Athens Temple of Olympian Zeus Greece Travel Postcard

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also called the Olympieion, is one of Athens’ most impressive ancient ruins. Construction began in the 6th century BCE under the rule of the Athenian tyrants, but it was not completed until the 2nd century CE, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, more than 600 years later. The temple was originally built to honor Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, and was one of the largest temples in the ancient world, designed to awe visitors with its sheer scale. At its peak, the temple featured 104 colossal Corinthian columns, of which 16 still stand today, each about 17 meters (56 feet) tall. The temple is located near the Acropolis and the Panathenaic Stadium, making it a central part of Athens’ historical landscape. Though much of it lies in ruins today, the site still conveys the grandeur of Roman-era Athens and offers a sense of the ambition of its builders. Nearby, you can also see remnants of Hadrian’s Arch, erected in honor of the emperor who completed the temple, linking it to the broader Roman city. Visiting the Olympieion gives insight into both ancient Greek religious practices and the Roman influence on Athens, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.