Paestum, which is about 85 K southeast of Naples, is the home of three major Greek temples dating from the first half of the 6th century B.C., two dedicated to Hera and one to Athena. We were there in early June 2010 and it was one of the highlights of our trip. It’s also known for its painted tombs and the museum near the temples contains frescoes, statues and earthware taken from the tombs. We also had an unforgettable meal in a somewhat non-descript restaurant nearby.
Ohhh these photos are magnificent. Paestum is a long drive from Naples in a little Fiat 500. I was taken there in 1975 by my Neapolitan boyfriend and a friend of his because they knew I loved ancient Greek temples. But I wasn’t allowed to spend time walking around the temple (we saw the Temple of Athena) because it was lunch time and it was far more important to eat at the restaurant which overlooked the temple! I never knew until now that there were 2 other temples there! It was a very funny day just the same, with the cherry-blossom trees all just in pink buds. I am so happy to see these beautiful photos. Guendalina from Australia.
I had just been to The Acropolis in Athens for the first time the year before. I was amazed when the Temple of Athena at Paestum came into view because it seemed more beautiful, more complete and in better condition than the world-famous temple on The Acropolis. To think there were three…and so far from Naples (Napoli or Neapolis)….. Guendalina from Oz
It was the second temple of Hera that I saw, not the temple of Athena. Guendalina.