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Temple of Poseidon: Athenian temple to the God of the Sea
Behold the Temple of Poseidon, perched majestically on Cape Sounion since the 5th century BC. Here, ancient myths, stunning vistas, and sea breeze converge, offering a one-of-a-...
Founded On
440
Founded By
Pericles
Quick information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
4 hours
Timings
9am–6:30pm
VISITORS PER YEAR
200000
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
King Aegeus, father of Theseus is believed to have plunged to his death from the cliff here. After killing the minotaur, Thesaus' ship returned with black sails, which implied he was killed, (which was not the case). A heartbroken King couldn’t take it and jumped from the cliff to his death. The Athenians named the Aegean Sea after this mighty King and loving father.
The Temple was built to honor Poseidon, the god of the sea. In fact, inside the temple stood a 20-foot bronze statue of Poseidon, surviving in parts and preserved in the Archeological Museum of Athens. Being a seafaring nation, Athens had incredible faith in Poseidon and built the temple right near the sea and appeased him with offerings to keep them safe while at sea.
In 1884, German archeologist Wilhelm Dorpfeld discovered that the current temple stood on top of an archaic temple of similar dimensions. It is believed that this archaic temple was razed to the ground by Persians in 480 BC while still under construction. In 479 BC, when the Greeks defeated the Persians, they placed the captured Persian warships at Sounion, as a trophy for Poseidon.
The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
Religious significance
The 5th century BCE Temple of Poseidon is the crown jewel of Cape Sounion. Ancient Greeks worshipped the sea god Poseidon for safety and fortune on long sea voyages. They believed storms were a sign of his wrath. So, before heading out to sea, they offered sacrifices and gifts at this temple, and prayed for his favor and protection.
Strategic importance
The fortifications at Cape Sounion were an integral part of ancient Athens’ strategic coastal defences. Positioned on the headland, the Temple of Poseidon commanded unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea around the Attican peninsula and served as a lookout point to track ships. Its tall white marble columns also marked the entrance to Athens’ harbor and served as a navigational landmark for sailors returning home.
Highlights
Although much of the Temple of Poseidon is in ruins today, some of its ancient structure and 15 of the original 34 Doric columns remain. Despite being weathered over the centuries, it is as imposing today as it was 2,500 years ago. It makes for an unforgettable sight at sunset, with the marble columns lit up by the warm orange, pink, and purple hues of the evening sky.
What to see at the archaeological site of Sounion?
Temple of Athena Sounias
Built in the 6th century BCE, this was a smaller temple honoring Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare. It was constructed on a low hill just a short distance from the Temple of Poseidon. It might seem unusual to have temples dedicated to two powerful gods in such close proximity. However, religion in ancient Greece was polytheistic, and people worshipped multiple gods based on their needs and preferences.
Temple of Athena Sounion
Sounio Beach
One of the best things about Cape Sounion is that you can combine history, culture, and beaches in one trip. Sounio Beach, located just down the hill from the Temple of Poseidon, is one of the Athens Riviera’s best spots for sun, sand, and swimming. Relax by the shore, go snorkeling in the clear waters, and grab a delicious seafood meal at one of the beachside tavernas. And you’ll be able to catch some of the best views of the temple perched above.
Ancient settlements of Cape Sounion
Humans have settled in Cape Sounion for centuries, dating all the way back to the Bronze Age. Artefacts from the site go as far back as the 7th century BCE. In the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, the ancient Greeks built fortifications to protect the city-state of Athens and its maritime trade. Today, you can still see some of the remnants of the walls, temples, and ancient structures that stood here thousands of years ago.
Temple of Poseidon architecture
- Agrileza marble: The Temple of Poseidon was built of white marble quarried from the Agrileza mines near Cape Sounion. The same marble was also used in the construction of the nearby Temple of Athena, which was later demolished.
- Doric columns: Like most temples constructed during the Classical period of ancient Greece, Poseidon’s Temple also featured Doric columns. These columns had a sturdy build, with a fluted shaft, and were slimmer than the typical Doric pillars. Only 15 of original 34 columns are still standing today.
