Sanctuary of Zeus in Nemea: Patron god of shepherds and animal husbandry

It constitutes the earliest evidence for human presence in the area of the sanctuary, which dates from the beginning of the 6th century BC. 

The most important building in the sanctuary is the temple of Nemean Zeus, patron god of shepherds and animal husbandry, who is probably not identified with Zeus of Olympus. The temple – one of the first structures to combine the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian orders – was erected in 330 BC and was surrounded by buildings and monuments associated with the cult rituals and sporting events of the Nemean Games. The latter were held in rotation with the sacred Panhellenic games of Olympia, Delphi, and Isthmia.

The only part of the temple of Nemean Zeus to survive are three Doric columns, plus another two columns restored by American professor Stephen G. Miller, who dedicated his career to the excavation of Nemea and the enhancement of the archaeological site.