Visit
Stephanion Observatory
Public Opening Hours
Weekday (Tuesday – Friday) Hours
Weekday visits are available by appointment only and are limited to schools and large groups.
Weekend (Saturday – Sunday) Hours
Open 11:00 a.m. – 02:00 p.m.
Closed Monday
Visit
Take the road to the Stars!
Located on top of Dragatoura Hill at an altitude of 800 m, just outside the village of Stephanion on the current border between Corinthia and Argolis, Stephanion Observatory is easily accessible by car from Corinth, Tripoli, and the Argolis region.
The journey from Athens or Patras typically takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
While most of the route is on well-maintained highways and national roads, the final approach passes through mountainous local roads with some curves and inclines.
Drivers are advised to proceed with care, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
Plan your Visit
Tours
Since its foundation in 1966, a large number of instruments have been hosted at the Stephanion Observatory.
Schools
The history of the Observatory starts in 1964 when a group of Dutch astronomers visited Greece, in order to examine the possibility of installing a small reflector telescope…
Groups
In 2020 the Observatory was closed for a comprehensive renovation in order to enhance the Observatory’s ability to pursue its public astronomy mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Accessibility
We aim to make visits to our facility enjoyable for everyone. Please note that access to the research telescopes requires climbing a short flight of steps.
For visitors who are unable to use the main telescope, smaller outdoor telescopes are available and offer excellent observing opportunities.
If you or members of your group have specific accessibility requirements or concerns, please let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
For further questions, please contact us by email at
What to bring
For the protection of our facilities, food and drinks are not permitted inside the observatory buildings. Visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch and/or snacks, and may use the available picnic facilities.
We recommend warm clothing, as temperatures can be low both outdoors and inside the observatory.
Is smoking allowed at Stephanion Observatory?
Smoking of any kind, including electronic cigarettes, is strictly prohibited at Stephanion Observatory. This includes all observatory buildings, surrounding grounds, and parking areas.
Due to the high risk of fire, this policy is strictly enforced.
Are animals allowed inside the building?
No. The Observatory does not permit animals inside the building. The only exceptions are service animals. Service animals are those who have been individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.
May I bring my bike/skates/skateboard/scooter or any other wheeled toy device?
No. Such items are not permitted in the building or on Observatory grounds.
Parking
On-street parking is available on the road leading to the observatory.
Buses may drop off visitors at the main gate of the observatory. Turning space is available at the Chapel of Agios Georgios, approximately 500 metres west of the observatory.