The Temple of Artemis, also known as the Artemesium, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a magnificent temple located in the city of Ephesus, present-day Selçuk in Turkey. Students can learn a lot about Ancient Greece and the history of the world by studying and understanding facts about this impressive structure.
The construction of the temple began in the 6th century BCE, and it was built to honor the Greek goddess Artemis, who was the goddess of the hunt, childbirth, and fertility. The temple was funded by the Lydian king Croesus and it took over a century to complete the construction.
The Temple of Artemis was a massive structure and was considered one of the most significant sanctuaries of its time. It was 425 feet long and 225 feet wide. The temple had 127 columns, each of which were 60 feet high, with sculptural artwork on the top. The columns were made of marble, and the temple itself was constructed with marble as well.
The temple was constructed on a marshy area, so the builders had to sink wooden containers to make the foundation firm. The walls were made with mud and brick and were later covered with marble to make them more impressive.
One of the standout features of the temple was its statue of Artemis, which was created by the Greek sculptor Endoios. The statue was about nine feet tall. The goddess was depicted as a multi-breasted figure, with several breasts representing near-endless fertility.
The temple was more than a religious structure. The wealth and influence of the Artemesium made it an important center of trade and commerce in the region. The temple priests served as bankers and money-changers. Also, many merchants used the temple as a kind of marketplace.
Unfortunately, the Temple of Artemis was also caught in fire several times: in 356 BCE, 268 BCE, and sometime in the 3rd century CE. The temple was eventually rebuilt after the fires, but it was not the same as the original.
Today, the Temple of Artemis ruins are a leading tourist attraction in the city of Selcuk, Turkey. For students that are interested in learning more about ancient cultures and history, studying this landmark can provide insights into the architecture, mythology, and commerce of ancient times.
