Explore the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens Greece
Nestled in the heart of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus stands as a testament to ancient grandeur and architectural mastery. This colossal temple, also known as the Olympieion, began its construction in the 6th century B.C. and was finally completed in 131 A.D. under the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian. Once boasting 104 towering Corinthian columns, each soaring 17 meters high, today visitors can marvel at 15 magnificent columns still standing proudly, with a sixteenth lying where it fell centuries ago.
Discovering a historic wonder with stunning acropolis views
The temple is set on the site of an ancient outdoor sanctuary devoted to Zeus, the chief Olympian god, offering a profound glimpse into classical Greek religion and culture. Visitors often praise the breathtaking panoramic views of the Acropolis visible from the grounds, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Despite only a fraction of the original structure remaining, the sheer scale of the ruins conveys the immense ambition of its creators.
Tip: Consider purchasing the combined ticket for €30 that grants access to seven iconic archaeological sites in Athens, all within walking distance. This is not only economical but also enriches your exploration experience.
Planning your visit and accessibility
The Temple of Olympian Zeus welcomes visitors daily with extended opening hours during the high season from April through October (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM) and shorter hours in the low season from November to March (8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The site features free parking options and is suitable for families, including children, providing an enriching educational outing.
Accessibility Note: The temple grounds are largely accessible to visitors with disabilities, especially those using wheelchairs, with assistance available to ensure a comfortable experience.
What visitors love and what to expect
Visitors are captivated by the temple's historical significance and the awe-inspiring scale of its ruins. Many highlight the architectural brilliance evident even in its partial remains, with some praising the Olympieion as a masterpiece blending ancient grandeur with elements of modern elegance in surrounding renovations. However, some note ongoing restoration work means parts of the site are temporarily less accessible, and scaffolding may be present, which slightly affects photography opportunities.
- What are the opening hours of the Temple of Olympian Zeus? The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the high season (April 1st to October 31st) and from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the low season (November 1st to March 31st).
- How much is the entrance fee? The entrance fee is €8 during the high season and €4 during the low season. A combined ticket for €30 grants access to multiple archaeological sites, including the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
- Is the temple wheelchair accessible? The archaeological site is largely accessible for visitors with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users, with the help of a companion.
