The Kolymbetra Garden occupies a natural depression between two ancient ridges at the heart of the Valle dei Templi archaeological park. This was the site of the ancient Kolymbetra — a huge artificial reservoir built by Carthaginian prisoners of war after 480 BC, which supplied water to the city and supported fish farming on an industrial scale. When the reservoir eventually silted up, it became a garden, and medieval Arab farmers planted it with citrus and almond trees that still produce fruit today.
The FAI (Italy's National Trust equivalent) restored the garden in the 1990s and manages it as both a working orchard and an outdoor extension of the archaeological site. Ancient walls, cisterns, and a Byzantine-era tomb are scattered among the trees. It is one of the most atmospheric places in the whole park — shaded, fragrant, and quieter than the temple ridge above. Entry is on the combined park ticket or separately.