Introduction to Temple of Artemis
The Greek temple dedicated to an ancient, regional form of the goddess Artemis (associated with the Roman goddess Diana) was known as the Temple of Artemis or Artemision (Greek: Ἀρτεμίσιοv; Turkish: Artemis Tapınağı). It was located at Ephesus, which is close to the town of Selçuk in modern-day Turkey. It is believed to have been ruined or destroyed by AD 401. The site presently only has the foundations and remnants of the last temple.
The earliest form of the temple (a Bronze Age temenos) preceded the Ionic immigration by decades. Callimachus, however, in his Hymn to Artemis, credited it to the Amazons. It was ruined by flood in the 7th century BC.
Its reconstruction in more majestic form started about 550 BC, through the efforts of Chersiphron, the Cretan architect, and his son Metagenes. The temple was sponsored by Croesus of Lydia, and was completed in 10 years. This second version of the temple was burned down by an arsonist, generally believed to have been a madman called Herostratus, in 356 BC.
Antipater of Sidon’s list of the Seven Wonders of the World describes the temple’s next, greatest, and final form, which was financed by the Ephesians themselves:
When I saw the house of Artemis that rose to the clouds, the other wonders lost their brilliance, and I exclaimed, “Lo, apart from Olympus, the Sun never looked on aught so grand.” I had seen the wall of lofty Babylon with its chariot road, the statue of Zeus by the Alpheus, the hanging gardens, the colossus of the Sun, the enormous labor of the high pyramids, and the enormous tomb of Mausolus.
Place and background
About 75 kilometers (47 miles) south of the present-day Turkish coastal city of İzmir, the Temple of Artemis (Artemisia) stood close to the ancient city of Ephesus. The location is now on the outskirts of the contemporary town of Selçuk.
The sacred area (temenos) at Ephesus was much older than the Artemision itself. Pausanias was sure that it predated the Ionic immigration by several years, being even older than the oracular temple of Apollo at Didyma. He stated that the city was inhabited before the Ionic immigration by Leleges and Lydians. Callimachus, in his Hymn to Artemis, credited the first temenos at Ephesus to the Amazons, mythical warrior-maidens whose cult he pictured already focused upon an image (bretas) of Artemis, their patron goddess. Pausanias thought the temple existed before the Amazons.
It seems that Pausanias was right in approximating the age of the site. David George Hogarth’s excavations at the site prior to World War I seemed to identify three successive temple structures. With a sequence of pottery discoveries dating to Middle Geometric times, when a peripteral temple with a hard-packed clay floor was constructed during the second half of the eighth century BC, re-excavations in 1987–1988 and a re-assessment of Hogarth’s report confirmed that the site was occupied as early as the Bronze Age. Maybe the earliest Greek temple to have colonnades surrounding it, the peripteral temple at Ephesus is the first peripteral type on the Asia Minor coast.
In the 7th century BC, a flood damaged the temple, covering more than half a meter of sand and flotsam on the original clay floor. The debris of the flood included remains of a carved ivory plaque of a griffin and of the Tree of Life, seemingly North Syrian, and a few drilled tear-shaped drops of amber cross-section elliptical.
These most likely once clothed a wooden image (xoanon) of the Lady of Ephesus, which was either destroyed or salvaged from the flood. Bammer adds that although the site was susceptible to flooding, and elevated by silt deposits some two metres between the 8th and 6th centuries, and another 2.4 m between the sixth and the fourth, its persistence in use ‘suggests that preserving the identity of the true location was a significant factor in the sacred organization.’
Phase two
The new temple was funded at least in part by Croesus, founder of Lydia’s empire and overlord of Ephesus. It was planned and built from circa 550 BC by the Cretan architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes. It was 115 m (377 ft) long and 46 m (151 ft) wide, allegedly the first Greek temple made of marble.
Its peripteral columns were approximately 13 m (40 ft) tall, in double rows that created a broad ceremonial walkway surrounding the cella containing the cult image of the goddess. Thirty-six of them were, as stated by Pliny the Elder, adorned by relief carvings. A new black ebony or blackened grapewood cult statue was carved by Endoios, and a naiskos to contain it was built east of the open-air altar.
