Trips and tips: The jems of Athens

In the centre of Athens, very close to the Greek Parliament, there stands the remainders of a temple of Olympian Zeus and the Hadrian Arch. If you come to Athens they are worth your visit.

The temple wad being built by various kings for more than 600 years. It began in 515 BC and ended by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 AD. It contained two rows of 20 columns on each long side and three rows of 8 columns on each end. Now there exist only 16 columns. There were two statues inside to worship: one of Olympian Zeus and one of Emperor Hadrian.

It was the largest and most important temple of its time but after the 3rd century AD, its glory decayed and its building materials were used elsewhere.

The Arch was built in 132 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian for his many cotributions to the city.

In my opinion the triangle of the Temple, the Arch and the Acropolis is of significant beauty!

Enjoy!