12 Beautiful Ancient Temples in Greece

Greece is home to some of the most breathtaking ancient temples, showing the rich cultural and architectural legacy of Greek civilization. These sacred sites offer a glimpse into the country’s glorious past, from the iconic Parthenon in Athens to the mystical Temple of Apollo at Delphi.

Whether you are searching for spiritual serenity or historical exploration, visiting the temples in Greece is an unforgettable experience.

Table of Content

1. Parthenon
2. Temple of Olympian Zeus
3. Temple of Poseidon
4. Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Bassae
5. Temple of Hephaestus
6. Erechtheion
7. Temple of Athena Nike
8. Temple of Apollo, Delphi
9. Temple of Aphaia, Aegina
10. Temple of Zeus, Olympia
11. Temple of Hera, Olympia
12. Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Corinth
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1. Parthenon

Parthenon

Built between 447-432 BCE, the Parthenon is the most iconic temple in Greece. Located atop the Acropolis of Athens, it honors the goddess Athena, the city’s patron deity—this masterpiece of Doric architecture. The temple combines sophisticated mathematical precision with artistic excellence, making it one of the most famous temples in Greece.

Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
Timings: April to October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November to March: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: The Athens and Epidaurus Festival often includes performances with the Parthenon as a backdrop.
How to Reach: Take the metro to Acropolis station. The temple is a 10-minute walk uphill from there.

Features:

The Parthenon has 46 outer Doric columns arranged in an 8×17 pattern.
Special design tricks were used to make the building look perfect to the eye.
It holds the famous Parthenon frieze, a carved artwork.
Ongoing restoration work is being done to protect and preserve it.
Visitor facilities and viewing areas have been recently improved.

2. Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, among the most temples constructed in the ancient world, took over 700 years to complete. This temple in Greece honors Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods. Its massive Corinthian columns make it one of the best temples in Greece for understanding the scale of ancient Greek architecture.

Address: Athens 105 57, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Occasional light shows illuminate the temple at night during the summer months
How to Reach: Take the metro to Acropolis or Syntagma station. The temple is a 10-15 minute walk from either.

Features:

The temple has 15 remaining Corinthian columns from the original 104.
Each of these columns stands an impressive 17 meters tall.
New informational displays now explain the temple’s rich history.
It is an important example of Corinthian architectural design.
The site offers excellent photo opportunities with the Acropolis in the background.

3. Temple of Poseidon

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, the Temple of Poseidon offers one of the most spectacular views in Greece. Built around 440 BCE during the Golden Age of Athens, this temple honors Poseidon, god of the sea. The temple’s location and architecture create an unforgettable silhouette against the Mediterranean sky.

Address: Cape Sounion, Lavreotiki 195 00, Greece
Timings: April to October: 9:30 AM to sunset; November to March: 9:30 AM to sunset
Events: Summer solstice celebrations are held annually at the temple
How to Reach: Take the KTEL bus from Athens to Sounion. The temple is a short walk from the bus stop.

Features:

The temple still has 16 Doric columns remaining out of the original 34 that were built.
It is situated on a spectacular clifftop that rises 60 meters above the sea, offering breathtaking views.
The famous poet Lord Byron carved his signature into the base of the temple, leaving a historic mark.
In 2020, a modern lighting system was installed to highlight the beauty of the structure at night.
A visitor center nearby now features historical exhibits that provide insights into the temple’s past.

4. Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Bassae

This well-preserved temple, hidden in the mountains of Arcadia, stands as one of the most remarkable and mysterious Greek temples. Built between 450-400 BCE, it combines all three classical Greek architectural orders – Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian – in a unique design that has fascinated architects for centuries.

Address: Skliros 270 61, Greece
Timings: Daily 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (winter), 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer)
Events: Occasional classical music concerts are held at the site
How to Reach: The temple is remote. Drive or take a guided tour from Olympia or Kalamata.

