The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae stands at 1,131 metres above sea level in the mountains of Arcadia — one of the most remote and atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece. Designed by Ictinos, the same architect responsible for the Parthenon in Athens, it was built by the citizens of Phigalia in gratitude to Apollo for deliverance from a plague in the 5th century BC. The temple is covered by a large protective tent that gives it an otherworldly appearance; inside, the carved frieze panels (now in the British Museum in London) are represented by detailed casts. The journey through the mountains of Arcadia is itself a remarkable experience.
The protective tent was erected in 1987 to shield the temple from the severe weather conditions at altitude — snow, ice and UV exposure were causing serious deterioration of the stone. The tent is not ideal aesthetically but has been effective in slowing the erosion. It also means the temple can be visited in any weather, including cloudy and rainy days when the mountain setting becomes even more dramatic.
The two sites offer very different experiences. Olympia is grander in scale and richer in museum content. Bassae is more remote, more intimate and architecturally more sophisticated. For a visitor who has already seen Olympia and wants a more adventurous day out, Bassae is an exceptional choice. The combination of the mountain drive, the Andritsaina village and the temple itself makes for a genuinely memorable day.
Yes, though it makes for a long day. Bassae is approximately 35 km south of Ancient Olympia by mountain road. We recommend visiting Olympia in the morning (it opens at 08:00) and Bassae in the afternoon, returning via Andritsaina. Discuss this itinerary with your driver in advance.