Deposit for the foundation
The ‘Artemision deposit’, a rich foundation deposit from this period, produced over a thousand artifacts, including what could be the first coins struck from the silver-gold alloy electrum. Some of the oldest inscribed coins in the deposit are Phanes coins from Ephesus, which date from 625 to 600 BC. They have the legend ΦΑΕΝOΣ ΕΜΙ ΣΗΜΑ (or something similar) (‘I am the badge of Phanes’) or just the name ΦΑΝΕΟΣ (‘of Phanes’).
The enriched columns of the later temple, of which a few exist (illustration below), were copies of this older feature, as evidenced by fragments of bas-relief on the lowest drums of the temple columns that are kept in the British Museum. According to Pliny the Elder, who appears to have been ignorant of the sacred site’s long history, the builders of the new temple decided to build it on marshy terrain as an earthquake safety measure, using pounded charcoal and fleeces for the bottom foundation levels.
The temple became a significant destination, frequented by merchants, kings, and tourists, many of whom offered tribute to Artemis in the form of jewelry and other goods. It also provided refuge to those escaping persecution or punishment, a tradition associated in myth with the Amazons who twice fled there to seek the protection of the goddess from punishment, first by Dionysus and then, by Heracles. Diogenes Laertius asserts that misanthropic philosopher Heraclitus, in profound disapproval of life in towns at Ephesus, played at knucklebones in the temple with the youths, and finally left his books there.
Devastation
In 356 BC, the temple was burned. Different sources report this as a vainglorious act of arson by a man named Herostratus, who had set fire to the wooden roof-beams in order to become famous at all costs; hence the term herostratic fame. For the sacrilege, the Ephesians condemned the offender to death and prohibited anyone from speaking his name, although Theopompus later did so.
Aristotle reports the conflagration of the temple but not its origin. In Greek and Roman historical convention, the temple was destroyed when Alexander the Great was born (circa 20–21 July 356 BC). According to Plutarch, Artemis was so busy attending the birth of Alexander that she couldn’t rescue her burning temple; he doesn’t attribute a reason for the blaze
Herostratus’ role in the burning of the temple has been disputed in recent scholarship. Stefan Karweise points out that any firebug would have had to have access to the wooden roof frame. Knibbe (1998) speaks of an ‘entire corps’ of confirmed temple guards and custodians. The fire may even have been intentionally and secretly started by the administrators of the temple, who knew that the foundation of the temple was subsiding but were not able to re-site it elsewhere due to religious considerations.
Bammer has pointed to the preservation of the original sacred site through successive reconstructions, even though there remained ongoing issues of flooding and foundations. Karwiese asks the motive of Herostratus because he would only reveal his intention under torture, which doesn’t suit a man who desired fame. Knibbe (1998) views Herostratus as a ‘useful idiot in the service of the priesthood.’
Phase Three
Alexander offered to pay for the temple’s rebuilding; the Ephesians tactfully refused, saying ‘it would be improper for one god to build a temple to another,’ and eventually rebuilt it after his death, at their own expense. Work started in 323 BC and continued for many years. The third temple was larger than the second; 137 m (450 ft) long by 69 m (225 ft) wide and 18 m (60 ft) high, with more than 127 columns. Athenagoras of Athens names Endoeus, a pupil of Daedalus, as sculptor of Artemis’ main cult image.
Pausanias (c. 2nd century AD) mentions a further image and altar in the temple, that of Artemis Protothronia (Artemis ‘of the first seat’) and a gallery of images over this altar, such as an ancient representation of Nyx (the primordial goddess of Night) by the sculptor Rhoecus (6th century BC). Pliny mentions images of Amazons, the mythological founders of Ephesus and Ephesian Artemis’ earliest protégés, carved by Scopas. Literary sources depict the temple’s decoration with paintings, columns covered with gold and silver, and religious pieces of famous Greek sculptors Polyclitus, Pheidias, Cresilas, and Phradmon.
Sure! Here are 10 mysteries related to the Temple of Artemis, each followed by a detailed explanation in 6 to 10 paragraphs.
