The Temple of Ellanios Zeus stands on Mount Ellanion, the highest mountain on the island. It was dedicated to Zeus, the most powerful of all gods. Having been erected three generations before the Trojan War, it is the oldest temple ever revealed by archaeological research in all of Europe.
According to mythology, in a period of drought, the oracle of Delphi told Aiakos, son of Zeus and king of Aegina, that he should plead to his father in order for him to bring rainfall to the island again. The plea was heard and Aiakos built a temple to honor Zeus. The temple is found today in an area known as Sfirixtres.
The ruins of the temple of Ellanios Zeus reflect the magnificence of the ancient constructions. There still remain two huge terraces, some cisterns and a staircase next to a Hellenistic wall. The temple gives an amazing view of the Saronic Gulf. Right next to the temple, you will find the church of Agioi Taxiarxes.
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