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.

Ancient Olympia is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Ancient Olympia offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Ancient Olympia and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Archaeological Site of Olympia, Archaeological Museum of Olympia, Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity, Parking Olimpia, and Άlsos Olubiakis Ekecheirias.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Ancient Olympia has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Ancient Olympia, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Greece!

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 Ancient Olympia. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Temple of Hera, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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!

Conveniently explore Temple of Hera and plenty more captivating attractions in Ancient Olympia by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Temple of Hera and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Ancient Olympia has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Temple of Hera below.

Aside from Temple of Hera, Ancient Olympia is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Ancient Olympia, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Archaeological Site of Olympia, Archaeological Museum of Olympia, and Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity.

Archaeological Site of Olympia is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Ancient Olympia, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Archaeological Site of Olympia is Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece.

Another appreciated attraction in Ancient Olympia is Archaeological Museum of Olympia. Like Archaeological Site of Olympia, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 6,400 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece.

Museum of the History of the Olympic Games of antiquity is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Ancient Olympia. This museum and top attraction in Ancient Olympia has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Πραξιτέλη Κονδύλη 4, Archea Olimpia 270 65, Greece.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Ancient Olympia below.