The Temple of Zeus, also known as the Olympieion, is an ancient Greek temple in Athens, Greece. It was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology, and was one of the largest temples in ancient Greece.
Construction of the temple began in the 6th century BCE during the rule of the Athenian tyrant Peisistratos. Still, it was not completed until over 600 years later, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE. Several architects designed the temple throughout its construction, and its size and architectural style changed significantly over time.
The temple was built using Pentelic marble and featured 104 Corinthian columns, of which only 15 remain standing today. At its peak, the temple measured 96 meters long and 40 meters wide, making it one of the largest temples in the ancient world. The temple also housed a massive gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Today, the Temple of Zeus is a popular tourist attraction and a significant historical and cultural landmark in Athens. While much of the temple has been destroyed over the centuries, visitors can still see the remaining columns and other architectural features that give a sense of the temple's former grandeur.
Starting from the Arch of Hadrian, the walking tour of Athens takes visitors through some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions. The Arch of Hadrian, a triumphal arch built in the 2nd century AD, stands at the entrance to the ancient city and serves as the gateway to the tour.
From the arch, visitors can walk towards the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which is one of the largest ancient temples in Greece. The temple was completed in the 2nd century AD and was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology. Although much of the temple has been destroyed over the centuries, its impressive columns still stand today, and visitors can appreciate their sheer size and intricate details.
After exploring the temple, visitors can go to the nearby National Garden of Athens. The garden is a lush and peaceful oasis in the city's heart, featuring an array of trees, plants, and flowers from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the garden's paths, relax by the small lake, and visit the Terrapin Pond to see the turtles.
The walking tour then continues towards the Benaki Museum, which is one of the most famous museums in Athens. The museum is located in a beautiful neoclassical building and features a collection of art and artefacts from ancient to modern times. Along the way to the museum, visitors can walk through the upscale neighbourhood of Kolonaki, known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes.
At the Benaki Museum, visitors can explore the extensive collection of artefacts and art, including ancient icons and terracotta figurines, which offer a glimpse into the rich history of Greece and the wider Mediterranean region.
Overall, the walking tour of Athens is a great way to explore the city's ancient landmarks and modern cultural offerings. It offers a mix of history, nature, and art and takes visitors on a journey through the many different facets of Athens.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
