Temples & religious sites
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Located east of the Acropolis, this site is the remains of a temple dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology. Construction began in the 6th century BC and was finished in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Hadrian. Visitors go here to see the scale of the remaining colossal columns, which represent one of the largest temples of the ancient Roman Empire.
Getting There
The site is located within the central archaeological zone of Athens. From the city centre (Syntagma Square), it is a short walk of approximately 10 to 15 minutes heading southeast.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes to walk through the grounds and view the remaining columns and architectural fragments.
When to Visit
The site is an open-air area with limited shade. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat, particularly during the summer months. Like most major sites in Athens, it can get crowded during the peak tourist season.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the temple can be combined with several other nearby points of interest:
- Arch of Hadrian: 0.1km
- Choragic Monument of Lysicrates: 0.3km
- Plaka: 0.4km
- Acropolis Museum: 0.4km
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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