Where exactly is the entrance to the Temple of Olympian Zeus? I have been told the only entrance is on Leoforos Vasilisis Olgas. But Google maps indicate the entrance is at The Arch of Hadrian. Can you enter near the Arch? Is there more than one entrance? Or is it correct the only entrance in on the northeast corner of the Temple grounds on Leoforos Vasilisis Olgas? Thank you in advance for your help. It is much appreciated.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3397 posts
Yes there must be an entrance somewhere near the Arch ... I sure don't remember going over to Olgas.
Posted by
NH (USA)
1222 posts
I was there last October and didn't see an entrance near the arch. Of course I may have missed it, but I don't think so.
Had to walk to the left of the arch and a little ways to an entrance with ticket kiosk. If that's the entrance you are talking about it's not to far of a walk so should not be a problem.
There is one problem . . . trying to cross one of the busiest streets in Athens! Even when you have the walk light double check before crossing. Once the light turns green for traffic it's like the Indy 500!
Google maps tend to be a little "off" at times!
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3397 posts
He's talking about the AWFUL speedway of a street in Front of Hadrian's Arch... about 4 lanes each way, ROARING w. traffic day & night. Take the lights seriously; it's scarey.
Posted by
NH (USA)
1222 posts
Janet is correct about taking crossing the street seriously. She's a pro regarding Greece and has given me wonderful advice about itineraries and recommendations.
One interesting factor about the area around Hadrian's Arch/Temple to Zeus is once you cross the street back from the site you suddenly encounter a whole different atmosphere: narrow lanes, less traffic and a more tranquil feel to where you are. It's strange that within a few meters/feet of one of the most busiest and scariest streets to deal with you are transporated back to a more tranquil atmosphere.
It's not ancient Greece but a whole lot quieter and less demoliton derby feel of walking along narrow lanes/streets and heading back toward the Acropolis.
Athens is like that: areas of quiet, peace and tranquility combined with craziness, over-the-top traffic and hordes of tourists.
If you do your research, know where you are going you'll find Athens to be quite lovely, safe and one of the best bargains in the World!
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1419 posts
The entrance is on Vasilisis Olgas, but very close to Hadrian's Arch. With the arch behind you walk to the left around the fence and you'll come to the entrance in a couple of minutes.
While you're in the area you might like to look at the statue of Byron on the corner of Vasilisis Olgas and Vasilisis Amalias. It's literally a minute from the Arch but tucked back a little.
Alan
Posted by
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
3334 posts
I can't see where you live. If you are from Boston, street traffic will be the same so you'll be used to it. However, the motorcycles on the sidewalks are a bit worrying!
Posted by
OP
12 posts
Thanks to everyone for your replies and comments.
Keith