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Altar of Hieron
37.0596° N, 15.2937° E
About
The Altar of Hieron (Italian: Ara di Ierone) or the Great Altar of Syracuse is a monumental grand altar in the ancient quarter of Neapolis in Syracuse, Sicily. It was built in the Hellenistic period in Magna Graecia by King Hiero II and is the largest altar known from antiquity.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Expulsion of Deinomenid tyrant (Eleutheria festival)
466 BCE
Third phase of Greek theatre (dating evidence for altar)
after 235 BCE
Votive deposits in grotto
Archaic and Classical periods
Quarrying for Ortygia fortifications
early 1400s
Amateur excavations
1780, 1813, 1839
Systematic excavations by Koldewey and Puchstein
1893
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Water Management Features
Public and Civic Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
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