Temples in Athens

The Parthenon is an iconic landmark of Acropolis, Greece. This ancient temple is dedicated to Athena, one of the most cherished and famous Greek deities. Built in 447BC, it attracts tourists from around the world because of its perfect symmetry, towering columns, sculptures of Greek art, and more than 2000 years of rich history.

The Erechtheion or Erechtheum is an ancient Greek temple on the north side of the Acropolis which was dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. Its distinctive building has large columns are statues depicting women. Four of the original six statues are now on display in the Acropolis Museum.

The Temple of Athena Nike is an ancient Ionic Greek temple dedicated to the Greek Gods, Athena and Nike. It is a small yet impressive structure standing 7m high on the southwest corner of the Acropolis. The nuanced architecture of the temple with white marble and scenic views from all points often gives it the name ‘pearl of the Acropolis’.

The temple or columns of Olympian Zeus is a ruined temple in the centre of Athens which was dedicated to Zeus, King of Olympian gods. The temple is situated close to Syngtama square. Fifteen columns remain standing today, and the sixteenth column lies on the ground.

Temple of Hephaestus is among the very few structures left in Athens, standing as it was originally built. Hephaestus was the god of metal working, craftsmanship and fire. Around 700 CE, the temple was turned into a church dedicated to Saint George. When Athens became Greece's capital in 1834, the publication of the relevant royal edict was made in this temple.