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  3. Naxos Island
  4. Temple of Demeter

Temple of Demeter, Naxos Island

Photo © Kevin Bovard. View all images in our Temple of Demeter Photo Gallery.
Photo © Navin75.
Photo © Muriel Pécastaing-Boissière.
Photo © Muriel Pécastaing-Boissière.
Photo © Wendy House.

Just outside the village of Sangri on Naxos Island in the Cyclades is the attractive ruin of the Temple of Demeter. Demeter is a grain goddess, so it seems only natural to find her temple among the rich fields of Naxos.

History

The Temple of Demeter was built in the 6th century BC. The temple was partially dismantled in the 6th century AD when a church was built over it. In later centuries the site was abandoned and plundered for its marble.

What to See

Until recently, there was very little to see - none of the temple was left standing. But a few years ago, it was discovered that most of the columns and stones of the original temple still remained on site, either buried or used in the ruined chapel.

It was subsequently restored by German archaeologists to its present state, which is now intact enough to show the basic form of the Temple of Demeter at Sangri. It is one of the few known temples with a square floor plan.

Getting There

By car from Hora, follow the road to Filoti. After about 6 miles, turn onto the road signposted for Ano Sangri and the Temple of Demeter. Follow the signs for about 2 more miles to the temple. The last part of the drive is mainly on dirt roads.


Quick Facts on the Temple of Demeter

Site Information
Names:Temple of Demeter; Temple of Demeter, Naxos
City:Naxos Island
State:Cyclades
Country:Greece
cat:Temples
faith:Ancient Greek
feat:Temple to Church
style:Classical
Dates:530 BCE
Status:ruins
Visitor and Contact Information
Address:Ano Sangri, Naxos Island, Greece
Coordinates:37.036509° N, 25.430131° E  (view on Google Maps)
Opening Hours:Tues– Sun 8.30am–3pm
Cost:Free
Transport:The temple can be reached by car or a 30-minute walk from Sangri.
Lodging:View hotels near this location
Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Map of the Temple of Demeter

Below is a location map and aerial view of the Temple of Demeter. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

References

  1. Sangri & the Temple of Demeter - Frommer's Greece
  2. Central Náxos and the Tragéa - Rough Guides Greece

More Information

Article Info

Title:Temple of Demeter, Naxos Island
Author:Holly Hayes
Last updated:07/01/2009
Permalink:www.sacred-destinations.com/greece/naxos-sangri-temple-of-demeter
Link code:<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/greece/naxos-sangri-temple-of-demeter">Temple of Demeter, Naxos Island</a>