1. What Happened to the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus?
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was a grand structure originally built around 550 BCE in what is now Turkey. Over the centuries, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Its first destruction was caused by a fire in 356 BCE, reportedly started by a man named Herostratus, who wanted to achieve fame by committing such an infamous act.
Despite the fire, the temple was rebuilt more magnificently, only to be destroyed again by the Goths in 262 CE. After that, the temple was never fully restored. The reasons for its final collapse remain a mystery, as the remaining ruins show that it was once a monumental structure with intricate carvings and grand columns. Some believe that it was the combination of natural disasters, religious transformations, and a general decline in the city’s power that led to its downfall.
What is known is that after the Goths sacked the temple, the remaining pieces were gradually scavenged for building materials. The location itself fell into relative obscurity, and the temple was lost for centuries, until the discovery of its ruins in the 19th century.
2. What Was the Role of the Temple of Artemis in Ancient Ephesus?
The Temple of Artemis was not only a religious center but also a major political and cultural symbol for the city of Ephesus. It was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and fertility. However, the role of the temple went beyond worship; it was also a center of commerce and social life.
The temple housed many sacred objects and treasures, and it served as a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from the law, as it was considered a safe haven where criminals could be granted immunity. The influence of Artemis was seen as protecting the city’s wealth, power, and prosperity. The temple also attracted visitors and pilgrims from far and wide, contributing to the local economy.
The relationship between the religious and the political powers in Ephesus was tightly interwoven, and the temple was used to solidify the city’s identity. It represented both a connection to divine forces and a powerful civic pride.
3. Was the Temple of Artemis Originally Built in a Different Location?
Before the famous Temple of Artemis was built in Ephesus, there were other earlier structures dedicated to the goddess in different locations. It’s believed that Artemis was originally worshipped in several places, and the location of her earliest temple is still debated.
The first known temple of Artemis was constructed around the 8th century BCE, but it was destroyed by a flood. A second temple was built on the same site, but it was burned down around 356 BCE by Herostratus.
What’s intriguing is the possibility that the Temple of Artemis might have been built in other locations before it found its final home in Ephesus. Some scholars argue that the goddess’s worship may have started in Asia Minor, then spread to the Greeks and other regions. The final site in Ephesus was ideal due to its strategic position along trade routes and its large, wealthy population.
4. How Did the Temple of Artemis Influence the Architecture of the Ancient World?
The Temple of Artemis was considered one of the most extraordinary examples of Greek architecture. Its design inspired later temples and was a significant advancement in the art of building monumental structures. With its grand size and intricate sculptural decoration, the temple set new standards in the classical world.
The use of large marble columns, which stood at a height of over 18 meters (60 feet), was revolutionary. These columns were designed in the Ionic style, one of the three classical orders of ancient Greek architecture. The temple’s proportions and symmetry were also innovative, establishing a sense of harmony and balance that influenced the design of later temples, including those of the Parthenon in Athens.
Its most famous feature was the sculptural reliefs that adorned the temple’s walls. The frieze depicted scenes of mythological battles and deities, setting the tone for future artistic representations of gods and goddesses.
5. Why Was the Temple of Artemis Considered One of the Seven Wonders?
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World due to its grand size, intricate artistry, and historical significance. Standing at approximately 120 meters (394 feet) long and 60 meters (197 feet) wide, it was a monumental building, surpassing many of the other wonders in terms of sheer scale.
The architectural and artistic quality of the temple was extraordinary, with each of its 127 columns standing 18 meters (60 feet) tall, many of which were finely sculpted. The temple’s sculptural reliefs, particularly those on the frieze, were notable for their depiction of gods, mythical creatures, and everyday life, showing both creativity and technical skill.
Moreover, the temple was an important cultural hub, not only for religious worship but also for political and economic activity. Pilgrims from across the ancient world visited the site, contributing to its global significance. The size, grandeur, and importance of the Temple of Artemis were so overwhelming that it became one of the key wonders of the ancient world.
6. Who Were the Priests and Priestesses of the Temple of Artemis?
The priestesses and priests of the Temple of Artemis were an integral part of the religious ceremonies held at the temple. Most notable among them were the high priestesses, who played a crucial role in the worship of Artemis. In ancient times, the priestesses of Artemis were highly revered, holding significant power and influence in society.
