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Temple of Hera: A Glimpse into Ancient Samos

Explore the ruins of the Temple of Hera on Samos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient Greek grandeur and religious significance.

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The Temple of Hera, or Heraion, on the island of Samos, is an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, wife of Zeus. Once a grand temple rivaling the Parthenon, today, visitors can explore the evocative ruins, including a solitary standing column, remnants of a once-massive structure, and imagine the site's rich history and religious significance dating back to the 8th century BC.

A brief summary to Temple of Hera

  • Pithagorio, GR

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring (April-June) for warm weather and fewer tourists.
  • Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring water, as there is little shade at the site.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Pythagorion, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Check the official schedule before visiting, as the site is closed on Tuesdays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village of Ireon, the Temple of Hera is a relatively short walk. Follow the main road towards the archaeological site; it is well-signposted. The walk is mostly flat and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no entrance fees to access the general area, but entry to the archaeological site itself costs €6.

  • Public Transport

    Regular buses connect Pythagorion to Ireon. From Ireon, it's a short walk to the Temple of Hera. Bus tickets cost around €2-3. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date timings, as services may be less frequent on weekends.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Pythagorion. A taxi ride to the Temple of Hera takes approximately 10 minutes. Expect to pay around €11-14 for the trip. Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Temple of Hera

Located near the modern village of Ireon, about 6 km southwest of Pythagorion, the Temple of Hera (Heraion) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ancient landmarks in Greece. Dedicated to Hera, the queen of the Olympian gods, the temple was a major religious center, attracting pilgrims from across the Greek world. Originally constructed around the 8th century BC, the Heraion underwent several reconstructions, reaching its peak during the reign of Polycrates in the 6th century BC. At that time, it was considered the largest Greek temple, boasting 155 columns, each approximately 20 meters high. Herodotus described it as the "greatest and most impressive temple in Greece". Today, visitors can wander through the ruins and envision the temple's former glory. The single remaining standing column, known as the “Hera Column,” offers a striking visual. Excavations have revealed significant remains, including massive columns, intricate sculptures, and architectural details, providing insights into the religious and cultural life of ancient Samos. The "Sacred Way," a paved road that once connected the temple to the ancient city of Samos (now Pythagorion), was used for religious processions. Remnants of this path can still be seen. The site also features the remains of a large altar used for sacrifices and offerings to Hera. The temple's location, close to the sea and the Imbrasos River, was significant in its history, with legends suggesting Hera's birth on the riverbanks. Despite being in ruins, the Temple of Hera remains a powerful testament to the architectural brilliance and religious devotion of the Ancient Greeks.

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