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Temple of Apollo Epicurius
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monument
The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae is located in the remote mountains of Arcadia at an altitude of 1,131 meters. Built between 450 and 400 BC, it is attributed to Iktinos, one of the brilliant architects of the Parthenon in Athens. The temple is unique for several reasons: it features an unusual north-south orientation and is the first known structure to combine all three classical orders, Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. It famously housed the oldest known Corinthian capital in architectural history. The citizens of Phigalia dedicated the temple to Apollo Epicurius, meaning 'the Helper,' in gratitude for protecting them from a devastating plague. In 1986, it became the first site in Greece to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Today, a massive protective canopy covers the grey limestone structure to shield it from harsh weather.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Temple of Artemis Orthasia · Bassae
- Nearby: Agaliani (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 106 | 80 | 60 | 32 | 23 | 23 | 15 | 11 | 49 | 70 | 101 | 114 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The temple is fully visible from the outside, as it stands under a massive protective roof. The interior of the temple is not accessible to visitors.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, in winter usually until 5:00 PM. Access may be restricted on holidays.
Photography
Photography for personal use is allowed throughout the site. The use of flash is not permitted inside the protective structure.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for visiting the temple and the surrounding viewing platform. If you want to explore the hiking trails in the area, plan for 2 hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the ancient city of Megalopolis, which is about 30 kilometers away. The impressive Lousios Gorge is also a great addition.
Getting there
The temple is remotely located in the mountains of Arcadia and is only accessible by car. Access is via a winding road; there is a parking lot nearby.
Insider tip
Bring a jacket, as it can be cool and windy on the mountain even in summer. Combine the trip with a picnic in the pristine nature.
Geography
Facts
- The temple was the first Greek site added to the UNESCO list in 1986.
- It is situated at an elevation of 1,131 meters in the Arcadian mountains.
- Architect Iktinos designed the temple during the 5th century BC.
- The oldest Corinthian capital in history was discovered within its walls.
- The temple features a rare and deliberate north-south orientation.
- A large protective tent currently shields the structure from erosion.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Temple of Apollo Epicurius (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is there a huge tent over the temple?
The tent protects the sensitive limestone from extreme weather conditions and frost at the high altitude.
Who was the architect of the Temple of Apollo at Bassae?
It is believed that Iktinos, one of the architects of the Parthenon in Athens, designed it.
What is special about the architecture of this temple?
It is the first temple to combine all three classical orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.
How do you reach the temple?
The approach is via winding mountain roads; the temple stands isolated at an altitude of 1,130 meters.
Is it possible to enter the temple?
You can walk around the temple and look inside, but direct access between the columns is often restricted.
Temple of Apollo Epicurius: where is it located?
Temple of Apollo Epicurius is located in Greece.
Temple of Apollo Epicurius: what is there to see?
Highlights include Temple of Artemis Orthasia, Bassae.
Temple of Apollo Epicurius: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Temple of Apollo Epicurius: why is it worth visiting?
The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae is located in the remote mountains of Arcadia at an altitude of 1,131 meters.
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