Top Things To Do In Corinth: The Temple Of Apollo & More!

Uncover the legends of Ancient Corinth! Explore the Temple of Apollo, the famous Canal and more!

Corinth is a legendary Greek city-state, perfectly blending ancient mythology, biblical history and modern engineering marvels. Situated just an hour away from Athens, it serves as a gateway to the Peloponnese and offers a quieter, though equally profound, substitute to the crowded sites of the capital.

Visiting The Temple Of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is considered as the drowning jewel of Ancient Corinth and regarded as one of the oldest Doric temples in Greece, dating back to approximately 540 BC. It was constructed using limestone on a prominent rocky hill, originally featuring 42 columns, seven of which still stand today as a proof of the city’s ancient wealth.

The Temple of Apollo is considered as the drowning jewel of Ancient Corinth and regarded as one of the oldest Doric temples in Greece. Credits: Google

What's so special about it: In contrast to other Greek temples, the columns of this temple are “monolithic” in nature, meaning they were carved from a single block of stone rather than stacked drums.

Ideal for: This temple’s visit is ideal for history enthusiasts and photographers, who are seeking stunning views of sunset over the ruins.

Scaling The Heights Of Acrocorinth

Towering 575 meters above the ancient city, Acrocorinth is regarded as the most spectacular acropolis in Greece. In the past, this fortress has been occupied for over 2,000 years by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians and Ottomans, leaving behind a fascinating history of various architectural styles.

Acrocorinth, commonly referred to as the "Corinth Castle," is the massive ancient and medieval citadel perched on a 575-meter monolithic rock overlooking Ancient Corinth in the Peloponnese region of Greece. Credits: Google

Main highlights: You can visit and explore the Temple of Aphrodite, the Acrocorinth Mosque and the Frankish Tower.

The Temple of Aphrodite in Corinth, Greece. It was constructed around 5th century BC by Medea, daughter of the king of Colchis. This temple served as a major attraction for the goddess of love, beauty, and desire. Credits: Google

Tips to remember: Make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and carry enough water with yourself, as the climb is steep and there are limited facilities at the top.

Witness The Corinth Canal

The construction of Corinth Canal was completed back in 1893, but the idea was first attempted nearly 2,500 years ago. Credits: Google

The Corinth Canal is a 6.4-kilometre-long waterway that slices through the narrow isthmus connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas. Though the construction was completed back in 1893, but the idea was first attempted nearly 2,500 years ago.

The View: Get the best view by watching it from a pedestrian bridge as massive ships navigate the narrow, vertical walls. To get a unique perspective out of it, visit the Isthmus Submersible Bridge at the east entrance, which sinks into the water to let vessels pass.

Adventures: For those seeking adventure, Bungee jumping is available, especially for those who want to experience the canal’s 79-meter drop firsthand.

Experience The Spiritual Energy

For those tourists who are interested in diving deep into religious history, Ancient Corinth is a primary pilgrimage site. The Apostle Paul lived and preached here for 18 months, founding one of the earliest Christian communities.

The “Bema”: Visit the large elevated stone platform in the Roman forum where Paul was reportedly put on trial before the proconsul Gallio.

Apostolos Pavlos Church: You can have a pleasant experience by visiting this beautiful modern church in the city center, which is dedicated to the holy saint and featuring impressive mosaics.

Apostolos Pavlos Church is dedicated to St.Apostle Paul and was built in 1936. Credits: Google

Exploring The Archaeological Museum Of Ancient Corinth

Located directly within the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth provides essential context for the ruins you’ll see outside.

Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth was built in 1932 by the American School of Classical Studies. Credits: Google

Main highlights: Look for the Twin Kouroi of Tenea, intricate Roman mosaics and artefacts that details daily life from prehistoric times though the Byzantine era.

Entry: Ticket prices vary, depending on the season you are visiting. It typically grants entry to both the museum and the ancient site.

Interior of the museum, featuring intricate Roman mosaic and artefacts that details daily life from prehistoric times to the Byzantine era. Credits: Google

Essential Travel Tips For Corinth

How to get there: Corinth is easily accessible from Athens via the Proastiakos Suburban Railway, approximately taking 1 hour, or a scenic drive along the A8 highway.

Best time to visit: The perfect time to visit for tourists is in the Spring season (April-June) and Autumn season (September-October) offering the most comfortable temperatures for hiking the expansive ruins.

Where to eat: After having done with the exploration of ruins, move forward towards the modern Village of Archaia Korinthos for traditional Greek tavernas serving local wines and grilled meats.

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Architecture, Greece, Temple Of Apollo