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Archaeological Site at Heraion of Samos: Sanctuary of Hera

Explore the Heraion of Samos, a UNESCO site with ancient ruins of temples dedicated to Hera, offering insights into Greek mythology and architecture.

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Explore the ruins of the Heraion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant sanctuaries in ancient Greece, dedicated to the goddess Hera. Located near Pythagoreio on the island of Samos, the site features remnants of monumental temples, altars, and the Sacred Way, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history and architectural prowess.

A brief summary to Archaeological Site at Heraion of Samos

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration of the ruins.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the hot summer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village of Ireon, the Archaeological Site at Heraion is a pleasant walk of approximately 15-20 minutes. Follow the main road east out of Ireon, and you'll see signs directing you to the site. The path is mostly flat and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Regular buses connect Pythagoreio to Heraion. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes, and a ticket costs around €2-€3. From the bus stop in Ireon, it's a short walk to the archaeological site. Buses operate three times a day, Monday to Friday.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Pythagoreio to the Archaeological Site at Heraion takes approximately 7 minutes and costs between €11-€14. Taxis are readily available in Pythagoreio, especially near the port and main square.

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Discover more about Archaeological Site at Heraion of Samos

The Archaeological Site at Heraion of Samos invites visitors to explore the remains of a once-grand sanctuary dedicated to Hera, the queen of the Olympian gods. Located 6 km southwest of Pythagoreio, the site was a major religious center from the 8th century BC through the Roman era. Today, the Heraion is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby Pythagoreion,testifying to the exceptional architecture and historical importance of Samos during the Archaic period. Excavations have revealed impressive buildings and votive offerings dating from the Protogeometric to the Late Roman periods. Architectural remains indicate the existence of a significant settlement dating back to the Early Bronze Age. The site's centerpiece was the Temple of Hera, one of the largest Greek temples of its time. Although much of the original structure has been lost, the single remaining standing column, known as the “Hera Column,” offers a sense of its former scale and splendor. Originally, the temple had 155 columns, each about 20 meters high. Visitors can walk along the Sacred Way, a road that once connected the sanctuary to the ancient city of Samos. This road was used for religious processions and flanked by thousands of marble statues. Other notable features include the remains of altars, smaller temples, and a 5th-century Christian basilica. The site also includes the foundations of stoas (long colonnaded buildings) and unsettling statues of a family, the Geneleos Group. The Heraion lies in the fertile plain formed by the Imbrasos River. According to myth, Hera was born on the banks of this river beneath a willow tree, which was considered sacred to the goddess.

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