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Temple of Apollo Thermios: Echoes of Ancient Aetolia

Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo Thermios, the ancient heart of the Aetolian League, and discover its rich history and architectural significance.

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The Temple of Apollo Thermios, located near Thermos, Greece, was the religious and political center of the Aetolian League. Built around 630-610 BC, it is one of the earliest Doric temples. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and imagine the gatherings, elections, and athletic games that once took place here.

A brief summary to Temple of Apollo Thermios.

  • Thermos, 300 08, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Patras, take the KTEL Achaia bus to Thermos. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From the main bus stop in Thermos, the Temple of Apollo Thermios is a 15-minute walk west. Bus tickets cost approximately €24-€35 from Athens to Thermo. From Agrinio to Athens, bus tickets cost approximately €26-€40.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Patras to Thermos. The journey takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares include an initial boarding fee of €1.19, plus €0.68 per kilometer. The minimum fare is €3.39.

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Discover more about Temple of Apollo Thermios.

Nestled in the Aetolian countryside, the Temple of Apollo Thermios stands as a testament to ancient Greece. This sanctuary was the heart of the Aetolian League, a significant political and religious hub from the Mycenaean era until the 2nd century BCE. The temple itself, dedicated to Apollo Thermios, dates back to 630-610 BC and is considered one of the earliest examples of Doric architecture. Named after the hero Thermos, who was accidentally killed by his brother, the site held immense importance for the Aetolians. Here, they gathered for commercial activities, elections, and athletic games. The temple's strategic location in central Aetolia reinforced its role as the primary cult site for Apollo Thermios. While the temple is now in ruins, remnants of its early construction offer insights into the evolution of Greek temples. The site features the foundations of the Temple of Apollo Thermios, as well as Megaron A and several apsidal houses. The temple once featured terracotta metopes adorned with mythological scenes. These metopes are among the earliest examples of this art form in Greece. Over time, the temple underwent several destructions and rebuilds. It was sacked by the Macedonians and later by the Romans, leading to its eventual abandonment after the Roman conquest and the dispersal of the Aetolian League in 167 BCE. Despite its ruined state, the Temple of Apollo Thermios remains a significant archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the religious and political life of ancient Greece.

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