Temple of Hera travel guide

The Temple of Hera, also known as Heraion, is one of the most significant ancient structures in Olympia. Built around 590 BC, it is one of the oldest monumental temples in Greece. Originally, the temple was dedicated to both Zeus and Hera, but over time, it became exclusively associated with Hera, the queen of the gods in Greek mythology.

The temple's architecture represents the early Doric style, featuring massive columns and a rectangular layout. It was constructed using local limestone and mudbrick, later covered with stucco to give it a more polished appearance.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Temple of Hera is its connection to the ancient Olympic Games. The famous statue of Hermes by Praxiteles was discovered here, and the temple served as the venue for the Heraia, an ancient festival dedicated to Hera.

Today, the Temple of Hera stands as a captivating ruin, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture and religious practices. Its historical significance and architectural prowess make it a must-visit site for anyone exploring the ancient wonders of Olympia.

One of the most distinctive features of the Temple of Hera is its early Doric architectural style, which is among the oldest surviving examples of this type of construction in Greece. The temple originally featured a wooden superstructure that was gradually replaced with stone, showcasing a transitional phase in ancient Greek architecture. Another unique aspect is the presence of the elaborate terracotta roof tiles, which were a significant innovation at the time.

The Temple of Hera also houses the famous Table of Offering, where the celebrated Heraean Games, the oldest recorded women's athletic competition, were held in honor of the goddess Hera. Additionally, the temple is renowned for its continuous use over centuries, evidenced by alterations and repairs that span various historical periods, reflecting the evolving architectural and cultural practices.

Moreover, the temple's orientation and alignment with other significant structures in the Sanctuary of Olympia highlight its central role in the religious and social activities of ancient Greece. The presence of the original altar of Hera, where the Olympic flame is still lit today for the modern Olympic Games, adds a layer of historical continuity and global significance to this ancient site.

The Temple of Hera, one of Olympia's most ancient structures, was originally built in wood around the 7th century BCE before being reconstructed in stone. Remarkably, it served as the venue for the first Olympic Games' 'Heraean' women's foot races. Each year, a unique tradition takes place here: the lighting of the Olympic flame using a parabolic mirror to harness the sun's rays, a practice that dates back to ancient rituals. Notably, the temple houses the oldest known example of a roofed Greek temple, featuring a unique combination of Doric and Ionic elements. Additionally, some of its columns are intentionally misaligned to create an optical illusion of perfect symmetry.

Discover Temple of Hera, a prime feature of Ancient Olympia. Temple of Hera is situated at Unnamed Road, Archea Olimpia 270 65, Greece, just a short distance from Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity and Archaeological Museum of Olympia, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Temple of Hera, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Ancient Olympia, a town in Greece rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town from the comprehensive Ancient Olympia travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Temple of Hera in Olympia, Greece, is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for walking around the ancient ruins without the oppressive heat of summer. Additionally, these months feature fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season in July and August, allowing for a more serene and immersive experience.

Springtime also brings a burst of wildflowers and lush greenery to the Olympia landscape, enhancing the beauty of the site. Meanwhile, autumn offers equally comfortable weather and often spectacular sunsets that cast a golden glow over the historic ruins.

Travelers should also consider visiting during the annual Olympia Festival, held in late summer, which includes various cultural events and reenactments that bring the ancient world to life. By planning your trip during these favorable times, you can enjoy the Temple of Hera with optimal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and potentially enriching cultural experiences.

Temple of Hera is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Ancient Olympia, Greece. If you're flying in, Zakynthos International Airport is approximately 41.5 miles (66.8 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Temple of Hera by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Ancient Olympia, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Temple of Hera, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Unnamed Road, Archea Olimpia 270 65, Greece.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Temple of Hera!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Ancient Olympia, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Temple of Hera.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic archeological site in Greece.

Choosing the right accommodation near Temple of Hera from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Ancient Olympia can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Temple of Hera, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Temple of Hera, Ancient Olympia boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Ancient Olympia offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Ancient Olympia is Archaeological Site of Olympia, located at Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Archaeological Museum of Olympia is worth seeing when you're in Ancient Olympia. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity completes any trip to Ancient Olympia. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Πραξιτέλη Κονδύλη 4, Archea Olimpia 270 65, Greece, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Ancient Olympia below to discover even more incredible places to explore.