Temple of Athena in Alifeira

The Temple of Athena, which is mentioned by Pausanias, is the oldest and most important monument of ancient Alifeira. According to the archaeologist, Chrissi Sgouropoulou, his relics dominate the banner of the sanctuary of the goddess, which is located in the eastern part of the fortified city just below the acropolis and had access from the east through a staircase. The temple is a Doric kiosk and dates back to 500-490 BC. while presenting several archaic elements. Its mayor might being built earlier, well before 500 BC, a case which is also reinforced by the discovery of votive passages dated to the mid-6th century BC. According to historical references, around 500-490 BC the temple was converted into a Doric kiosk with 6 by 15 columns. The length of the feather classifies him in the Hundredths of Temples.

The temple might be destroyed by an earthquake, as shown by its columns found dead. In the sanctuary of Athena there should be enough votive offerings, as evidenced by the pedestals revealed and intended for statues or inscriptions. The most important of these, the bronze colossal statue of Athena, which is mentioned by Polybios and Pausanias, would be set on a pedestal that was revealed across the altar and saves part of the votive inscription. This statue, which distinguished itself for its size and art, was the work of the Theban sculptor Hydatodoros and should to be constructed in the late 5th century. B.C.

The worship of Athena was particularly important in ancient Alifeira, as there was the tradition that the goddess was born and raised in this particular area. The temple is an important monument of the late Archaic period and it is similar to the temple of Aphaia Athena in Aegina and the later temple of Epicurius Apollo in Vasses, which has several archaic elements.