Last Updated on February 8, 2023 by Left Lane
This ancient temple from around the 6th Century B.C., was discovered by kids from a local Orphanage in Vouliagmeni Greece, as they were playing in the sand.
The beach these kids were playing on, is today known as Astir Beach. One of the most beautiful beaches in Vouliagmeni.
Hidden Beneath the Sands
What the kids had uncovered were the Ancient remains, of the Temple of Apollo Zoster. Dating back to the late 6th Century B.C.
The kids uncovered marble bases, column drums, and part of an inscription which identified the Temple Remains as the “Sanctuary of Apollo Zoster”
Their find triggered an Archaeological Excavation in 1926, which lasted until 1927 and finally brought the over 2300 year old, long forgotten Temple back into the light.
A Tale From Greek Mythology
In the Greek Legend of Apollo. His mother Leto was one of the Titanides, being the daughter of the Titan Coeus. Her beauty was said to be so incredible that she attracted the eyes of Zeus.
Zeus impregnated Leto with twins, Apollo, and Artemis. This infuriated Hera, the wife of Zeus. In a wrathful jealous rage Hera relentlessly pursued Leto, and cursed her, so that every land would reject, and turn their backs on Leto. Refusing her shelter and sanctuary during her pregnancy.
A Masterpiece
During her quest to find a place to safely rest and give birth to her twin boys. She came upon the the very shores, of what is today Astir Beach, and here she loosened her “Zoster – gilt belt, or girdle” (Namesake of the Temple) as she was close to giving birth.
From here, at her vantage point upon modern day Astir Beach. She was able to loosen her Zoster and enter the Myrtoan Sea, which lead her to a floating island created by Zeus to give her refuge from Hera, this island is called Delos.
In one of the tales from Greek Mythology, about the plight of Leto, it is said that as a Thank You. For allowing her refuge, during her pregnancy, Leto gifted the people of Delos a present by anchoring the floating island to the ocean floor, with 4 great anchors. Stabilizing the Island & saving it down to this very day.
Want to discover more about Apollo? Check out this unique artwork we encountered in another adventure: RIGHT HERE
Kick Back & Relax
The best way to experience the Ancient Ruins of the Temple of Apollo Zoster is to purchase admission to Astir Beach. Delve into the ancient history that surrounds the location & then enjoy yourself.
Astir Beach has many amenities, including full bathrooms with individual private showers, a restaurant and bar.
Each beach umbrella has an intercom button on them, just press the button & order food & drinks right from the beach, without ever leaving your spot in the sun!
The Roving Gypsy®
Thanks for reading my Travel Blog, I hope you enjoyed this adventure as much as we did. Like what you read, & want more, or have a suggestion? Follow, Share, Comment, & let me know.