- Peripteral design: The temple displays a peripteral design, meaning it features single columns on all 4 corners. It also has rows of pillars along the four sides, called a colonnade. This design, combined with the slim and tall columns, let in more light into the structure, making the interiors look airier and more spacious.
- Stylobate: Like most important buildings in ancient Greece, you’ll notice that the temple is constructed on a raised platform, called the stylobate. This distinction was made to separate its base from other structures in the area.
Poseidon’s Temple: Featured in mythology and popular culture
If you are a millennial or younger, chances are you’ll have heard of Poseidon and his temple from the Percy Jackson books. Here’s where else this landmark has featured over the centuries:
- Lord Byron’s ‘Isle of Greece’: The 19th century English poet Lord Byron raved about the stunning beauty of Cape Sounion in one of his poems. He described the temple ruins, how it opens into the Aegean Sea, and how the light of the setting sun casts a beautiful glow on the surface of the sea. It is also rumored that when he visited Cape Sounion, he etched his initials on one of the temple’s columns.
- Homer’s Odyssey: In Greek mythology, the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion are also remembered as the site where Aegeus, the king of Athens, jumped to his death after mistakenly believing his son, Theseus, had died. Theseus returned after killing the Minotaur, but forgot to change the sails on his ship from black to white to signal his victory. Mistaking the black sails as a sign that his son had passed away, Aegeus chose to end his life.
- Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey: In this popular video game, the Temple of Poseidon is a notable location that aids players in fulfilling their quests. Players can delve into ancient Greek stories and immerse themselves in this game’s almost realistic simulation of Cape Sounion.
Frequently asked questions about the Temple of Poseidon
Can I enter the Temple of Poseidon for free?
You need to book Temple of Poseidon tickets to enter the site of the ruins at Cape Sounion. It’s best to book your tickets online in advance.
Is the Temple of Poseidon worth visiting?
The Temple of Poseidon is a must-visit for its historic ruins and scenic views of the Aegean Sea. The remains of the original structure and the Doric columns still standing are as imposing today as they were centuries ago. On the way to Cape Sounion, you can also spot famous historical sites like the Theater of Thorikos along the Athinion Souniou Road, and enjoy the beaches along the Athens Riviera.
Are guided tours of the temple available?
Yes, you can book guided tours of the Temple of Poseidon. An in-depth tour with an expert guide is the best way to understand the historical significance of the temple. We recommend going on a day trip to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon from Athens. Apart from a comprehensive tour, you’ll also enjoy comfortable, round-trip transfers to and from the capital.
What are the Temple of Poseidon’s opening hours?
The Temple of Poseidon is open from 9:30am to sunset on most days throughout the year. The site may remain open until 6:30pm or 7pm during the summer months, as the days are longer. The temple is closed on January 1, March 25, Easter Sunday, May 7, and December 25 and 26. On Good Friday, the site is open from 12pm to 5pm and on Holy Saturday, it remains open from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
How long should I spend at the Temple of Poseidon?
It’ll take you about 1-2 hours to explore the Temple of Poseidon and the archaeological site of Cape Sounion. If you’re visiting at sunset, you might want to linger longer to take in the magnificent views.
Can I bring children to the Cape Sounion archaeological site?
Yes, you can plan a visit to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion with your children. The pathway from the main entrance to the temple ruins is steep and uneven. It may be dangerous to let your toddlers walk that stretch. Carry them on a sling, as strollers will not roll smoothly on that terrain.
Is the Temple of Poseidon wheelchair accessible?
There are ramps, armrests, and rest stops along the pathway for elderly folks and visitors with mobility issues. If you use walking aids, you can make your way up the hill with a few stops, especially if you have a friend or family member to accompany you. However, it may be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate the path. There is a viewing platform that can be accessed, which provides beautiful views of the temple.
Are there any other attractions nearby that I can also explore?
Apart from the Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion is also home to the Temple of Athena Sounion, which was dedicated to the goddess Athena. You can also spend some time at Sounio beach or visit the Archaeological Museum of Lavrion in the nearby town of Lavrion.
Are there any discounts or combined tickets available with other attractions?
Yes, you can buy combo tickets and pair your Temple of Poseidon tour with a visit to the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, or a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour of Athens. You’ll save on both time and money, and get access to multiple landmarks under the same ticket.
