The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympieion, is an archaeological site in central Athens, southeast of the Acropolis. Its surviving Corinthian columns and nearby Hadrian's Arch make it a useful stop on a walk through the city's historic centre.
- Location: Central Athens, near the Acropolis and Plaka.
- What remains: Fifteen columns still stand; a sixteenth fell in 1852.
- Access: Check the official site for current admission, opening hours and access conditions.
A brief history of the Temple of Olympian Zeus
The Temple of Olympian Zeus took centuries to complete, beginning as a project under Athens's tyrants and finishing under Roman rule. Dedicated to Zeus, chief deity of ancient Greek religion, it began construction in the 6th century BCE under Peisistratus and his sons. Work was completed in the 2nd century CE during the reign of the Roman emperor Hadrian.
In its completed form, the temple had 104 columns. Its scale reflects a project that crossed eras, from ancient Athens to the Roman Empire.
What remains at the archaeological site
Fifteen of the temple's Corinthian columns remain standing, while a sixteenth fell in 1852. The columns give a sense of the structure's scale, even though the original temple no longer stands intact.
Hadrian's Arch is close by, but it is a separate monument rather than part of the temple ruins. The site sits near both the Acropolis and the historic area of Plaka, placing these landmarks within the same part of central Athens.
What should you know about tickets and opening hours?
Check the official site before you go, and confirm that the information specifically covers the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The Ministry's ticketing terms state that a ticket is valid for one person and generally allows a single entry to each site named on it; that does not establish the temple's current ticket arrangements.
How do you walk to the temple from central Athens?
The temple is a practical stop on a central Athens walk, about 0.6 km from Hermes Hotel. Its central setting also makes it straightforward to combine with a stroll through the historic centre. A stay at Hermes Hotel is convenient for visiting the temple and the historic-centre sights.
What nearby sights can you pair with the temple?
Pair the temple grounds with nearby Hadrian's Arch, then continue towards the Acropolis or Plaka. Keep the arch distinct in your plans: it stands near the temple but is a separate monument. The Acropolis tickets and entry details are worth checking when planning a visit there.
FAQs
What is the Temple of Olympian Zeus also called?
It is also known as the Olympieion.
How many columns are still standing?
Fifteen columns remain standing at the site.
Is Hadrian's Arch part of the temple?
No. It is a separate monument near the temple ruins.