Location: Sangri
Situated near the village of Sangri, about 10 km from Naxos Town, the Temple of Demeter is an ancient sanctuary built entirely from high-quality Naxos marble, dating back to the 6th century BC.
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As the goddess of agriculture, harvest, and fertility, Demeter was worshipped on fertile lands like those surrounding Sangri, where this temple was constructed.
The Rise of the Temple
Excavations indicate that the site had been used for religious purposes since the late Mycenaean period, when worship was typically conducted in open-air sanctuaries. The present temple was built around 530–520 BC in the Doric style, which later influenced the design of the Parthenon in Athens. Its well-preserved sections have provided archaeologists with valuable insight into Greek architecture of the era.
The temple was commissioned during the reign of Lygdamis, the tyrant of Naxos, who aimed to create some of the most magnificent monuments in Greece, including the Temple of Demeter and the Portara (originally intended as part of a grand temple dedicated to Apollo that was never completed).
The Decline
After the 3rd century BC, the temple’s significance waned. With the rise of Christianity, it was converted into a Christian basilica, featuring a small church dedicated to Saint John built within its structure using marble from the original temple. Only minor modifications were made to the ancient monument.
The church was likely destroyed in the 6th century AD during an Arabic invasion, though some remnants remain. It was reconstructed in 1977 at a new location to the south.
Restoration Efforts
The remains of the ancient temple were first discovered by archaeologist Nikolaos Kontoleon in 1949, with excavations continuing from 1976 to 1995. Many fragments were recovered from the surrounding area, despite some being looted over time.
In the mid-1990s, a team of German archaeologists partially restored the temple, reviving its historical grandeur. Today, the Temple of Demeter stands as one of the most beautiful ancient Greek temples, set amid the scenic surroundings of Sangri. Original fragments not used in restoration are displayed in a nearby museum, open daily except Tuesdays from 08:30 to 15:30. Entrance to the outdoor archaeological site is free.
How to Get There
Location: Sangri Village, Naxos
Private Transfers:
Pre-book online for a taxi, minibus, or VIP car pickup from the port, airport, or your hotel. Local drivers can also be contacted at 0030 22850 25835 or 0030 22850 24829.
Car Rental:
Renting a car allows visitors to explore the Temple of Demeter and other attractions at their own pace, with pickup available from the port, airport, or hotel.
Public Transport:
The main bus station is at the Port of Naxos. Bus lines 2, 6, and 7 run from Chora to Sangri, though schedules vary by season. Visitors are advised to inform the driver of their final destination, as buses may not stop at every designated location.
