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Temple of Poseidon: Ancient Majesty at Cape Sounion

Discover the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion: where ancient history meets breathtaking Aegean Sea views. A must-see landmark near Athens.

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Perched on the cliffs of Cape Sounion, the Temple of Poseidon is a striking testament to ancient Greek architecture and mythology. Dedicated to the god of the sea, this 5th-century BCE temple offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and stands as a reminder of Athens' maritime power.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the shoulder season (March-May or September-October) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Arrive in the late afternoon to witness the breathtaking sunset over the Aegean Sea.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the path to the temple is steep and uneven.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as there is limited shade on the clifftop.
  • Check the official website for free admission days and updated opening hours.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Temple of Poseidon from Athens via public transport, take the KTEL bus from the Mavromateon Terminal (also known as Pedion Areos Park). The bus trip takes approximately 2 hours and costs around €7-8 for a one-way ticket. The bus will drop you off near the entrance of the archaeological site. From there, it's a steep, 30-45 minute walk up a pathway to the temple.

  • Taxi

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Athens to the Temple of Poseidon offers a direct but more expensive option. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €60-€80 for a one-way trip. Some taxis may offer fixed rates for the trip, so inquire in advance. There is a parking area near the visitor center at the base of the cliff.

  • Driving

    Driving to the Temple of Poseidon from Athens takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can take the coastal route (Posidonos and Athinion Souniou road) for scenic views or the highway route (A6/E94 and EO91). Note that the highway route involves tolls. Parking is available near the entrance to the archaeological site. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Temple of Poseidon

The Temple of Poseidon, an iconic landmark on Cape Sounion, stands as a majestic tribute to the sea god and a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Greece. Constructed between 444 and 440 BCE during the Golden Age of Athens, the temple's strategic location made it a vital site for maritime worship and a prominent navigational marker for sailors. Built atop the ruins of an older, archaic temple, the current structure is crafted from white marble sourced from the nearby Agrileza mines. Originally, it featured 34 Doric columns, of which only 15 remain standing today, their elegant silhouettes gracing the Aegean skyline. These columns, though weathered by time, still bear the marks of history, including graffiti etched by travelers, most famously Lord Byron. In ancient times, Cape Sounion held immense strategic importance, controlling sea lanes to Piraeus and boasting rich silver mines that fueled Athens' wealth. The temple itself played a central role in Greek mythology, linked to the legend of King Aegeus, who is said to have plunged into the sea from these cliffs, giving the Aegean Sea its name. The temple was not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of Athenian naval power, with captured Persian warships displayed here as trophies to Poseidon. Today, the Temple of Poseidon continues to captivate visitors with its stunning views, rich history, and enduring connection to Greek mythology. The site offers a glimpse into the world of ancient mariners and the enduring legacy of Greek civilization.

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