The 7 most important Archaeological Sites of Samos

Want to learn about the history of Samos island? Visit the archaeological sites and museums.

The most popular site is Heraion, home to the temple of Hera, mother of Gods. The great altar was rebuilt during the Roman times as was the Sacred Road with its many monuments, leading to ancient Samos, today’s Pythagorion.

Heraion was built in the era of the dictator Polycrates (somewhere between 538-522B.C.) It is a dipteral temple built in Ionic rhythm, with a single pillar still standing, at approximately half its original size.

Among these ruins, found in the area of Pythagorion, is an ancient castle from the Byzantine times. It is widely believed that the Samian dictator resided there.

In newer history, the castle is connected to Lykourgos Logothetis, who rebuilt it and used it as his headquarter during the revolution of 1820. Logothetis housed his family here and also provided shelter to rebels. The tower of the castle was restored and turned into a monument.

Another fort is one that Sarakinis built somewhere in the late 16th century to protect the area from the pirates storming the seas back then.

In Pythagorion sits the archaeological site of Thermon, a single organized space, with locker rooms, hot baths and swimming pool that constitute a large athletic facility.

Last, but not least, is the Eupalinio origma (tunnel), one of the biggest technical achievements of ancient Greece. It’s the aqueduct that brought water from a water source outside Mitilineous to Pythagorion through pipes that penetrate the Kastro mountain.

As for museums, many are situated in Samos town (Vathi), Karlovasi and of course Pythagorion. Many hotels are a short distance from the archaeological areas.

The archaeological sites of Samos island will definitely enrich your holiday experience and give you the opportunity to take back great photos and memories.