Temple E, also called the Temple of Hera, is a restored fifth-century BCE Greek temple at Selinunte Archaeological Park in Marinella, Sicily. It stands on a hill east of the ancient city, away from the coastal acropolis. Six columns rise along each end and fifteen run along each side, giving the structure a clear sense of scale. Look for traces of its original painted decoration; five carved metopes from the temple are preserved at the Salinas Museum in Palermo.
Temple E on the eastern hill
Temple E stands on a hill east of Selinunte’s ancient city, farther inland than the temples on the coastal acropolis. It dates to the fifth century BCE and is also known as the Temple of Hera.
Its scale is easy to read from the surviving colonnade: six columns stand at each end, with fifteen along each side. Restoration has returned substantial parts of the temple to view. The building is the most recent of the temples on the eastern hill, where Temples F and G also stand.
Colour and carved metopes
The temple’s original decoration included rich colours, some traces of which have survived. Carved limestone metopes, with marble elements, once decorated the frieze on the short sides of the cella. Five of the twelve are preserved at the Salinas Museum in Palermo.
To explore more of the archaeological park, you can join a guided tour or use its shuttles. Reception staff can also suggest how to continue your visit.
FAQ
Where is the Temple of Hera?
Temple E is at Selinunte Archaeological Park in Marinella, Sicily. It stands on a hill east of the ancient city.
How old is Temple E?
The temple dates to the fifth century BCE.
What can you see at Temple E?
See its restored structure, rows of columns and surviving traces of painted decoration. Five carved metopes from the temple are kept at the Salinas Museum in Palermo.