The high priestess, sometimes known as the “Artemisian,” was usually selected from a prominent family and often served for life. She was responsible for performing the most sacred rituals, which included leading the worship ceremonies, tending to the sacred fire, and making offerings to the goddess. The priestess also served as the goddess’s representative on earth and played a central role in ensuring the temple’s prosperity.
Priests of the temple, while not as powerful as the priestesses, performed various duties such as overseeing sacrifices and maintaining the temple’s records. The role of the priestess of Artemis at Ephesus was one of immense prestige, with some priestesses achieving almost royal status.
7. What Are the Mystery and Significance of the Temple’s Sacred Fire?
The sacred fire at the Temple of Artemis held great religious significance. It was believed to be a manifestation of the goddess’s divine presence, and the priests and priestesses were responsible for keeping it burning at all times. The fire was not just a symbol of Artemis, but a vital part of the worship rituals that took place at the temple.
The mystery surrounding the sacred fire lies in its maintenance and the rituals associated with it. For example, it was believed that the fire needed to be fed with special herbs and oils to ensure its purity. Some ancient texts also suggest that only specific individuals could tend to the fire, further elevating its sacred status. The fire, therefore, was not only a symbol of Artemis’s power but also a physical manifestation of her protection over the city.
The importance of the sacred fire extended beyond the religious realm. It was said to have had a purifying effect on the people, and its flame was used in many ceremonies, including those for fertility, harvest, and protection from enemies.
8. Was There a Secret Cult Associated with the Temple of Artemis?
The Temple of Artemis is believed to have been the site of various secret rituals and cults dedicated to the goddess. Some scholars suggest that there were underground practices associated with the temple that were not meant for the public eye. These included initiation ceremonies and rites of passage that were intended for a select group of worshippers.
One of the most intriguing aspects of these secret cults is the connection between Artemis and fertility. Some texts suggest that her followers engaged in sacred acts related to fertility, involving the offering of gifts or engaging in sexual rituals as part of a symbolic union with the goddess.
Moreover, the Temple of Artemis was said to have a strong connection to the mystical aspects of the cult, where the goddess was seen not just as a protector but also as a powerful, almost otherworldly force. The nature of these cults remains a mystery, as they were shrouded in secrecy, and much of the information about them was passed down through vague references and rumors.
9. How Was the Temple of Artemis Related to the Economic Prosperity of Ephesus?
The Temple of Artemis played a pivotal role in the economic prosperity of Ephesus. As one of the largest and most well-known temples in the ancient world, it attracted a steady stream of pilgrims and tourists from across the Mediterranean. This influx of people provided a significant boost to the local economy.
In addition to religious offerings and donations, the temple was also a center of commerce. Merchants set up stalls around the temple, selling goods ranging from religious artifacts to everyday items. The temple’s wealth, accumulated from donations and the sale of these goods, helped fund civic projects and public works within Ephesus.
Moreover, the temple’s status as a safe haven for criminals and debtors made it an important social institution. People who had fallen on hard times could seek refuge at the temple, where they were protected from harm. This made the temple a focal point not just for religious and economic activity, but also for social stability in the region.
10. What Was the Role of the Temple of Artemis in the Decline of Ephesus?
The decline of Ephesus is often tied to the eventual downfall of the Temple of Artemis. As the city began to lose its political and economic power, the temple, once the center of religious and civic life, became less influential. The decline began as early as the 2nd century CE, but the temple’s final destruction by the Goths in 262 CE marked a key turning point.
Some historians argue that the destruction of the temple symbolized the end of Ephesus’s glory days. The temple’s immense wealth and status had made it a target for invaders, and once it was destroyed, the city’s power continued to wane. The eventual abandonment of the site and its decline into ruins is seen as a reflection of the broader shifts in the ancient world, including the rise of Christianity and the diminishing power of pagan worship.
The mystery of the temple’s final collapse lies in the fact that it was once an unparalleled symbol of wealth, power, and devotion. However, over time, it became a relic of a bygone era, its significance fading as the world around it changed.
1. The Temple of Artemis Was One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus is famously one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built around 550 BCE in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey), it was recognized for its incredible size and architectural beauty. Its inclusion in the list of wonders was due to its grandeur, and it was considered by many to be the most beautiful of the wonders.
