World Heritage Sites in Greece to Visit This Summer

Known For : Temple of Zeus Temple of Hera Ancient Stadium of Olympia

The Archaeological Site of Olympia is one of Greece’s most iconic UNESCO sites, home to the ancient Olympic Games. Located in the western Peloponnese, Olympia was a major Pan-Hellenic religious sanctuary dedicated to Zeus. Visitors can explore the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the ancient stadium, and various other structures that highlight the site's importance in ancient Greek culture and religious life. The accompanying museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including the renowned statue of Hermes by Praxiteles.

Best Time: April to June and September to October

14 Olympia Attractions

The Acropolis of Athens, a symbol of classical spirit and civilization, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient citadel contains several significant buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, all epitomizing the architectural brilliance of ancient Greece. The Acropolis stands as a testament to the artistic and political achievements of the Athenians in the 5th century BCE, offering unparalleled insights into the city's historical and cultural legacy.

Delphi is a town, and a UNESCO recognised world heritage site in Greece. This archaeological marvel is perched on Mount Parnassus and offers stunning vistas of the Greek land. Delphi is also known as the 'navel of Earth' as, according to Greek mythology, it was considered the center of the world, marked by the Omphalos, a symbolic navel stone. Delphi enjoys a significant role in shaping the region's history since it is said to be the home to the legendary Delphic Oracle, where the pilgrims would travel to hear the prophecies of the god Apollo from all around the Mediterranean.

Best Time: April to October

Delos, an uninhabited island in the Cyclades, is a UNESCO World Heritage site of great archaeological significance. According to mythology, it was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The site features the remains of temples, marketplaces, theatres, and houses, reflecting its importance as a major religious and commercial center in ancient Greece. The extensive ruins and the island's museum provide a comprehensive view of its historical and cultural significance.

The Medieval City of Rhodes, located on the island of Rhodes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. This fortified city was built by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem in the 14th century and showcases a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine influences. Key landmarks include the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, and various churches and mosques that reflect the city's diverse historical heritage.

The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Greece, is a fine example of Venetian architecture blended with local Greek influences. The town’s narrow streets, fortresses, and squares reflect its historical significance as a strategic location in the Mediterranean, controlled by various powers over the centuries. Key landmarks include the Old Fortress, the New Fortress, and the Liston promenade, which together narrate the island's rich and diverse cultural history.

Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Greece, is famous for its monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars. Built between the 14th and 16th centuries, these monasteries are a marvel of medieval architecture and are significant for their historical, religious, and artistic importance. The site includes six active monasteries, each with unique frescoes and artifacts, offering a profound sense of spirituality and history amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

Mount Athos, an autonomous monastic state in northeastern Greece, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spiritual and cultural heritage. The region is home to 20 monasteries, many of which date back to the Byzantine era. These monasteries, set in a stunning natural landscape, are significant for their religious, historical, and artistic contributions to Orthodox Christianity.

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, constructed in the 5th century BCE, is a significant UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique blend of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian architectural styles. Located in a remote mountainous region of the Peloponnese, the temple is renowned for its well-preserved state and for featuring one of the earliest examples of Corinthian columns. This sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, the god of healing and the sun, reflects the advanced architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Greece.

The Historic Centre (Chorá) of Patmos, along with the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in 1088, the monastery is an important center of Christian pilgrimage and scholarship. The Cave of the Apocalypse is traditionally believed to be where Saint John received his visions, which he recorded in the Book of Revelation. The site is significant for its religious, historical, and cultural heritage.

The Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece that offer insight into the Mycenaean civilization, one of the country's earliest and most influential cultures. Mycenae is renowned for the Lion Gate, the Treasury of Atreus, and the palace complex, while Tiryns is known for its impressive Cyclopean walls. These sites are crucial for understanding the development of ancient Greek architecture, art, and society.

Thessaloniki’s Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments are a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising several early Christian and Byzantine churches and monuments. Notable structures include the Rotunda of Galerius, the Church of Saint Demetrios, and the Hagia Sophia. These buildings, dating from the 4th to 15th centuries, showcase the development of Byzantine architecture and art, reflecting the city's historical significance as a major cultural and religious center.

The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, dedicated to the god of medicine, is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site in the Peloponnese. This healing center was famous throughout the ancient Greek world and includes the well-preserved ancient theatre, celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, and the Tholos, a circular building of mysterious function. The site reflects the significance of health and healing in ancient Greek society and the architectural advancements of the time.

These three monasteries, located in different parts of Greece, are UNESCO World Heritage sites celebrated for their exquisite Byzantine architecture and mosaics. Daphni Monastery near Athens, Hosios Loukas in Boeotia, and Nea Moni on Chios Island showcase the highest expression of Middle Byzantine religious art and architecture. Their well-preserved frescoes and mosaics offer a vivid depiction of Byzantine spiritual life and artistic achievements.

The Archaeological Site of Aigai (modern Vergina) in northern Greece is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense historical significance. As the first capital of the Kingdom of Macedon, it is renowned for its royal tombs, including that of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. The site's museum houses a wealth of artifacts, including gold and silver treasures, which highlight the opulence and cultural achievements of the ancient Macedonian kingdom.

Mystras, located in the Peloponnese, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the Byzantine Empire's splendor. This fortified town was once a thriving cultural and intellectual center. Visitors can explore the ruins of palaces, churches, and monasteries, including the Palace of the Despots and the Monastery of Pantanassa. Mystras provides a profound insight into the Byzantine period's artistic and architectural achievements.

The Pythagoreion and Heraion on the island of Samos are UNESCO World Heritage sites that highlight the island's ancient historical significance. The Pythagoreion includes ruins of ancient fortifications, an aqueduct, and public buildings, while the Heraion is a large sanctuary dedicated to Hera, the queen of the gods. These sites reflect the advanced engineering and religious practices of ancient Samos.

The Archaeological Site of Philippi, located in Eastern Macedonia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical and cultural significance. Founded by Philip II of Macedon, the site includes a well-preserved theatre, basilicas, and remnants of early Christian churches. Philippi played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in Europe, being the location where Apostle Paul established the first Christian congregation on European soil.

The Zagori Cultural Landscape, added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2023, is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Located in Epirus, this region features traditional stone-built villages, arched bridges, and monasteries set against the rugged mountainous terrain of the Pindus range. Zagori's well-preserved architecture and harmonious relationship with its natural environment make it a significant example of sustainable cultural landscape management.