Heraion of Argos, Argos-Mykines, Greece

The Heraion was a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, situated 8 kilometers from Argos. Built on the southern foothills of the Euboian mountain range, it included ritual sites like the Eleutherian Water for purification and the river Glykeia. Excavations revealed its connection to Mycenaean times and its importance grew from the 8th century BC, becoming a key religious and political center for Argos.

The sanctuary featured a monumental stairway leading to terraces with structures like a Doric stoa and a new temple designed by architect Eupolemos in 420 BC, housing renowned sculptures. Additional structures included an altar and a hypostyle hall, reflecting its significance in Hellenistic and Roman eras. The site remained revered by the Argives until late antiquity, reflecting its enduring importance in Greek religious life.

User Reviews

RJ (2 years ago)
Wonderful place to see the whole argosies valley. Easy to reach via car. Friendly staff. Delightful archaeology

Arothoss (2 years ago)
Felt like we were the only ones there great small site to visit was just us and an old couple in the whole site so we had heaps of fun and some amazing views all around The Valley and the roads there are easy to navigate and drive. Take water with you as there’s no shops or anything just farms

Eileen Herrera (3 years ago)
I find that seeking out the out-of-the-way ancient sites in Greece are worth it. Not only are you able to walk amid the past, these temples and sanctuaries were constructed in some of the most spectacularly beautiful areas, with views that go on for miles, and the sounds of nature. It in this case the sound of the local farmer harvesting his olives, but that was quite nice, too. The Heraion started before the classics age as a temple to another Goddess. I think she likely was associated with the earth, bountiful harvests or some such given the stunning setting. At some point, there was a reconstruction and dedication to Hera, the mother of the gods (at least some), wife to Zeus, and protector of marriage and the like. I would like to think she was the patron of wives with cheating husbands, cuz Zeus was always taking up with other women. Maybe the Heraion gave her a peaceful place to get away from it all.

jeremy kalous (3 years ago)
A relatively smaller site. Free entrance. Open till 15.30. The guy said 800BC. Feels Mycenaean. Large blocks of stone. No baked tiles.

Amanda Carver (3 years ago)
An amazing and extensive site, it is open from 8-16:30 and entry is free for everyone. Quite a steep walk to the site (not a long one) but worth it. Must have been amazing in its day. Sadly no information available. Highly recommended

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