Temple of Apollo, South Aegean Travel Guide

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Naxos's iconic marble gate, the Portara, is a window to ancient Greece with breathtaking sunset views, standing on the islet of Palatia.

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Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo, also known as Portara, is an iconic landmark on the island of Naxos, Greece. It's a massive marble doorway, the only remaining part of an unfinished temple dating back to 530 BC. Situated on the islet of Palatia, near the Naxos harbor, it offers stunning views, especially at sunset.

A brief summary to Temple of Apollo

Naxos, 843 00, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Temple of Apollo.

Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views through the Portara.
Wear comfortable shoes as the path to the Portara involves some walking and a slight climb.
Be cautious walking to Portara at night as the path is unlit and waves may splash onto the causeway.
There is no entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly attraction.

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Explore Temple of Apollo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Temple of Apollo, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Naxos Town (Chora), start at the main harbor. Follow the coastal boardwalk towards the north. The boardwalk narrows into a paved causeway leading to the islet of Palatia, where the Temple of Apollo is located. The walk is short and offers scenic views. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport

The main bus station is near the port in Naxos Town. From the bus station, walk along the harbor towards the north. The boardwalk will turn into a causeway that leads to the Temple of Apollo. Bus tickets range from €1.80 to €6.20, depending on the route. The walk from the bus station to the temple is short and free.
Taxi

Taxis are available at the port of Naxos. A taxi from the port to the edge of Naxos Town closest to the causeway will cost approximately €20. From there, walk along the causeway to the Temple of Apollo.

Discover more about Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo, or Portara, is the emblem of Naxos, a testament to ancient ambition and a photographer's dream. This colossal marble gate stands on the islet of Palatia, now connected to Naxos Town by a paved causeway, a short walk from the main harbor. What remains is the monumental gateway, consisting of a doorframe constructed from massive marble blocks, each weighing approximately 20 tons.Begun in the 6th century BC by tyrant Lygdamis, the temple was intended to be one of the grandest structures in Greece, rivaling the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens. However, construction was abruptly halted when war broke out between Naxos and Samos, and Lygdamis was overthrown in 506 BC. The temple was never completed. Some believe the temple was dedicated to Apollo, god of light, music, and poetry, while others suggest it was for Dionysus, the god of wine.Over the centuries, the temple site saw various uses. In the 6th or 7th century, a Christian church was built on the ruins. Later, during Venetian rule, much of the marble was taken to build the Kastro fortress. Today, the Portara stands as a solitary, yet impressive, reminder of Naxos's rich history. Legend says that Palatia was where Theseus abandoned Ariadne after she helped him slay the Minotaur. Viewing the sunset through the Portara is a must-do experience.