Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, Figaleia
Description
Ictinus’s Stone Firmament: Where the Three Orders of Antiquity Rise to the Mountain Peaks
The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, Figaleia , is one of the most enigmatic, imposing, and architecturally brilliant monuments of world heritage. It stands in isolation amidst the mountainous heights of the Peloponnese (at an altitude of 1,130 meters), at the borders of Elis, Arcadia, and Messenia. A remarkable distinction of the temple is that it was the first Greek monument to be inscribed on the UNESCO list (1986) ; it is also rightly considered the "Parthenon of the Peloponnese," having been designed by the same renowned architect, Ictinus, during the second half of the 5th century BC.
- Architectural Originality: A world-class architectural masterpiece that combines, for the first time, all three architectural orders of antiquity . Its exterior is Doric and its interior features Ionic engaged columns, while at the rear of the *naos* (inner sanctuary) stood a column topped with the oldest Corinthian capital in the world . Furthermore, it possesses a rare geographical peculiarity: unlike almost all ancient Greek temples, it is oriented North-South.
- Suitable for: Architecture enthusiasts, hikers, history buffs, and travelers seeking a mystical experience off the beaten path. The temple was dedicated by the ancient inhabitants of Phigaleia to Apollo "Epikourios" (meaning "Helper" or "Ally") because he had saved them from a deadly plague epidemic. Its famous marble Ionic frieze (a work by Paionios, depicting the Centauromachy and the Amazonomachy) was removed in 1812 and is currently on display at the British Museum.
- Infrastructure & Protection: Due to the mountain's extreme weather conditions (frost, humidity) and unstable soil, the temple has been protected since 1987 by a giant, specially designed white canopy (tent), which completely covers it for the duration of the meticulous and exemplary restoration work carried out by the Ministry of Culture. The archaeological site features basic signage and information boards but lacks dining facilities.
- Access: The journey involves driving through impressive mountain scenery. The best route is by road via Andritsaina (located 14 km—or about 25 minutes—away), while the drive from Megalopoli takes approximately one hour. Although the road is mountainous and winding, it leads directly to the archaeological site's parking area. It takes just 2–3 minutes to walk from the entrance to the interior of the protective canopy.
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