Hekatompedon Temple

Introduction: Discover Athens’ Early Architectural Marvel

The Hekatompedon Temple—often called the “hundred-footed” temple—represents a foundational chapter in the religious and architectural history of ancient Athens. Nestled atop the Acropolis, this Archaic-period temple (ca. 570–550 BCE) predates the Parthenon and offers unique insight into early monumental Greek architecture and the development of Athenian civic identity (Wikipedia; greeking.me). Though the temple itself no longer stands, its enduring legacy is preserved through archaeological remnants in the Acropolis Museum and in ancient inscriptions, such as the "Decrees of the Hekatompedon," and through remarkable finds like the shepherd Mikon’s graffito—shedding light on the wider social impact of this lost monument (Arkeonews; LabrujaLaVerde).

This guide details the Hekatompedon’s historical context, architectural features, religious role, and practical visitor information—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for exploring the Acropolis and its museum. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or a traveler eager to experience Athens’ deep past, this resource will help you explore the Hekatompedon’s story and its place in Athenian heritage (Acropolis Museum; greeka.com).

Origins and Construction of the Hekatompedon

The Hekatompedon—sometimes called the Ur-Parthenon or H–Architektur—was built during the Archaic period (ca. 570–550 BCE) and is one of the earliest monumental temples on the Acropolis (Wikipedia). Its name comes from the Greek “hekaton” (hundred) and “pous” (foot), describing a structure approximately 100 feet (c. 46 meters) long (La Vanguardia). Constructed mainly from local limestone and decorated with marble elements, it once stood on the spot now occupied by the Parthenon (Trek Zone).

Key architectural features:

• Doric peripteral plan: Likely 6 columns on the short sides, 16 on the long.
• Two cellas: Possibly for cult statues or separate rituals.
• Pedimental sculptures: Early large-scale depictions of mythological scenes, visible today as fragments in the Acropolis Museum (Acropolis Museum).

Archaeological Evidence and Recent Discoveries

The Hekatompedon’s existence is confirmed by ancient inscriptions, such as the “Decrees of the Hekatompedon” (485/4 BCE), which reference its use as a civic treasury (Arkeonews).

A recent and significant find is a graffito by the shepherd Mikon, discovered on Barako Hill near Vari. Dating to the late 6th century BCE, it depicts a colonnaded temple labeled “Hekatompedon” in archaic Greek, providing the earliest known written reference to the temple and showing its presence in popular consciousness (Archaeology Magazine; Greek Reporter; Independent).

Religious and Civic Significance

Dedicated to Athena Polias, patron goddess of Athens, the Hekatompedon was central to religious life and city identity (Greek Mythology Worldwide). It hosted major festivals (like the Panathenaic Festival) and functioned as the city’s treasury (Gods Collections). The temple’s elaborate sculptural decoration, such as the west pediment showing Herakles battling Triton, reflects the mythological and civic ideals of Archaic Athens (Acropolis Museum).

Destruction and Enduring Legacy

The Hekatompedon was deliberately demolished around 490 BCE after the Athenian victory at Marathon, making way for the Older Parthenon, which was itself destroyed in 480 BCE during the Persian sack (Wikipedia; Gods Collections). Its ruins were used as fill for the Classical Parthenon (begun in 447 BCE).

Although the original temple is gone, its memory endures through inscriptions, reused architectural fragments, and ongoing archaeological discoveries (Gods Collections; LabrujaLaVerde).

What Remains Today: Visiting the Hekatompedon

Acropolis Site

No standing remains of the Hekatompedon survive. Its foundations lie beneath and around the southern part of the Parthenon (Greece High Definition). Some architectural blocks and sculptures were incorporated into later structures and are visible in the Acropolis Museum (Archaeology Magazine; Athens by Locals).

Acropolis Museum

Key fragments—such as the “Pediment of the Hekatompedon” depicting lions and mythological scenes—are on display with detailed interpretive panels (Acropolis Museum). The museum’s glass floor also reveals ancient remains below.

Practical Information

Visiting Hours

• Acropolis Archaeological Site: Open daily, typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM (summer); shorter hours in winter. Last entry 30 minutes before closing (Frolic & Courage).
• Acropolis Museum: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; closed Mondays (Nomadic Matt).

Tickets and Admission

• Acropolis ticket: €20 (summer), €10 (winter). Combined ticket (€30) covers multiple sites for five days (Nomadic Matt).
• Acropolis Museum: €15 (summer), €10 (winter).
• Purchase: Online in advance (recommended) or on-site.
• Free/Reduced Entry: EU citizens under 25, children, and others—see official site for details.

Accessibility

• The Acropolis is partially accessible, with an elevator available for visitors with mobility issues (advance notice recommended). The Acropolis Museum is fully accessible (Ancient Greece Wanderings).

Getting There

• Location: Central Athens. Metro stop: Acropolis station. Multiple bus/taxi options available.

Guided Tours

• Guided tours (group or private) are highly recommended, as they provide context on the Hekatompedon and pre-Parthenon temples, and interpret museum displays (Nomadic Matt).

Nearby Attractions

• Ancient Agora, Temple of Hephaestus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and Plaka neighborhood are all within walking distance.

Photographic Spots

• Best views: Areopagus Hill, Philopappos Hill, and the Acropolis Museum’s upper terraces.

Practical Visitor Tips

• Best times: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat (Frolic & Courage).
• Dress/gear: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, hat, and sunscreen.
• Respect: Stay on paths, don’t touch or climb on ruins (The Novel Sphere).
• Museum: Allow 1.5–2 hours for the Acropolis Museum.
• Facilities: Restrooms and water fountains available on-site.
• Weather: In summer, the Acropolis may close during extreme heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Hekatompedon visiting hours?
A: The Acropolis is open daily, usually 8:00 AM–8:00 PM in summer; shorter in winter.

Q: Where can I see remains of the Hekatompedon?
A: Fragments are displayed in the Acropolis Museum; on-site, only foundation blocks beneath the Parthenon remain.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many tours of the Acropolis and museum include the Hekatompedon’s history.

Q: Is the Acropolis accessible?
A: Partially, with an elevator for visitors with mobility challenges (advance arrangement recommended); the museum is fully accessible.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Acropolis: €20 (standard); Museum: €15 (summer). Combined Acropolis ticket: €30 for multiple sites.

Cultural and Interpretive Insights

The Hekatompedon’s story illuminates Athens’ resilience and the continuity of sacred tradition on the Acropolis. Its incorporation into the Parthenon’s foundations symbolizes both loss and renewal. The Mikon graffito discovery is the earliest epigraphic evidence of the temple’s name, illustrating the blend of elite and popular engagement with monumental architecture (Archaeology Magazine; LabrujaLaVerde).

For modern visitors, the Hekatompedon is a symbol of Athens’ layered past and living heritage—connecting the city’s ancient devotion, artistic expression, and civic pride (Welcome Greece).

Enhance Your Visit

• Acropolis Museum: Start your visit here for context and to see actual Hekatompedon fragments.
• Guided Tours: Book tours that highlight the Acropolis’ layered history.
• Digital Resources: Use the Acropolis Virtual Tour and apps like Audiala for immersive guides.
• Social Media: Follow updates for the latest archaeological news.

Suggested visuals:

• Acropolis with Parthenon (alt: "Acropolis of Athens showing site of Hekatompedon temple")
• Close-ups of Hekatompedon sculptures in the museum (alt: "Hekatompedon west pediment sculptures at Acropolis Museum")
• Map of the Acropolis highlighting Hekatompedon’s location