The Temple of Athena Sounion once stood proudly on the cliffs of Cape Sounion, on a low hill adjacent to the Temple of Poseidon. Built in the 5th century BCE, it was part of fortifications constructed by the Athenians to protect their city and its maritime trade route. Notably, Cape Sounion was mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey! Today, only the foundations and a few scattered fragments of the temple remain at the archaeological site of Sounion. Despite this, it continues to serve as a compelling symbol of Greece’s ancient history.
While the Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction, the Temple of Athena Sounion is just a short distance away and adds depth to your visit. It provides insight into ancient Greece’s reverence for both the sea god Poseidon and Athena. And the views from the hill make for stunning photographs!
Cape Sounion was a strategic outpost in Ancient Greece and played a vital role in the lives of those navigating the Aegean Sea. The Temple of Athena Sounion, dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, stood as a beacon of hope and worship for sailors, offering protection as they embarked on long voyages.
To fully appreciate the site, allocate around 30-45 minutes for the Temple of Athena Sounion. This will give you enough time to wander around the ruins, enjoy the scenic views, and learn about the temple’s historical significance. If you're visiting both temples (Athena and Poseidon), allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to cover everything comfortably.
Most guided tours of Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon do not include the nearby Temple of Athena. However, you can confirm this with your tour provider. Both the temples are close to one another, and you can easily visit both during the same tour.
Most Temple of Poseidon tours include audio guides in the price of the ticket. They can be either an audio device or an app-based guide that you can download to your phone, providing a convenient way to learn about the site’s history as you explore at your own pace. Audio guides might also be available at the visitor center for self-guided tours of the site.
While parts of the Temple of Poseidon have been made more accessible, the Temple of Athena Sounion may be more challenging to navigate due to its uneven terrain and ruins. It's a good idea to check with local authorities or your tour operator for detailed accessibility information and assistance options.
Combo: Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets
Combo: Acropolis + Acropolis Museum + Temple of Poseidon Guided Tour with Entry Tickets
From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion Sunset Half-Day Trip
Combo: Temple of Poseidon Sunset Half-Day Trip + 2-Day Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
