Temple of Apollo Tickets & Tours & Informataion April 2025

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo (Tempio di Apollo) is one of the most important and ancient religious sites in Pompeii. Dating back to the 6th century BC, this sacred temple predates Roman rule and was a central place of worship for the people of Pompeii. Dedicated to Apollo, the god of prophecy, healing, and the sun, the temple reflects Greek and Etruscan influences, later modified by the Romans. Today, visitors can walk among its impressive columns, admire the remains of statues, and imagine the rituals that once took place in this spiritual heart of the city.

The Basics

Located near the Forum, the Temple of Apollo was one of Pompeii’s most significant religious sites. It originally featured a large colonnaded courtyard surrounding a central altar where offerings were made. A grand staircase led to the temple’s podium, where a statue of Apollo once stood, alongside a statue of Diana, his sister. While the original bronze statues are now housed in the Naples Archaeological Museum, replicas can be seen at the site. The temple also features an ancient sundial, showing how Romans measured time.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Temple of Apollo is an open-air ruin, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, especially in summer. It is located within Pompeii’s Forum, making it easy to visit along with other key sites like the Basilica and the Temple of Jupiter. As one of the most photographed landmarks in Pompeii, early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best lighting and fewer crowds. Audio guides or guided tours can help bring the temple’s history to life.

How to Get There

The Temple of Apollo is inside the Pompeii Archaeological Park, so if you're already visiting the ruins, it’s just a short walk from the main entrance at Porta Marina. If you’re arriving from Naples or Sorrento, take the Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station, which is a 5-minute walk to the site. Guided tours from Naples and the Amalfi Coast also include visits to the temple.

When to Get There

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit, with pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Summer can be extremely hot, so visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended. Winter is the quietest season, offering a more peaceful experience, though occasional rain may limit exploration.

Day Trips from Pompeii

A visit to the Temple of Apollo is a must for anyone exploring Pompeii Archaeological Park. Since the temple is centrally located, it can easily be combined with other major ruins, such as the Forum, the House of the Faun, and the Amphitheater. After exploring Pompeii, visitors often take a half-day trip to Mount Vesuvius or the nearby ruins of Herculaneum for a more complete look at life before and after the eruption of 79 AD.