Temple of Olympian Zeus: A Testament to Ancient Greece

The Temple of Olympian Zeus took almost 650 years to construct. This monumental structure dominates a vast archaeological site located below the Acropolis in Central Athens. Remarkably, it was not originally intended to honor Olympian Zeus at all, and surprisingly, it isn’t even purely Greek in origin.

History of the Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, known as the Olympeion, is situated in a 15-acre archaeological park southeast of the Acropolis. When fully realized, the temple was composed of 104 stunning marble columns, each standing just over 56 feet tall, with Corinthian capitals showcasing intricate carvings. The temple measured 362 feet long and 143.3 feet wide, housing colossal statues of both Zeus and the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

If you visit the site today, you need to stretch your imagination to picture this immense temple. Currently, only 16 massive marble columns remain—15 still standing while one was toppled by winds in the late 19th century.

Other Highlights to See

Historically, the site was lined with Sanctuaries dedicated to various deities and nymphs, transforming the area into a religious haven. Even today, the temple platform offers a rare quiet corner within bustling Athens. As you explore the surroundings, be sure to look for:

• The Doric Temple of Apollo Delphinios
• The Delphinion Court, a spacious area dating back to 500 B.C.
• The gates of the Themistoclean Wall, built to defend against ancient Persian invasions
• Hadrian’s Arch, a monumental double arch dedicated to Hadrian and Theseus

Wander through the trees along the eastern edge of the temple site, which was once a sacred riverside area. Notable remains include:

• A small temple dedicated to Kronos and Rhea
• A rocky slope dedicated to Gaia
• The remnants of the Parilissia Sanctuaries, where offerings were made to river gods
• The Church of Aghia Fotini, nestled among subtropical plants

Things to Know

• Location: The temple is centrally located in Athens. To access the site, head toward the main entrance on Leof. Vasilissis Olgas. There’s a small parking area available nearby.
• Hours: The site is open daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from October to April, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. from May to September. It is closed on select holidays.
• Admission: Tickets are priced at €6, or consider the Special Ticket Package for €30 which includes access to several other important sites in Athens.
• Tip: Bring a hat and water, as shade is sparse around the ruins.

What to See Nearby

While visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus, consider exploring these nearby attractions:

• The Acropolis: just over a mile away
• The Acropolis Museum: approximately 800 meters away
• Monastiraki Flea Market: about a mile from the temple
• Syntagma Square: the governmental and ceremonial heart of Athens
• The Plaka: conveniently located across the street, west of Hadrian’s Arch