This breathtaking ruin is the remains of a temple that commemorates Zeus, King of the Olympian Gods. Its construction began in the sixth century BC, but for reasons unknown was not completed until the second century AD, when it became the largest temple in Greece.
During the centuries following the fall of the Roman Empire, it suffered severe disuse, having been extensively quarried for building materials. Yet some remains still stand today and prove to be an impressive and popular attraction with visitors.
Excavation was carried out in 1889-1896 by Francis Penrose of the British School in Athens, as well as in 1922 by the German archaeologist Gabriel Welter, and in the 1960s by Greek archaeologists.
Today, just 15 columns remain standing from the original 104, and a 16th column lies on the ground where it fell during a storm in 1852. Don't miss the various free viewing days, which take place on selected dates throughout the calendar year (see below).
Opening Hours
Summer Period (01/04 - 31/10): 8am - 8pm
Winter Period (01/11 - 31/03): 8:30am - 3pm
Admission Fee
Full: €4, Reduced: €2
Free admission days
6th March, in memory of Melina Mercouri
18th April, International Monuments Day
18th May, International Museums Day
5th June, International Environment Day
The last weekend of September annually, European Heritage Days
Sundays in the period between 1st November and 31st March
National Holidays
The first Sunday of every month, except for July, August and September
27th September, International Tourism Day
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Visit Meteora’s monasteries and hidden hermit caves with a local guide. Enjoy optional lunch in Kastraki, plus seaside brunch and sunset dinner with stunning views just steps from the sea.
Drive along the Athenian coastline to the magnificent Temple of Poseidon on this tour and admire the sunset in Greece. Stop in the area to have dinner by the sea, as you watch the sun go down.
Escape Athens for the day on a day cruise to the islands of Agistri, Aegina, and Moni or Metopi. Swim in clear waters, explore islands, and savour a Greek buffet with unlimited drinks on board.
Bring the whole family along for an eclectic mix of modern and ancient sights on an electric bike tour of Athens. Enjoy amazing views, discover hidden gems, and glide down the picturesque streets of Plaka.
Take a carbon-neutral day trip from Athens to explore Mycenae, a major center of Greek civilization. Visit the picturesque town of Nafplio and admire the theater of Epidaurus (entry not included).
Visit one of the most impressive private collections of modern and contemporary art and discover rare masterpieces by world-renowned artists including Picasso, van Gogh, Monet, Cézanne, and Gauguin, with this entry ticket.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient Mycenae. Admire the most famous ancient theater of Epidaurus and add a modern element to your day with a short stop to the coastal city of Nafplio.
Enjoy the sunset at Cape Sounio on this evening bus tour with zero carbon footprint. Drive through the suburbs of the Greek Riviera and watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea from the Temple of Poseidon
Take a full-day cruise from Athens to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina with lunch, live entertainment, and scenic views—perfect for a relaxing island escape.
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