The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus
The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus Turkey, aka Temple of Diana, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a magnificent and impressive structure, dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, fertility.
The temple was located in Ephesus, an ancient city in the region of Ionia, which is now modern-day Turkey. It was built in the 6th century BCE by Croesus, the King of Lydia. The construction of the temple took over 120 years, and it reached a final in 550 BCE.
The temple was an enormous structure, measuring 425 feet long, 220 feet wide, and 60 feet high. It was made entirely of marble, with 127 columns that stood 60 feet tall, each with a diameter of 6 feet. The columns had with intricate carvings, including depictions of mythological creatures such as lions, bulls, and griffins.
The interior of the temple was just as impressive as the exterior. It housed numerous works of art, including a statue of Artemis that was 40 feet tall and made of ebony, gold, and silver. The statue was full with precious stones and depicted Artemis with multiple breasts, symbolizing her fertility.
The temple was not only a religious site but also a cultural and economic center. It was a place of pilgrimage for people from all over the ancient world, who came to worship Artemis and make offerings to her. The temple also served as a hub for trade, with merchants selling goods and exchanging currency.
The End of the Temple of Artemis
Sadly, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The first destruction occurred in 356 BCE when a man named Herostratus set fire to the temple, in an attempt to gain fame. They rebuilt the temple later, but the Goths destroyed it again in 262 CE. The temple was never rebuilt again, and today, only a few columns remain standing during these days.
Despite its destruction, the Temple of Artemis remains a fascinating and impressive monument to ancient Greek architecture and culture. It has inspired countless works of art and literature throughout the centuries. It continues to captivate people’s imaginations to this day. You can see some relics uncovered from this site in Ephesus museum.
