Temple of Apollo Travel Guide

The Temple of Apollo, or Kolona, stands as a testament to Aegina's historical significance. Situated on a small hill overlooking the port, the temple's site is one of the first sights visitors see upon arrival. The temple dates back to the 6th century BC, even earlier than the Parthenon in Athens, marking a period when Aegina was a prominent trading center and rival to Athens.Constructed in the Doric architectural style, it is believed to have originally had 11 columns on the sides and 6 on the ends. Today, only one column remains standing, lending the site its nickname, Kolona, which means column in Greek. The site is not only home to the Temple of Apollo but also encompasses a prehistoric settlement, with remains of houses dating back to the Late Neolithic Period.Over the centuries, the temple site has undergone many changes. During the 7th century, it served as the Acropolis of the island. In 381 AD, an imperial decree led to its demolition, and its materials were used to construct fortifications and piers. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, wander through wildflowers, and enjoy views of the harbor and the Saronic Gulf. The adjacent Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from the site, including a notable statue of a Sphinx.