The reign of Hieron II in eastern Sicily (ca. 270–215 BC) was a period of great prosperity and wealth, which is well reflected in the contemporary built environment. Interpretation of architectural features of the Hieronian period has often entailed strong ideological notions. This paper challenges such notions, discussing one of the characteristics of “Hieronian architecture”, notably architectural supports in form of atlantes (Stützfiguren im Atlantenschema). Starting from the Hieronian examples in Syracuse and the monuments they have been attributed to, the form, function, context, and meaning of these sculptures are investigated and the dynamics of their distribution process throughout Sicily (and beyond) are reconstructed. It is argued that the study of a singular architectural element can contribute to a better understanding of the architecture of Hellenistic Sicily.