Temple of Zeus

A highlight of your visit to the archaeological site of Olympia will be the exploration of the remains of the imposing Temple of Zeus. The temple is a gigantic hexastyle structure, the largest ancient temple in the Peloponnese, considered to be the perfect example of Doric art and architecture. It was probably constructed circa 470 BC, when the ancient Olympic Games were at their peak, in honor of the father of gods and men, Zeus.

The most impressive part of the temple was the magnificent chryselephantine Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The about 12 meters tall statue of ivory plates and gold panels, was created by a master of his art, the famous sculptor Pheidias, in his on-site workshop. Unfortunately, the statue was lost or destroyed during the 5th century AD, under unclear circumstances.