Heraklea, a colony of Taranto and Thourioi, was founded in the 5th century B.C. on the site of Siris, an Ionian colony, on a high plain between Sagri and Sinni.
In the Middle Ages, Policoro – founded in the area – became more important and the remains of the ancient civilization were forgotten.
Today, the National Siritide Museum has on view important remains from the excavations of Siris, Heraklea, necropolisis and numerous sanctuaries in the area. The collection covers a vast period of time, from the metal ages to the Medieval period.
Nearby, it is possible to visit the remains of the Sanctuary of Demetra as well as an ancient temple.