Temple of Hephaestus, Athens (must see)

The temple dedicated to Hephaestus, the best-preserved ancient Greek temple, has maintained its integrity in part due to its transformation into a Greek Orthodox church from the 7th to the 19th centuries. Standing on a hill on the north-west side of the Agora, it may not match the grandeur of the Parthenon's remains or the colossal temple of the Olympian Zeus, but it offers a genuine sense of the true proportions of an authentic Greek temple, thanks to its mostly intact structure.

In Greek mythology, Hephaestus was the deity associated with fire, metalworking, blacksmiths, and artisans. Only he possessed the skill to craft the magnificent and indestructible bronze residences where the other Olympian gods dwelled.

Construction of the temple began in 449 BC, and some scholars suggest that it may have taken around three decades to complete, as resources and labor were diverted towards the Parthenon. As documented in the "Description of Greece" by Greek traveler Pausanias in the 2nd century AD, the temple once housed bronze statues of Athena and Hephaestus. The surroundings have been adorned with trees and shrubs, creating a small garden where visitors can find shaded spots and enjoy excellent views of other historical sites.

Tips:
You can explore this site with the Acropolis multi-site ticket, which is highly recommended. Consider obtaining an audio guide for a richer experience. While entry inside the structure is restricted, you can walk around it to admire the decorative friezes adorning its exterior.