What is the Temple of Olympian Zeus?

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympieion, is a large temple in Athens, Greece dedicated to Zeus, king of the gods in ancient Greek mythology. Construction began in the 6th century BCE during the rule of the Athenian tyrants, but the temple was not completed until over 600 years later, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE.

The temple was designed to be one of the largest temples in the ancient world, with 104 columns, some of which were 17 meters high. Today, only 15 of the original columns remain standing, but they give a sense of the temple's former grandeur.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was not just a religious center, but also a symbol of power and prestige for the city of Athens. The temple's sheer size and complexity of construction was meant to impress visitors and rival the other great temples of the ancient world, such as the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Temple of Zeus at Olympia.

The temple's significance waned after the decline of paganism in the late Roman Empire, and the temple fell into disrepair over the centuries. Today, visitors can see the remains of the temple at the archaeological site in Athens, where it remains an impressive testament to the engineering and architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympieion or Columns of the Olympian Zeus, is a former colossal temple at the center of the Greek capital Athens. It was dedicated to "Olympian" Zeus, a name originating from his position as head of the Olympian gods.

The temple was begun in the 6th century BC by the tyrant Peisistratos, but was not completed until the reign of the Roman emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. It was one of the largest temples ever built in the ancient world, and its ruins are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens.

The temple was built on a large artificial platform, and was surrounded by a peristyle of 104 columns. The columns were made of Pentelic marble, and were each 17 meters tall and 2 meters in diameter. The temple was originally decorated with a number of sculptures, including a colossal statue of Zeus that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The temple was badly damaged by earthquakes in the 6th and 7th centuries AD, and was largely abandoned in the Middle Ages. It was partially restored in the 19th century, but remains in a ruinous state.

Despite its ruined state, the Temple of Olympian Zeus is an impressive sight. The towering columns and the vast platform give a sense of the temple's original grandeur. The temple is a reminder of the power and wealth of Athens in the Classical period, and is a popular tourist destination.