The Temple Of Olympian Zeus Greece
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is an ancient Greek temple located in Athens, Greece. It is also known as the Olympieion and is one of the largest temples in Greece. The temple was dedicated to Zeus, the king of gods in Greek mythology, and was constructed in the 6th century BC. This temple is one of the major tourist attractions in Athens, and its grandeur is something that visitors should not miss.
The Temple of Olympian Zeus is a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Greeks. It is an emblem of the power and wealth of Athens during the 6th century BC. The temple was built using Pentelic marble, which was quarried from Mount Pentelicus in Attica. This marble was famous for its fine quality and was used in various constructions in Greece, including the Parthenon.
The temple is surrounded by a massive wall, which was built to provide sacred space around the temple. The wall measures around 276 meters in length and includes 104 columns. Each column is around 17 meters high and has a diameter of 1.7 meters. The columns of the temple are Corinthian in style and were decorated with ornate carvings, which gave the temple its grandeur.
The construction of the temple took over six centuries, and it was completed during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, in the 2nd century AD. The Romans added some finishing touches to the temple, such as the colossal statues of Hadrian and Zeus, which were created by the famous Greek sculptor, Phidias. Unfortunately, both statues were destroyed over time, but the ruins of the temple still stand to this day.
The history of the Temple of Olympian Zeus is fascinating. It was built to honor Zeus and was used as a venue for various religious festivals and ceremonies. The temple also had a political significance, as it was used as a location where important decisions were made by the Athenian Empire, such as the election of magistrates.
In the 3rd century AD, the temple was abandoned, and it fell into ruin. Over time, it became a place for pillaging and quarrying, and many of its stones were used in other buildings around Athens. It was only during the 19th century that the temple was rediscovered, and various efforts were made to preserve its ruins. Today, it is a major tourist attraction and a source of pride for the people of Greece.
History of Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world. It has a rich history that dates back to the Neolithic period (4000 BC). The city was named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, who was the patron goddess of Athens. It is also the birthplace of democracy and was the center of Greek civilization during the classical period (5th to 4th centuries BC).
Athens has seen many invasions, wars, and conflicts throughout its history. It was invaded by the Persians in 490 BC and 480 BC, but the Athenians emerged victorious in both battles. The city was also part of the Peloponnesian War, which was fought between Athens and Sparta, two powerful Greek city-states.
Athens experienced a period of decline during the Hellenistic period (4th to 1st centuries BC) but regained its prominence during the Roman period (2nd century BC to 4th century AD). It was during this period that major constructions, such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, were built in Athens.
Travel Tips
If you are planning to visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. The temple is located in the heart of Athens, and it is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the Metro Line 2 to the Acropolis or Syntagma station, which are the closest to the temple. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or walk to the temple if you are staying nearby.
The temple is open to visitors throughout the year, and the opening hours vary depending on the season. From April to October, the temple is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, while from November to March, the temple is open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. The entrance fee for adults is €6, while for children and students, it is €3. If you have a Greek ID card, you can enter the temple for free.
When you visit the temple, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you will have to walk around the ruins. The temple is located on a hill, so you will also have to climb stairs to reach the top. It is best to visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller. You can also hire a licensed guide who can provide you with more information about the temple and its history.
In conclusion, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a must-visit attraction in Athens. Its grandeur and historical significance make it one of the most impressive ancient Greek temples. If you are planning a trip to Greece, make sure to include a visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus in your itinerary. You will not be disappointed! 
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