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Most Famous Greek Temples & Where To Find Them 

The ruins of Ancient Greece can be seen all over the country and even in Turkey and the south of Italy. These were important spots where people went to worship the gods, but they were also places where statues of the gods were kept safe. In Ancient Greece, they believed that the spirits of the gods could be found inside the statues. 

You can understand why such temples were so grand and intricate from that description. While many lie in ruins today, some are exceptionally well preserved, and you can head out and see many of them on your travels. However, remember that the Ancient Greeks moved around and conquered plenty of land! For that reason, these temples are spread over a huge space. 

Temple of Hera, Olympia

This is perhaps one of the most important, if not THE most important, of all Greek temples. Located in Olympia, the temple is dedicated to Hera, the most important goddess in the pantheon. This is the oldest temple found in Olympia, and it was thought to have been built in 590 BC before being partially destroyed by a massive earthquake in the 4^th century AD. 

Just before the Olympic games, you’ll see the Olympic flame lit at the altar of the huge temple before it is carried around the world. 

Temple of Poseidon, Sounio

Built between 444-440BC, this vast temple is one of the most important in Ancient Greece. The temple is in a beautiful spot, overlooking the sea, and stands more than 60 meters high. The sunset views from here are stunning. 

The temple is made of marble and has six columns on the outer sides and 13 on the longer edge. Around 13 columns are still there, with the rest having fallen due to environmental factors. 

Temple of Apollo, Corinth

The Temple of Apollo in Corinth is one of the earliest temples on the mainland, and it was built in 560 BC. Made of limestone, the temple was the mascot for the city of Corinth and was linked to the city’s prosperity. 

The temple was renovated during the Roman period so that the Emperor could use it, and these days it is used as an emblem of the city. 

Temple of Apollo, Delphi

Located in Delphi, the Temple of Apollo is one of the most important still standing today, and it is thought that construction was completed around 510 BC. History says that Pythia, a famous oracle, operated her services from the temple. 

Much of the temple was destroyed in 373 BC by an earthquake, but the ruins can still be visited today. 

Temple of Aphaea, Aegina

You can find the Temple of Aphaea on the island of Aegina, which was built in 500 BC. The current temple stands on the former remains of an older temple that was destroyed in 510 BC. 

This temple was built in the Doric style and had 32 columns in its original design. There were many sculptures inside the temple, including sculptures depicting the battle of Troy. You can see these sculptures in Munich, but some parts can be seen at the original temple. 

The Parthenon, Athens

Of course, everyone knows about the Parthenon, and it’s undoubtedly a temple you should visit. This is one of the most important buildings in Ancient Greece and was built between 447 and 438 BC. It sits on top of the Acropolis in Athens and was dedicated to Athena, the deity of Athens. 

The Parthenon was built when the Athenian Empire was in serious power and was deemed a celebration of strength. 

 

 

Temple of Athena Nike, Athens

On the Acropolis, you will also find the Temple of Athena Nike. This temple dates back to around 420 BC and is dedicated to Nike and Athena. The temple was designed by Kallikrates and is one of the most visited temples in the complex. 

You can see the temple on the southwestern corner of the Acropolis. 

Temple of Hephaistos, Athens

This is undoubtedly the best-preserved temple in the whole of Greece and is dedicated to the god of fire, Hephaistos. The temple has six columns on one side and 13 on the other, and it is thought to date back to around 450 BC made of marble. You can find it on the Agora in Athens, north-western. 

Now you have just a few Greek temples to visit; you have to decide which one of these temples in Greece, you will see first.

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