Giardino della Kolymbethra

We visited today while we were at the Valley of the Temples—sort of as an afterthought, but it turned out to be as fascinating as anything we saw today! A lush garden with dozens of orange and lemon trees and a fascinating history. Their staff were really knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the past and future of the Giardino, and offered samples of some of the marmalade they make with the fruit raised there. A unique place and a fine contrast to the stony monuments. Well worth the visit!

It is a fantastic place, where you can enjoy a wonderful walk through the orchards and the gurgling waters that flow all around. You will enjoy the fruits as well and the wonderful scents of plantsIt is a fantastic place, where you can enjoy a wonderful walk through the orchards and the gurgling waters that flow all around. You will enjoy the fruits as well and the wonderful scents of plants

Wow! Beautiful botanical garden on the site of the ancient Greek garden at the foot of the Valley of Temples. Also not to miss: the "hypogeum" -- an ancient tunnel carved through the hill (under the Temple of Castor and Pollux) joining the garden with the Fifth Gate. After baking your brains out visiting the temple complex under the merciless sun, treat yourself.

Enter The Valley of the Temple from the door. 5 (porta V) is the closest entrance to the gardens. The entrance will be next to the first temple. By giardino they mean a mainly lemon fields and a small vegetable garden. The cave can’t be visit without a previous booking so make sure you book un advance. No information charts are around the area so it makes the visit a bit boring without much info. I believe the place has great potential but a thought storytelling is needed. Many benches and places for a rest is good so bring food and you can sit here.

If you like ruins and history, this place is amazing. The ruins are in very good condition. Some have been reconstructed, but the main temple is the original as it was used as a church and thus not destroyed for its stone. If possible, I strongly suggest that you hire a local guide as there is so much rich history and so many stories with this area. We learned so much from our guide, Marco. He was very kind and took the time to really explain to my son the history and about archeology. If ruins and temples are not your thing, then skip. However, if you are interested in seeing and learning about history from over 2400 years ago, this is your place. I’m glad we made the stop here and we also enjoyed a one night stay in the town.

Great visit and don't miss the opportunity to visit the hypogea (Underground Chamber) if you can find a spot. The tour with the kids was amazing !

Worth a detour to see all the varieties of fruit trees grown and sample some as you wander around. The temple of Vulcan was probably not worth the walk over. We also tasted a variety of marmalades they make - delicious. Also try the nut sweets.

This is a great example of how plants were grown and used centuries ago! Expect to see plenty of citrus and olives!!