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The temple of the Olympian Zeus is north of the Acropolis
In fact, Hadrian's arch frames the Acropolis or the temple depending on which side you are on.
The temple was designed in the 6th century B.C. as a colossus temple of Zeus the Olympian. However,
construction was never begun. (I believe the Acropolis complex was built around this time.)
Construction was started in the 2nd century B.C. but again never completed. It was not until the time of the Roman Emperor Hadrian (A noted Grekophile who spent more time in Athens than Rome)that the temple was built. (Around 250 A.D.) The temple was finally built in the Classical style using Corinthian columns and a huge statue of Zeus(not Jove?). A Roman Bath complex is near buy with less catchy Doric columns. The Barbarians, who plagued the late Roman empire, destroyed much of the temple complex and used the stone for other projects. One side of the temple is still intact and gives you an idea of how huge it was. I am not sure the site is worth the 5 euro admission. You can see the columns from the street to get an idea of their size. Send comments to: .
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Click on the title or thumbnail to view the larger picture.
All photos by John L. Polos Copyright 9/23/03 |