The flames devastate Sicily, leaving a dramatic situation in which more than 50 fire fronts remain active. During the night of Tuesday, the fire has put at risk the Greek temple of the archaeological park of Segesta, which is located in the northwest of the island and dates from the fifth century BC, according to the Greek City Times.

The temple was saved thanks to the continued efforts of the firefighters, but the fire destroyed the souvenir shop and the cafeteria of the archaeological park. Hotels and rental rooms near the area were evacuated as a precaution. Francesco Groppuso, mayor of Segesta, expressed his anger at considering the flames the work of arsonists.

The temple, of Doric origin and especially well preserved, is located on a hill on the outskirts of the city. Its construction dates back to 420 BC and, although the city did not have a Greek population at that time, it is thought to have been built by an Athenian architect.. Others believe that the indigenous Elymians were in charge of its construction.

The fire also threatens other tourist centers on the island, which have had to be evacuated. Palermo International Airport was forced to close early Tuesday morning as flames ripped through the airport's perimeter.

After a week with temperatures that have reached 46 degrees due to the Charonte heat wave, the fire has spread throughout the island, leaving at least 5 people dead.. The flames are approaching tourist towns such as Catania and Taormina, while the authorities ask the population to avoid going outdoors due to the risk of poisoning.

More than 1,500 people have been displaced from towns such as Alimenusa, Gangi, Blufi, Misilmeri, Cefalù Bolognetta, Santa Flavia, Villabate, Partinico, San Cipirello and Corleone, where some houses have been completely charred.