Temple of Hera near Ireon on Samos

Samos most famous sight is the Temple of Hera, or Heraion of Samos as it is also called. The temple is located west of Pythagorion and Potokaki, not far from the tourist resort of Ireon.

Part of the excavation area at the Temple of Hera.

According to Greek mythology, Hera was married to Zeus, who was also her brother. The temple was built as a shrine to Hera in the 8th century BC. It was replaced in the 5th century BC. of an even larger temple. Today, not much remains of the once magnificent temple.

Read about Dikteon Cave in Crete where Zeus was born »

Heras temple.

During its heyday, the temple was supported by more than 100 columns, today only one remains. To a layman there is not much to see, a couple of statues, a few piles of "blocks" and that preserved column that stands and looks lonely.

During its heyday, the temple was supported by more than 100 columns, today only one remains.

I don't think it's worth the entry, the column can be seen from the outside. Others think differently, including UNESCO, which includes the Temple of Hera on its World Heritage list.

The lone column in the Temple of Hera.

Do not miss Ireon, which you can read about here »

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