Features:

The temple has a unique north-south orientation, which sets it apart from other ancient structures.
It features the first known use of the Corinthian capital, marking a significant architectural milestone.
Some of the original marble roof tiles are still visible, showcasing its ancient craftsmanship.
A protective tent structure has been installed to aid in the conservation of the temple.
Continuous archaeological research is being conducted to uncover more about its history and significance.

5. Temple of Hephaestus

Standing prominently on Agoraios Kolonos hill, the Temple of Hephaestus represents the best-preserved ancient Greek temple in the world. Built around 450 BCE, this temple dedicated to Hephaestus, god of metallurgy and fire, showcases classical Doric architecture at its finest.

Address: Thiseio, Athens 105 55, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Cultural events and festivals throughout the year
How to Reach: Take the metro to Thiseio station. The temple is a 5-minute walk from there.

Features:

The temple features a complete Doric peripteral design, showcasing the classic style of ancient Greek architecture.
A total of 34 original columns are still standing, preserving its majestic structure.
The intricate friezes of the temple depict mythological scenes, adding to its artistic and historical value.
For centuries, the temple served as a Greek Orthodox church, reflecting its adaptability and cultural importance.
It is surrounded by the Ancient Agora archaeological park, offering a rich historical context and stunning views.

6. Erechtheion

The Erechtheion stands out among Acropolis monuments for its elegant Ionic architecture and unique asymmetrical design. Built between 421-406 BCE, this temple honors both Athena and Poseidon while housing ancient wooden cult statues and sacred relics.

Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
Timings: April to October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November to March: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Special exhibitions focusing on temple restoration
How to Reach: Take the metro to Acropolis station. The temple is within the Acropolis complex.

Features:

The temple is famous for its iconic Porch of the Caryatids, featuring statues of maidens as supporting columns.
Its complex, multi-level architecture showcases the advanced design skills of ancient builders.
It is located near the sacred olive tree, an important symbol in Greek mythology.
The original Caryatids are preserved in the Acropolis Museum to protect them from damage.
Ongoing restoration work ensures the preservation of this historic structure for future generations.

7. Temple of Athena Nike

This small but exquisite temple, dedicated to Athena as Victory, guards the entrance to the Acropolis. Built around 420 BCE, its sophisticated Ionic design and continuous frieze make it a jewel of classical architecture. The temple’s strategic position and rich sculptural decoration reflect its importance in ancient Athenian religion and politics.

Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
Timings: April to October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November to March: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Part of broader Acropolis cultural events calendar
How to Reach: Take the metro to Acropolis station. The temple is within the Acropolis complex.

Features:

The temple is built in elegant Ionic style, known for its slender columns and detailed designs.
It has a continuous frieze that shows scenes of battles from ancient times.
The parapet reliefs were recently restored to bring back their original beauty.
The temple still has its original marble base, a sign of its ancient craftsmanship.
It stands in a strategic spot, overlooking the main entrance to the city.

8. Temple of Apollo, Delphi

The Temple of Apollo at Delphi, home to the famous Oracle, was considered the center of the ancient world. Built in the 4th century BCE, this temple played a crucial role in ancient Greek religion and politics through its prophetic traditions.

Address: Delphi 330 54, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Annual Delphi Economic Forum includes archaeological events
How to Reach: Take a KTEL bus from Athens to Delphi. The archaeological site is a short walk from the town center.

Features:

The site was home to a sacred oracle, an important place of prophecy in ancient times.
It is set in an impressive mountain location, adding to its mystical and breathtaking atmosphere.
Archaeologists are still making new discoveries at the site, revealing more about its history.
An ancient theater is located nearby, showcasing the cultural significance of the area.
A modern museum houses artifacts from the temple, offering visitors a closer look at its rich past.

9. Temple of Aphaia, Aegina

The Temple of Aphaia represents one of the most complete Doric temples surviving from ancient Greece. Built around 500 BCE on the island of Aegina, it provides crucial evidence for the development of classical Greek architecture.

