This location is #21 on our Best Travel Destinations In Greece & Greek Islands Map!
Nestled in the rugged mountains of Bassae in the Peloponnese, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius is a hidden gem that will leave any first-time tourist in awe. This ancient Greek temple, dedicated to Apollo, the god of healing and prophecy, sits at an elevation of 1,130 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Built around 420–400 BC, its remote location has preserved its mystique, making it feel like a secret discovery far from the crowds of Athens. As you approach, the temple’s weathered limestone columns stand in striking contrast to the wild, windswept landscape, evoking a sense of timeless wonder. For a first-time visitor, the journey here—about a 3-hour drive from Athens or 1.5 hours from Kalamata—feels like a pilgrimage to a sacred site frozen in history.
The temple itself is a marvel of ancient architecture, blending Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian elements in a way that’s rare for its time. As you walk around its 38 Doric columns, you’ll notice the intricate details, like the faint traces of the inner frieze, which once depicted epic battles between Greeks and Amazons. The interior, though less preserved, hints at its former grandeur with a single Corinthian column—considered one of the earliest of its kind. For a first-time tourist, exploring the temple is like stepping into a history lesson: the structure was built to thank Apollo for sparing the region from plague, and its alignment with the stars reflects the Greeks’ deep connection to astronomy. Bring sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain, and don’t miss the chance to wander nearby paths for panoramic views, especially at sunset when the temple glows golden against the mountains.Visiting the Temple of Apollo Epicurius requires some planning, as its remote location means limited facilities nearby. The temple is often covered by a protective tent to shield it from the elements, but this doesn’t detract from its beauty—instead, it adds a sense of preservation and care. For a first-time tourist, the best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding hills are lush or dusted with wildflowers. There’s a small visitor center with basic information, but bringing a guidebook or downloading an audio tour can enrich your experience. Take time to absorb the quiet solitude of the site; unlike busier ruins, Bassae offers a serene escape where you can almost hear the whispers of ancient worshippers carried on the mountain breeze.History of the Temple of Apollo Epicurius.
The Temple of Apollo Epicurius was constructed in the 5th century BC, likely designed by Ictinus, the architect behind the Parthenon in Athens. Built by the people of nearby Phigaleia, it was a votive offering to Apollo Epicurius (“the helper”) for protecting them from a devastating plague. Its isolated location in the Arcadian mountains was deliberate, chosen to honor the god in a place of natural splendor and spiritual significance. The temple’s construction during the height of the Classical Greek period reflects the era’s architectural innovation and devotion to the gods. Over centuries, it fell into obscurity, buried by time until its rediscovery in the 18th century by European travelers, who marveled at its well-preserved state despite its exposure to harsh mountain weather.
Interesting Facts
One of the temple’s most fascinating features is its unique architectural blend: it combines the sturdy Doric exterior with an Ionic inner frieze and a pioneering Corinthian column, showcasing a bold experiment in Greek design. Its north-south orientation, unlike the typical east-west alignment of most Greek temples, is thought to align with celestial events, hinting at its use for astronomical observations. The temple’s frieze, now housed in the British Museum, depicts vivid mythological battles, offering a glimpse into ancient storytelling. Remarkably, its high-altitude location has helped preserve it by limiting human interference, making it one of the best-preserved temples in Greece. Local legend also claims the surrounding mountains were home to sacred groves where Apollo’s worshippers sought healing and divine guidance.
