Ancient stone, soft light, and the quiet guardians of Valle dei Templi.
Introduction
There are very few places left in the world where people haven’t heard of ancient Greek gods like Zeus and Hercules, or the stories of Homer’s Odyssey. Valle dei Templi stands as a living reminder of what those gods once meant to an entire civilization. The ruins you can still walk through today are nothing short of breathtaking—equal parts awe-inspiring and humbling. Though time and a shifting planet have worn these structures into shadows of their former glory, many of the stone temples remain remarkably intact thousands of years later.
This beautiful loop of ancient history is also home to gardens, citrus trees, olive trees, carob trees, and the mountainous terrain Sicily is so famous for. But there is one group in particular that has truly claimed Valle dei Templi as their own. Scattered across the site is a small clan of fluffy, lazy, sleepy, and unbelievably content dogs that have been lovingly nicknamed The Dogs of the Gods.
The Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing
Mastering the sacred art of doing absolutely nothing.
For the most part, these dogs don’t even acknowledge that you exist. They are far too busy lounging in fresh clover, stretching in the sun, or practicing the sacred art of doing absolutely nothing.
The Yellow Lab at the Entrance
Sun-soaked, unbothered, and very much on god-time.
The Castle Guardian
An enthusiastic escort with a serious commitment to head scratches.
When “no dogs allowed” includes the Dogs of the Gods themselves.
Not All Sunshine
Even sacred places carry difficult truths.
Final Thoughts
A place we’ll never forget — and will always protect.
GO TO VALLE DEI TEMPLI.
Field Notes
Infrequent letters accompanying new essays and photo work.