Thought to have been built by a Elymian-Sicilian architect who was influenced by Greek colleagues, this Doric temple at Segesta was constructed between 430 and 420 BC. Scholars believe that it never had a roof put on its 36 limestone columns–perhaps the reason why it is so well-preserved. Very little is understood about for what…
Tag: dorico
Reclaimed is Ancient History in Siracusa
This is one of the more fascinating sites in Sicily: The Duomo of Siracusa. Look carefully–it’s not a mistake. You can see the ancient Doric-style columns of an ancient Temple of Athena, built in the 5th century BC. During the Byzantine age (in the 7th century), the temple’s structure was adopted and used as the…
Segesta: Enchanting Sicily, Day 2
The temple at Segesta has 36 very large, limestone Doric-style columns. Just like in 19th century paintings of Italy you’ve seen in your aunt’s living room, this temple gracefully sits in the midst of rolling hills. You might even see a shepherd and his sheep in its shadow! The temple is in excellent condition, considering…
Temple of Hera, Goddess of Marriage
The Temple of Hera (which in the Roman era was known as the Temple of Juno) is a 5th century BC temple dedicated to the Greek goddess of marriage, childbirth, and families. One of the many magnificent ruins at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Valley of the Temples, the Temple of Hera possesses an altar…
Temple of an Unknown Deity
Thought to have been built by a Elymian-Sicilian who was influenced by Greek architects, this Doric temple at Segesta was constructed between 430 and 420 BC. Scholars believe that it never had a roof put on its 36 limestone columns–perhaps the reason why it is so well-preserved. Very little is understood about for what the…
A Powerful Impression
At the Temple of Heracles in Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, you’ll find eight reconstructed Doric-style columns from the massive 6th century BC structure. Like the Greek god for which it’s named, the sacred edifice leaves a powerful impression.
A Temple for Hera
The Doric-style Temple “E” at the ancient Greek site of Selinunte was completed between 490 and 480 BC. Recent research reveals that it was probably dedicated to the goddess Hera, the protectress of weddings, engaged couples, and pregnant women.
Selinunte’s Temple C by the Sea
Temple “C,” or the Temple of Apollo, at the ancient Greek colony of Selinunte was built between 560 and 540 B.C. The majestic and massive temple faces the sea off of the southern coast of Sicily. The tympanum, or triangular facade, of the temple once sported a large portrait of the Gorgon Medusa (remains of…
Framing Selinunte
Flowers are everywhere in Sicily. These at Selinunte framed a view of the remains of one of the massive ancient Greek temples.
Selinunte’s Massive Columns
The ancient columns of Temple A (480-470 BC) at Selinunte are massive. Do you see the photographer?