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Europe Greece Samos Do & See Heraion

Overview

Heraion

The guide was updated: 2024-09-14

Although today only some ruins remain, this 6th-century temple dedicated to the goddess Hera (the wife as well as the sister of Zeus) was once four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens. The road leading to the site from Pythagoreio was once lined with impressive statues that led the way to the temple.

Useful Information

Address: Ireon, Samos

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Tunnel of Eupalinos

Tunnel of Eupalinos

Perhaps the greatest testament to the scientific genius of Samos' golden age is the 1,036-metre-long Tunnel of Eupalinos — an aqueduct and service tunnel built in 524 BC. This incredible feat of ancient engineering claimed the lives of many workers, but brought vital drinking water to the inhabitants of Pythagoreio, then a metropolis of 80,000.

Heraion

Heraion

Although today only some ruins remain, this 6th-century temple dedicated to the goddess Hera (the wife as well as the sister of Zeus) was once four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens. The road leading to the site from Pythagoreio was once lined with impressive statues that led the way to the temple.

Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis

Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis

The Castle of Lykourgos Logothetis — named after a renowned leader from the War of Independence — dates back to 1824 and spans an impressive 400 meters. It stands as a remarkable example of defensive architecture, and it was constructed using remnants of various archaeological monuments. During the Revolution against the Turks, the castle served as a headquarters. Visitors can freely explore the castle's remnants and marvel at the stunning vistas of Pythagorei Bay.

Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum

This impressive museum showcases ancient archaeological artefacts dating back as far as the 6th century BC. The highlights include ceramics, bronze sculptures and statues, including an enormous 5-and-a-half metre statue taken from the Heraion near Pythagoreio (the largest of its kind).

Panagia Spiliani Monastery

Panagia Spiliani Monastery

A short distance from the city of Pythagoreion, atop a cliff with wonderful views of the surrounding area and coast, lies the Panagia Spiliani Monastery. As if the views and the quaint monastery weren't enough to lure you up, visitors can descend into a small cave, at the bottom of which there is a tiny underground chapel.

Potami Waterfalls

Potami Waterfalls

Venture through forest paths to the northwest of the island, where you'll discover the beautiful Potami Waterfalls, a popular and picturesque swimming hole hidden among large slick rocks. Nearby there are a few places where you can find refreshments, making the area a great place for a day trip.

Cave of Pythagoras

Cave of Pythagoras

Greek mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras is perhaps the most famous son of Samos, and it is possible to visit his caves on Mount Kerkis. The larger of the two caves was used as a classroom for his students, while the nearby smaller cave was used as his living quarters.

Samos Wine Museum

Samos Wine Museum

Housed in a magnificent 19th-century stone building, which was initially a private winery before being converted into a barrel-making warehouse, the Samos Wine Museum showcases an array of historical artefacts that embody the rich history of Samos wine, including collectable bottles, traditional barrel-making tools, and old winemaking equipment. The museum's design guides visitors through the traditional methods of vineyard cultivation in Samos and offers a comprehensive overview of the social, cultural, and historical significance of Samian wine.

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