Cattolica Eraclea was founded in 1610 by the prince of Siculiana, thanks to a licentia populandi. The new town was called Cattolica, in honour of Philip III, also called "His Catholic Majesty". Its second name, Eraclea, was added after the Italian Unification, as a reminder of its close link with tha ancient Greek colony, located not too far from the town.
Eraclea Minoa was founded by Greek colonists from Selinunte, originally with the name of Minoa, probably referring to Minos, king of Crete, having come to Sicily in pursuit od Daedalus.
The archaeological excavations, started in 1950, brought to light the Greek Theatre (V century b.C.), the Antiquarium, the necropolis and some Greek and Roman residences, in addition to a section of the ancient defensive walls.