Tempio di Ercole: A Window to Ancient Cora

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Explore the ancient Tempio di Ercole in Cori, a remarkably preserved Roman temple with stunning views and rich history.

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Tempio di Ercole

The Tempio di Ercole (Temple of Hercules) in Cori is a remarkably well-preserved Roman temple dating back to the 1st century BC. Perched atop the hill that was once the acropolis of ancient Cora, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into the town's rich history.

A brief summary to Tempio di Ercole

Piazza, Via Tempio D'Ercole, 8, Cori, Province of Latina, 04010, IT

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the temple is located on top of a hill and requires some walking to reach.
Check the opening hours before you go, as they can vary.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Cori and the surrounding landscape.

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Getting There

Walking

From the center of Cori, the Tempio di Ercole is accessible by foot. The walk involves a gradual climb uphill through the charming streets of the town. Follow signs towards the 'Tempio di Ercole'. The path is well-marked but can be steep in some sections. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your starting point in Cori. There are no specific costs involved in walking to the temple.
Public Transport

Cori is accessible by bus from nearby towns and Rome. From the bus stop in Cori (e.g., Cori | Via Monti Lepini or Cori | Torretta Corana), follow the walking directions to the Tempio di Ercole. Bus tickets from Rome to Cori cost approximately €4-€6. From the bus stop to the temple is another 15-20 minutes walking.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Cori, but may not be readily available for immediate hire. It's best to arrange a taxi in advance. A taxi from the outskirts of Cori to the Tempio di Ercole would be a short ride, costing approximately €10-€15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Tempio di Ercole

The Tempio di Ercole, standing proudly in Cori, is a testament to the town's ancient past. Constructed during the dictatorship of Sulla between 89 and 80 BC, the temple dominates the city from its elevated position on the site of the ancient acropolis, 398 meters above sea level. The temple is attributed to two local magistrates, whose names are inscribed on the architrave. Though traditionally called the Temple of Hercules, its true dedication remains uncertain. The temple's excellent preservation is due to its conversion into a church, Chiesa di San Pietro (Saint Peter), though the church was destroyed by Allied bombing in 1944. The adjacent bell tower is a remnant of the old church. The temple itself is a tetrastyle structure, featuring four columns on its facade and four on each side. These Doric columns, standing at seven meters tall, support an architrave decorated with triglyphs and metopes. The temple reflects Italic architectural traditions, drawing inspiration from Etruscan and Republican examples. Over the centuries, the Tempio di Ercole has captivated artists, including Giovanni Battista Piranesi and possibly even Raphael, who measured and sketched the temple.