Recently updated on August 13th, 2023 at 02:59 pm
The ancient archaeological sites dotted throughout Greece are filled with stories, history and intrigue, and are the remains of a society that gave us both democracy and philosophy. On a journey from the Greek capital of Athens to the historically rich island of Rhodes, capture a glimpse of what life was like for this ancient civilisation by seeking out the most majestic temples of Greece.
Archaeological Exploration in Athens
The UNESCO World Heritage Acropolis is undoubtedly Athens’ most visited site, with ancient architecture that’s said to date back to the fifth century BC. And, set on the highest point overlooking the city, the site offers views of the surrounding landscape.
The Temple of Parthenon is within this ancient citadel, and having been built to honour to the city’s guardian, the goddess Athena, is of particular reverence. Look up at the soaring pillars and see the decorative stonework that would have once been in full colour.
Over to the north of the Acropolis is the Temple of Erechtheion, constructed between 421 and 406 BC for the goddess Athena and the God of the Sea, Poseidon. The most captivating elements are arguably the six caryatids (carved female figures) that act as the temple’s columns.
The ancient Agora of Athens – situated to the northwest of The Acropolis – was once the city’s meeting place for sports, worship and politics, the setting for the city’s marketplace, and a residential area, all making the remaining ruins fascinating to explore. Among the monuments this site encompasses is the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Hephaestus. Built in honour of the god of metal work, craftsmanship and fire, this ancient site was once home to a number of craftsmen’s workshops.
The Agora’s Temple of Apollo Patroos, meanwhile, is a small yet iconic ruin, which attracts a great deal of interest for its statue of Apollo, who at the time was thought to be the founder of the Ionian race. For more insight into this period of ancient history, drop into the Museum of the Ancient Agora, atmospherically housed in the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which was once the Agora’s shopping arcade.
Set right in the heart of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is a dramatic sight. While this was once the largest temple in Greece, only ruins now remain – having possibly been destroyed by an earthquake – with 15 standing columns that still maintain their imposing presence. Towering over the surrounding cityscape, the structure can be seen from the Acropolis.
Discovering Ruins on the Island of Rhodes
As the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, Rhodes has a wealth of both natural and historical sites to explore. The Acropolis of Rhodes combines both of these with its Classical Greek ruins and views across the island from its vantage point above the city of Rhodes. Alongside the impressive theatre and stadium you’ll find the remains of the Temple of Pythian Apollo and the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus. Wander through ruins of what was once the hub for society in the city, and be transported back to one of the most fascinating eras in European history.
Travel to Athens and Rhodes with Trafalgar by joining an itinerary such as the Ancient Lands or Aegean Odyssey.
Image credits: Cover photo of the Acropolis in Athens © iStock / Mlenny. A view of the Acropolis in Athens © iStock / sborisov. A close-up of Hadrian’s Library © iStock / Pawet Szczepanski. The Temple of Olympian Zeus © iStock / Luke Abrahams. The Acropolis in Rhodes © iStock / Alessandro Pinto.