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