Temple of Poseidon (Athens)

For a little respite away from the noise and humidity of downtown Athens, there is no better place to be than a day at Cape Sounion. This rocky headland features the famous Temple of Poseidon, one of southern Greece’s most spectacular ancient sites and enhanced by its majestic coastal setting. Dedicated to the God of the Sea, it towers above the azure Aegean Sea and surrounded by crashing waves on three sides. It is an idyllic place to while away some time on weekend breaks in Athens, and easily accessible in around one hour by local bus or an organised excursion from the city.

 

The temple has stood here ever since the 5th century BC and still retains many of its impressive Doric columns constructed of white marble. It makes for a breath-taking photo opportunity, especially against the backdrop of one of its famous ocean sunsets. The columns have attracted graffiti from sightseers over the centuries, including one from the romantic poet Lord Byron who was a regular visitor. Visitors on Athens cheap city breaks will also see the remains of a sanctuary that was built in honour the goddess Athena. Excavations have garnered a rich variety of artefacts from here which even predate the temple’s construction, all the way back to the Archaic period.

 

History lovers could easily lose the best part of a day here once they view the glistening sea below, fringed by gorgeous white sand beaches. It is an incredibly popular spot for a sunset meal, with many beachfront tavernas to choose from, but at other times it has all the tranquillity of a half deserted Greek island. If offers all the relaxing joys of typical Mediterranean beach breaks, along with a rewarding Athens weekend full of ancient wonders. The views are majestic, stretching across the Aegean as far as the islands of Kythnos and the Peloponessos.