Temple of Olympian Zeus, Syracuse, Italy

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, the second oldest temple in Syracuse after that of Apollo in Ortigia, rose in the ancient village called Polichne, in a panoramic position, slightly elevated. The Doric building, surrounded by large monolithic columns, appeared really impressive.

Today, what is left of the huge building (which measured 20.50 meters x 60) is part of crepidoma and two columns of the south side.

From it there is a complete view of Porto Grande, Saline, Ortigia and Plemmirio. Not by chance for the Greeks, this temple was a reference for sailors who entering or leaving Syracuse’ port.

References:

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User Reviews

Jonix (2 years ago)
Old but beautiful church.

Dimitris Karathanos (2 years ago)
The temple was dedicated to Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, as testified by Cicero in his Verrine Orations and also by Plato and Athenaeus. Cicero provides extensive details in his speech, claiming that the temple had been respected by the conqueror of Syracuse, Marcus Claudius Marcellus and had only been plundered by the praetor Verres.

John-Anthony Fletcher (3 years ago)
Beautiful building with great architecture, a large inviting entrance to bedazzle even the hardcore critic, unfortunately we only had time to walk past so never looked inside but I’m told it is amazing like my partner Steph x ?

Sebastian H. (3 years ago)
What to say..its history direct infront of you eyes. So beautiful and impressive. There is no good reason not to come by when you are in syrakus.

Aleksandra Kambič (3 years ago)
for me the most beautiful building on the island.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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Temple of Olympian Zeus

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