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Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus: Ancient Echoes on the Acropolis of Rhodes

Discover the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus in Rhodes: a journey through ancient Greek history, architecture, and spirituality on the Acropolis.

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Explore the evocative ruins of the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, a Doric temple on the northern edge of the Acropolis of Rhodes. Built in the 4th century BC, this sacred site once housed important treaties and offered panoramic views, providing a glimpse into the religious and political life of ancient Rhodes.

A brief summary to Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus

  • Rhodes, 851 00, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures while exploring the Acropolis.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the temple and Acropolis can be uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the Acropolis and the architectural details of the temple ruins.
  • Take time to read the informational plaques on-site to gain a deeper understanding of the temple's history and significance.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Old Town of Rhodes to further immerse yourself in the island's rich history and culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Rhodes Town, the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head towards the Acropolis, following signs for the archaeological site. The path leads through the city streets and gradually uphill to Monte Smith, where the Acropolis is located. There are no specific costs involved in walking, making it a free and pleasant way to reach the temple.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from various points in Rhodes to the city center. Look for buses heading to 'Rhodes Acropolis' or 'Ancient City of Rhodes'. Once you arrive at the city center, it's a short walk towards the Acropolis. Follow the signs indicating the archaeological site. Bus tickets typically cost around €1.20 - €3. Ensure to check the bus schedule for return trips.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rhodes. A taxi from the center of Rhodes Town to the Acropolis will be a short ride. Agree on the fare before getting in, or ensure the meter is running. A 5km ride costs around €7. There are additional charges for calling a taxi.

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Discover more about Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus

The Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus, situated on the northern edge of the Acropolis of Rhodes, offers a captivating journey into the island's Hellenistic past. Constructed around the 4th century BC, this Doric peripteral temple was dedicated to both Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, and Zeus, the king of the gods. More than just a place of worship, the temple served as a repository for important treaties and documents, highlighting its significance in the political life of ancient Rhodes. The temple's design, featuring columns on all sides, would have been an impressive sight. Today, the remaining column drums, some reaching 1.20 meters in diameter, hint at its original grandeur. Excavations by the Italian Archaeological School in the early 20th century and later by the Greek Archaeological Service have unveiled the temple's history. Inscriptions found on-site confirm the worship of both Athena and Zeus, with numerous Athena statues discovered. Interestingly, a Christian church was built over the temple in the 5th and 6th centuries AD, followed by a monastery in medieval times, reflecting the site's continued importance through different eras. Located within the Acropolis of Rhodes, the temple is easily accessible and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Acropolis itself was not fortified but instead comprised sanctuaries, temples, and public buildings built on stepped terraces. The combination of natural beauty and architectural design created a unique Hellenistic atmosphere.

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