The temple’s construction was commissioned by the Lydian King Croesus, one of the wealthiest rulers of the ancient world, and designed by the famous Greek architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes. It stood on a raised platform and was surrounded by 127 ionic columns, each standing at an imposing height of 60 feet (18 meters). The temple was not just a religious center but also a symbol of Ephesus’s prosperity and grandeur.
Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed multiple times by natural disasters and invasions, but its legacy as one of the Seven Wonders continues to intrigue historians and archaeologists today. The remains of its grandeur, including some columns and fragments of the decorative sculptures, are still visible, allowing us to glimpse what was once a monumental structure.
2. The Temple Was Dedicated to the Goddess Artemis
The Temple of Artemis was dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, known as the goddess of hunting, wild animals, fertility, and childbirth. Artemis was a central figure in Greek mythology and was revered across the ancient world. Her worship was particularly prominent in Ephesus, where the temple became one of her most significant sanctuaries.
Artemis was seen as a protector of the city, ensuring its prosperity and safety, and the temple served as a focal point for her worship. Pilgrims from all over the ancient world visited the site to offer prayers, sacrifices, and gifts to the goddess, hoping to receive her blessings in return. The massive structure of the temple reflected the city’s devotion to Artemis and its desire to honor her with a place that matched her power and influence.
In the temple, rituals were held regularly, including animal sacrifices, and it was common for people to leave votive offerings such as statues, jewelry, and coins. The temple’s immense wealth allowed it to become not only a religious center but also a hub for political and economic activity, with wealthy benefactors continually donating to its upkeep.
3. It Was Rebuilt After Being Burned Down by Herostratus
One of the most dramatic events in the history of the Temple of Artemis occurred in 356 BCE when the temple was destroyed by fire. The fire was allegedly started by a man named Herostratus, who sought to gain notoriety by committing such an audacious act. He believed that burning down one of the most famous temples in the world would guarantee his name would be remembered throughout history, which, ironically, it was.
The destruction of the temple caused an outcry in the ancient world, but also led to a massive reconstruction effort. The rebuilt temple was even more grand than the original, featuring larger columns and more intricate sculptures. This new temple was funded by the wealth of the Lydian King Croesus, who had a longstanding relationship with the city of Ephesus. The reconstructed temple stood as a testament to the city’s resilience and its devotion to Artemis, remaining in operation for several centuries after.
Despite its eventual destruction, the rebuilding of the Temple of Artemis was an important cultural moment for Ephesus and the ancient world, showcasing the dedication of both the city and its rulers to maintaining the legacy of their gods.
4. The Temple Was Twice the Size of the Parthenon
At the height of its glory, the Temple of Artemis was an architectural marvel, considered twice as large as the Parthenon in Athens. The Parthenon, one of the most famous temples of ancient Greece, measured approximately 69.5 by 30.9 meters (228 by 101 feet), while the Temple of Artemis was even more impressive at 115 by 55 meters (377 by 180 feet).
The temple’s sheer scale made it stand out among other monumental buildings of the time. Its size and intricate design, with 127 towering columns, were awe-inspiring, and it dominated the landscape of Ephesus. The immense scale was not just for aesthetic purposes but also symbolized the wealth and importance of the city, its goddess, and the religious and political significance of the temple in ancient Greek culture.
As a monumental structure, the temple was a major landmark that could be seen from a great distance, symbolizing Artemis’s protective role over the city. Its design was based on the Ionic order, with a series of harmonious proportions and delicate relief sculptures that enhanced its visual impact.
5. The Temple Was a Major Economic Hub
Beyond its religious significance, the Temple of Artemis also played a key role in the economic life of Ephesus. The temple was not only a place of worship but also a bustling center for commerce. Merchants would set up shops around the temple, selling everything from religious artifacts to everyday goods. The city’s location along important trade routes meant that the temple attracted a constant flow of visitors and pilgrims, contributing to the prosperity of Ephesus.
Donations made to the temple, often in the form of precious metals, artwork, and other valuables, helped fund civic projects throughout the city. The wealth generated by the temple was vital in maintaining Ephesus’s status as one of the most prosperous cities in the ancient Mediterranean world.
