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Temple of Aphaia: Aegina's Architectural Jewel

Discover the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina: a stunning ancient Greek temple with breathtaking views and rich history.

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The Temple of Aphaia, located on the Greek island of Aegina, is an ancient Doric temple dating back to around 500 BC. Dedicated to the goddess Aphaia, later associated with Athena, it stands on a pine-covered hill offering stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. Its well-preserved state and historical significance make it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Temple of Aphaia

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain around the temple.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Check the bus schedule in advance, as services to the temple are infrequent.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple site and museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Aegina Town, take the local bus towards Agia Marina. The bus stops at the Temple of Aphaia. The journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes. A single fare costs around €2. Check the bus schedule in advance as services are infrequent.

  • Taxi

    From Aegina Town, a taxi to the Temple of Aphaia takes approximately 15 minutes. The cost is around €13-€17. Taxis are readily available at the port in Aegina Town. You can also arrange for the taxi to return and pick you up after your visit.

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Discover more about Temple of Aphaia

Perched atop a 160-meter hill on the island of Aegina, the Temple of Aphaia is a captivating monument to ancient Greek architecture and mythology. Dedicated to the goddess Aphaia, who was later identified with Athena, the temple offers panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf and the surrounding island. The site has been a place of worship since the Late Bronze Age, with evidence of early goddess worship dating back to the 14th century BC. The current temple, constructed around 500 BC, was built over the remains of an earlier temple that was destroyed by fire. The temple is a Doric peripteral structure made of local limestone, with Parian marble used for the pediments. It features 6 columns on the short sides and 12 on the long sides, a departure from the elongated proportions of earlier Archaic temples. The temple was adorned with sculptures depicting scenes from the Trojan War, in which Aeginetan heroes played a prominent role. Many of these sculptures are now housed in the Glyptothek Museum in Munich. The Temple of Aphaia forms a sacred triangle with the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. The temple's strategic location and architectural significance make it a remarkable testament to the rich history and culture of ancient Greece. Visitors can explore the temple ruins, wander through the surrounding pine forest, and visit the small archaeological museum on-site to learn more about the temple's history and significance.

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