The Portara – The unfinished Temple of Apollon of Naxos

When the Temple finally was abandoned, nobody knew that all the seemingly wasted work and money was not wasted at all.Tens of hundreds of years later the Portara became one of the most photograped structures of the Cyclades and the perfect icon for Naxos.

So, what's the deal with the Portara? Well, it's a massive marble doorway, the entrance to an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo. Imagine a colossal gateway leading to a temple that was never completed – the Greeks sure knew how to make a statement, even if it's in the form of an eternal work in progress.

This grand arch stands on the islet of Palatia, just a short swim away from the heart of Naxos Town. The Portara is believed to have been constructed during the 6th century BC, making it a proud survivor of centuries and a witness to the ebb and flow of history.

Now, here's a juicy tidbit: The Portara is linked to a fascinating piece of mythology. Legend has it that Theseus, the hero of Athens, abandoned Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos, on the island of Naxos. The Portara, being part of an unfinished temple for Apollo, is said to be a testament to this mythological drama.

The best part? The Portara provides a front-row seat to one of the most mesmerizing sunsets you'll ever witness. Imagine the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the marble structure – it's a view that could make even Apollo himself jealous.

So, when in Naxos, make sure to pay your respects to the Portara. It's not just a doorway; it's a portal to a bygone era, where myths and history collide in a stunning dance of time. Cheers to ancient marvels and Aegean sunsets!

It is a large marble doorway located and the most famous landmark on the island and is considered one of the most significant ancient Greek structures in the Cyclades.

The Portara was originally part of a temple dedicated to the god Apollo, which was constructed in the 6th century BCE. The temple was never completed, but the Portara, which served as the entrance to the temple, was built and still stands today.

The Portara is made of Naxian marble and stands at a height of over 26 feet. It consists of four massive marble columns and a lintel, or crossbeam, that is over 17 feet long and weighs approximately 20 tons. The doorway is located on a hill overlooking the sea, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the temple and view the Portara up close. In former times, the Portara could only be reached by boat, but today a narrow dam connects the island with the city. But take care, the waves come from both sides of the waves and you will probably get wet.