The temple’s economic influence extended beyond local trade. It became a symbol of Ephesus’s power, attracting travelers from distant lands who sought not only spiritual solace but also commercial opportunities. The wealth accumulated by the temple enabled it to remain one of the richest and most influential religious institutions of the ancient world.
6. It Was Also a Safe Haven for Criminals
The Temple of Artemis had an unusual and significant function in ancient society—it served as a sanctuary or safe haven for those seeking refuge from the law. According to ancient laws, individuals who took sanctuary in the temple were granted immunity from prosecution. This concept of the temple as a place of refuge was a common practice in the ancient world, with many temples offering protection to those in need.
The practice was rooted in the belief that sacred spaces were inviolable, and anyone who entered them was under the protection of the gods. Criminals or people in debt who sought refuge at the Temple of Artemis were often allowed to stay there without fear of being arrested or harmed.
This aspect of the temple’s function further emphasizes the central role the institution played in the civic and social life of Ephesus. It was not only a center of worship but also a place where people could escape the harshness of the legal system or avoid personal vendettas.
7. The Temple Was Known for Its Sculptural Decoration
The Temple of Artemis was decorated with stunning sculptural reliefs, many of which depicted mythological scenes involving Artemis, her followers, and other deities. These sculptures were a hallmark of the temple’s artistic achievements, and they were created by some of the finest sculptors of the time.
One of the most famous elements of the temple’s decoration was the frieze that ran around the structure, depicting various scenes from Greek mythology. Artemis, often depicted with her bow and quiver, appeared prominently in these scenes, symbolizing her strength and protection. The temple’s sculptures were designed not only to beautify the space but also to convey important mythological and religious themes.
The decoration of the temple was one of the reasons why it became renowned throughout the ancient world, and many of its pieces were eventually housed in museums, allowing modern scholars to study the artistry that contributed to its fame.
8. The Temple Was Destroyed by the Goths in 262 CE
Despite its rebuilding and the wealth it amassed over the centuries, the Temple of Artemis ultimately fell into ruin. The final destruction occurred in 262 CE when the temple was sacked by the Goths, a group of barbarian tribes from the north. The Goths were notorious for their raids on the Roman Empire, and Ephesus, with its wealth and prominence, became a target.
The Goths destroyed much of the temple, looting its treasures and leaving behind only fragments of the once-great structure. After this attack, the temple was never fully rebuilt, and it slowly fell into obscurity. The site eventually became a source of historical curiosity, and excavations in the 19th century uncovered some of its remnants.
Today, all that remains of the once-majestic Temple of Artemis are a few columns and scattered artifacts, but the impact of its destruction marked the end of an era for both the temple and the city of Ephesus itself.
9. Its Remains Were Discovered in the 19th Century
The remains of the Temple of Artemis were lost to history for centuries. After its destruction in 262 CE and the subsequent decay of the city of Ephesus, the temple’s location became a matter of speculation. It wasn’t until the 19th century that archaeologists began to unearth the ruins of the temple.
Excavations began in 1869 when British archaeologists started digging in the area near the modern-day town of Selçuk in Turkey. They uncovered fragments of the columns, sculptures, and other remnants of the temple. Although most of the temple had been destroyed over the years, these discoveries helped historians and archaeologists piece together the scale and grandeur of the structure.
Today, parts of the temple’s frieze and several of its columns can be found in various museums, including the British Museum in London, allowing people around the world to learn about one of the most extraordinary religious buildings of the ancient world.
10. The Temple Was a Major Religious Center for the Ancient World
In its prime, the Temple of Artemis was not just a local shrine but a major religious center in the ancient Mediterranean. Pilgrims from all corners of the Greek and Roman worlds came to Ephesus to worship Artemis, bringing offerings and seeking the goddess’s favor. It was a hub of religious activity, with festivals and ceremonies taking place regularly.
The influence of the temple extended beyond religious rituals. The city of Ephesus itself became known as a place of cultural significance, and the temple attracted philosophers, artists, and scholars. It was an important symbol of the power of religion and the interconnectedness of worship, politics, and society in the ancient world.