Address: Aegina 180 10, Greece
Timings: April to October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November to March: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Events: Ancient ritual reenactments
How to Reach: Take a ferry from Piraeus to Aegina, then a local bus or taxi to the temple.

Features:

The temple features a complete Doric peripteral design, showcasing classical Greek architecture.
Original traces of polychromy remain visible, highlighting the temple’s vibrant past.
The temple offers a spectacular view over the Saronic Gulf, enhancing its scenic appeal.
Recent studies on the temple’s decoration have uncovered valuable insights into ancient artistic practices.
An archaeological museum on-site displays artifacts that deepen understanding of the temple’s history.

10. Temple of Zeus, Olympia

The Temple of Zeus at Olympia, built in the 5th century BCE, once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the colossal statue of Zeus. This massive Doric temple dominated the sanctuary of ancient Olympia. Imagine the grandeur of this temple that served as the centerpiece of the ancient Olympic Games.

Address: Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Olympic flame lighting ceremonies
How to Reach: Take a train or bus to Olympia from Athens or Patras. The archaeological site is walkable from the modern town.

Features:

The massive dimensions of the temple highlight its grandeur and architectural significance.
The original sculptural pediments have been preserved, showcasing intricate artwork from ancient times.
The site was once home to the ancient statue of Zeus, a monumental piece of Greek art.
New archaeological discoveries continue to shed light on the temple’s history and cultural importance.
The temple has a historical connection to the Olympic Games, linking it to ancient Greek sporting traditions.

11. Temple of Hera, Olympia

The Temple of Hera represents one of the earliest monumental temples in Greece. Built around 590 BCE, this temple held a special place in ancient Olympic ceremonies, housing the table where victors’ olive wreaths were displayed.

Address: Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Annual Olympic Games commemoration ceremonies
How to Reach: Take a train or bus to Olympia from Athens or Patras. The archaeological site is walkable from the modern town.

Features:

The site is the original location of the Olympic ceremony, where the ancient Games were celebrated.
The evolution of Doric architecture is visible in the temple’s design, reflecting changes in Greek architectural style over time.
Remains of the ancient altar can still be seen, providing insight into rituals performed during the Olympic Games.
The location is also where the Olympic torch was historically lit, symbolizing the beginning of the Games.
New historical discoveries continue to enrich our understanding of the site’s significance and its role in ancient traditions.

12. Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Corinth

This temple in ancient Corinth honored Apollo as patron of music and poetry. Built in the 5th century BCE, its remaining Doric columns testify to Corinth’s former prosperity and architectural achievement.

Address: Ancient Corinth 200 07, Greece
Timings: Summer (April 1 to October 31): 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Winter (November 1 to March 31): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Events: Classical music performances
How to Reach: Take a train or bus from Athens to Corinth, then a local bus to Ancient Corinth.

Features:

The temple is a prime example of the Doric architectural style, known for its simple yet powerful design.
Its strategic location in the heart of the ancient city made it a central point of religious and cultural importance.
Recent conservation work has helped preserve the temple, ensuring its longevity for future generations.
Improved visitor interpretation provides a deeper understanding of the temple’s historical and cultural significance.
An archaeological museum nearby offers additional insights into the site’s history and its artifacts.

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FAQs

When is the best time to visit temples in Greece?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Major sites are open year-round but have shorter hours in winter.

What is the dress code for visiting Greek temples?

There is no dress code. However, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Sun protection is recommended. Some sites require modest dress for conservation reasons.

Are cameras allowed at Greek temple sites?

Photography is generally permitted, but flash photography may be restricted in some areas. Tripods often require special permission.

How much time should I allocate for temple visits?

Plan 2-3 hours for major sites like the Acropolis and 1-2 hours for smaller temples. Add extra time for museums.

Are non-archaeologists welcome at these sites?

Yes, all sites welcome respectful visitors. Many offer guided tours and educational materials for various knowledge levels.

What are the best temples to visit if I have limited time?

Some of the best temples in Greece to visit are the Acropolis complex (Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike) and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which offer excellent overviews of Greek architecture.