Agrigento, a charming coastal city located on the southwest coast of Sicily, is facing the negative impacts of over-tourism, as highlighted in the 2025 Fodor’s Travel ‘Go and No Lists’. The city, already designated as a future Italian Capital of Culture for 2025, is at risk of being loved to the point of ruin. The surge in visitors is putting a strain on Agrigento’s cultural heritage and environment, with potential irreversible consequences.
One of the main challenges Agrigento is facing is a severe water crisis, which is exacerbated by the increasing number of tourists. The historic hilltop town has been experiencing water shortages, leading residents to rely on cisterns and tanker water deliveries. However, climate changes and a persistent drought have pushed the situation to a critical point. Smaller hospitality businesses, such as guesthouses and boutique hotels, struggle to maintain a water supply, especially during peak months like August. This shortage hinders their ability to offer basic facilities like showers and functioning toilets. While larger establishments may have the resources to import water, smaller businesses often lack the storage space and funds to do so.
A combination of factors, including an outdated underground water system and inadequate governance, is blamed for the water crisis in Agrigento. Efforts to upgrade the water network have been ongoing since 2011, with little progress. The Italian government has allocated €20 million to address the issue by purchasing water tankers and drilling new wells in Sicily. However, as of July, only 17 percent of the planned work has been completed. The drought not only impacts the daily lives of residents but also poses a threat to Agrigento’s historical and cultural landmarks, such as the iconic Valley of the Temples.
The Valley of the Temples, a significant historical site showcasing Agrigento’s rich history, is at risk due to the ongoing drought. The site, which welcomed 1,000,000 visitors in 2023, is a prime example of ancient Greek art and architecture in Magna Graecia. Professor Giuseppe Abbate warns that the drought not only endangers the Valley of the Temples but also the surrounding agricultural landscape, which adds to the city’s allure. Despite discussions to improve Sicily’s water infrastructure since 2011, progress has been slow. A state of crisis and water emergency has been declared in Agrigento, affecting irrigation and drinking water until the end of the year.
The Sicilian destination is struggling under the weight of over-tourism and the severe drought conditions. The region’s tourism industry faces challenges due to the water crisis, putting at risk events like the Agrigento Capital of Culture 2025. Sicily is experiencing extreme drought conditions, as rated by the Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), with the island’s regional president reporting significant losses in agriculture and livestock. These challenges highlight the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices and effective water management to protect Agrigento’s cultural heritage and environment for future generations.