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Temple of Athena Polias: Ancient Sanctuary on Filerimos Hill

Explore the ruins of the Temple of Athena Polias on Filerimos Hill in Rhodes, offering a glimpse into ancient Ialysos and stunning island views.

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The Temple of Athena Polias, located on Filerimos Hill in Ialysos, Rhodes, is an ancient Doric temple dating back to the 3rd-2nd centuries BC. Built upon the foundations of an older Classical temple, it offers a glimpse into the island's rich history and provides stunning panoramic views.

A brief summary to Temple of Athena Polias

  • Ialysos, 851 01, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around Filerimos Hill can be uneven.
  • Bring water, especially during hot summer months, as there is limited shade on the hill.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions on Filerimos Hill, such as the medieval monastery and the Cross of Filerimos.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Rhodes Town, take the local bus to Ialysos. Buses depart regularly from the Rhodes Town bus station. Once in Ialysos, follow the signs to Filerimos Hill, where the Temple of Athena Polias is located. The bus trip from Rhodes Town to Ialysos typically costs €2-3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Rhodes Town and Ialysos. A taxi ride from Rhodes Town to Filerimos Hill in Ialysos will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the taxi fare.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Ialysos, you can walk to Filerimos Hill. From the center of Ialysos, follow the main road towards the hill. The walk is approximately 5 kilometers and will take about an hour. Note that the walk involves an uphill climb.

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Discover more about Temple of Athena Polias

The Temple of Athena Polias is situated on the historically significant Filerimos Hill, which was the acropolis of ancient Ialysos, one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes. The hill has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with Minoan and Mycenaean settlements dating back to the 3rd millennium BCE. The temple itself was constructed in the Doric style during the Hellenistic period (3rd-2nd centuries BC), though evidence suggests it stands on the site of an earlier Classical temple from the 5th century BC. Dedicated to Athena Polias, the protector of the city, the temple was a central place of worship for the inhabitants of Ialysos. In addition to Athena, there are references to the worship of Zeus Polias at this location. Today, visitors can explore the foundations and remnants of the temple, including column fragments and the base of the cult statue. The site also features a Doric fountain-house dating back to the 4th century BC, showcasing the advanced engineering of the time. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

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