Paestum Tour: Best Preserved Temples in the World (UNESCO)

Paestum is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. The guided tour takes you through the Archaeological National Park, where you’ll marvel at the grand scale and intricate details of the Doric temples of Hera, Poseidon, and Ceres. But there’s more to discover beyond these iconic structures, as the tour also delves into Paestum’s rich Roman heritage, revealing a captivating glimpse into the city’s history as a center of culture and spirituality. With the museum’s renowned exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable archaeological treasure.

Key Points

• Paestum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts three well-preserved Doric temples from the 6th-5th centuries BCE, making it a prime destination for ancient Greek architecture.
• The massive Temple of Poseidon, built in 460 BCE, is the largest of the three temples and impresses with its grand proportions and intricate details.
• The Temple of Hera, dating back to around 550 BCE, is the oldest and largest of the three temples, showcasing the architectural sophistication of the Magna Graecia civilization.
• The modest but exceptional Temple of Ceres, dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, offers a serene sanctuary and a masterpiece of classical Greek design.
• The tour also includes exploring the Roman-era forum and amphitheater, providing a fascinating contrast to the ancient Greek temples and a glimpse into Paestum’s evolution over the centuries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Paestum Tour: Best Preserved Temples in the World (UNESCO)

Tour Overview
The tour provides a guided exploration of the Archaeological National Park and Museum, lasting approximately 2 hours and offering multilingual options in Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian for a private group experience.

Visitors will discover the perfectly preserved temples of Hera, Poseidon, and Ceres, as well as the amphitheater and Roman forum.

The experience culminates with an exploration of the Archaeological Museum, where the famous Tomb of the Diver is a highlight.

With a focus on the history and key attractions of this ancient Magna Graecia city, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive introduction to the wonders of Paestum.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors on the tour will discover the perfectly preserved temples of Hera, Poseidon, and Ceres, which stand as some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.

They’ll also explore the amphitheater and Roman forum, gaining insights into the site’s rich history.

The Temple of Hera, the oldest, impresses with its grand Doric style, measuring 26 meters wide and 55 meters long.

The massive Temple of Poseidon, built in 460 BCE, is the largest of the three.

Meanwhile, the modest but exceptional Temple of Ceres offers a sanctuary dedicated to Athena.

Exploring these key attractions and the renowned Archaeological Museum will undoubtedly be a highlight of the Paestum tour.

History of Paestum

The ancient city of Paestum, formerly known as Poseidonia, has a rich and storied history dating back to the 6th century BCE when it was founded as a Greek colony in the region of Magna Graecia. The city was later conquered by the Romans and renamed Paestum, where it continued to thrive for centuries. Paestum’s history is marked by its dedication to the worship of powerful deities, as evidenced by the three well-preserved Doric temples that remain standing today. These temples, along with the Roman forum and amphitheater, offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s past and its role as a center of culture and spirituality in the ancient world.

Period	Key Events
Greek (6th – 5th century BCE)	Founding of Poseidonia as Greek colony
Roman (273 BCE – 500 CE)	Conquest by Romans, renamed Paestum
Medieval (500 – 1500 CE)	Decline and abandonment of the city
Modern (18th century)	Rediscovery and archaeological excavations

The Temple of Hera

One of Paestum’s most impressive structures is the Temple of Hera, also known as the Basilica – the oldest and largest of the three famous Doric temples in the archaeological park.

This majestic temple, built around 550 BCE, measures an impressive 26 meters wide and 55 meters long. Its well-preserved Doric columns and intricate architectural details transport visitors back to the height of ancient Greek civilization.

As the oldest temple at Paestum, the Temple of Hera offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the Magna Graecia region. Exploring this iconic landmark is a must-do for anyone visiting the UNESCO-listed Paestum site.

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The Temple of Poseidon

After exploring the impressive Temple of Hera, visitors can turn their attention to the largest of Paestum’s ancient Doric temples – the majestic Temple of Poseidon.

Built around 460 BCE, this temple measures an imposing 24 meters wide and 60 meters long, dwarfing its neighbor. Its well-preserved columns and grand proportions evoke the power and ambition of the Magna Graecia civilization that once flourished here.

Dedicated to the sea god Poseidon, the temple’s magnificent design and scale make it a highlight of any visit to Paestum. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architecture and imagine the rituals and ceremonies that once took place within its ancient walls.

The Temple of Ceres

Nestled within Paestum’s ancient ruins, the modest yet exceptional Temple of Ceres stands as a testament to the sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Athena. Though smaller in scale compared to its neighboring temples, this Doric-style structure captivates visitors with its impeccable preservation and architectural elegance.

Dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, the Temple of Ceres was a place of reverence and reflection for the ancient inhabitants of Paestum.

Measuring 18 meters wide and 40 meters long, the temple’s dimensions are striking, showcasing the ingenuity of its ancient designers.

Adorned with intricate metopes and triglyphs, the temple’s facade is a true masterpiece of classical Greek architecture.

Visitors can explore the temple’s interior, where the presence of Athena is palpable, and gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual practices of the ancient world.

The Roman Forum and Amphitheater

Beyond the Doric temples, Paestum’s Roman legacy is showcased in the well-preserved Forum and Amphitheater, which offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s imperial past.

The Roman Forum was the commercial and civic heart of Paestum, where citizens gathered for business, politics, and social activities.

The adjacent Amphitheater, with its imposing stone seating, hosted lively entertainment, from gladiatorial contests to theatrical performances.

Strolling through these impressive ruins, one can practically feel the energy and vibrance of ancient Roman life.

These ruins provide a powerful contrast to the serene temples, demonstrating Paestum’s evolution from a Greek colony to a thriving Roman municipium over the centuries.

Iconic Museum Exhibits

In the Paestum Archaeological Museum, visitors are captivated by an array of iconic exhibits. The renowned 33 metopes from the Temple of Hera Argiva offer a remarkable glimpse into ancient Greek sculpture.

The striking Statue of Zeus commands attention, while the ornate Crater with the Rape of Europe showcases the region’s artistic prowess.

However, the museum’s crown jewel is the celebrated Tomb of the Diver – a limestone sarcophagus adorned with parietal paintings that provide a unique window into the funerary practices of Magna Graecia.

Some of the museum’s standout exhibits include:

• 33 metopes from the Temple of Hera Argiva
• Statue of Zeus
• Crater with the Rape of Europe
• Tomb of the Diver

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour experience at Paestum has no set group size, allowing visitors to customize their experience. The tour is designed for intimate groups to explore the well-preserved temples and museum at their own pace.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Archaeological Site?

Photography is allowed throughout the archaeological site, but the use of tripods and flash photography is restricted. Visitors are encouraged to capture the stunning ancient ruins and artifacts during the guided tour.

Are There Any Physical Limitations for the Tour?

There are no major physical limitations for the tour. Visitors can expect a moderate amount of walking and standing. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though individuals with mobility issues should inquire about accessibility.

Can Visitors Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

Visitors can purchase tour tickets on the day of the tour, subject to availability. It’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot, as the tours can sell out during peak seasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Visitors have the option to extend the 2-hour tour to spend more time exploring the archaeological site and museum at their own pace.

Recap

Paestum’s UNESCO-protected Archaeological National Park and Museum offer an immersive experience into the region’s ancient Greek and Roman heritage.

Visitors can marvel at the perfectly preserved Doric temples, explore the Roman forum and amphitheater, and discover iconic exhibits like the Tomb of the Diver.

This comprehensive tour provides an unparalleled glimpse into the cultural and spiritual significance of this remarkable archaeological site.

You can check availability for your dates here: