Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

6932 Leoforos Athinon Souniou

On a craggy promontory overlooking the Aegean, Cape Sounion is a scenic drive 70 kilometers from the city center along the Athenian Riviera. There are dozens of blue flag beaches and seaside tavernas to explore en route to the gleaming Temple of Poseidon, a pilgrimage site since 444 B.C.E. Lord Byron etched his name on one of the Doric columns and many others followed suit. Nowadays the temple is fenced off, but it’s still mesmerizing, especially at sunset.

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