believed to have stretched for about six to seven kilometers, reaching a height of roughly ten meters, with defensive towers placed every 25–40 meters. Today, visitors can admire an exposed section of about 500 meters located in Trappeto Vecchio, where eight towers remain—none exceeding four meters in their current state. The walls are built from squared blocks of sandstone and calcarenite, arranged using the double-face technique with transverse walls and an internal clay fill. They underwent several construction phases, the earliest dating back to the 6th century B.C. Excavations conducted between 1916–1917 and 1921–1922 brought the remains to light, and today the walls, partially visible and partially integrated into the modern urban fabric, remain one of the strongest symbols of Vibo Valentia’s ancient past.

Curiosities

The Greek walls of Hipponion are not merely a static monument but a living site that has recently gained attention thanks to new excavation campaigns, special public openings, and preservation projects. In particular, the 2025 excavation campaign provided fresh insights into the various construction phases of the defensive enclosure.

Access Information

The site can only be visited on special occasions and during organized events.

Directions

Located in Trappeto Vecchio, the walls can be reached by following an urban road toward the outskirts, on foot from the city center, or by local bus.

Ancient and majestic, the Greek walls of Hipponion represent a precious link between past and present — a must-see for those wishing to explore the deepest roots of Calabria’s history.

Photo credits: DomBeats93 (Wikipedia) – Licensed by CC 4.0