Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

Definition

The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis, located in the city of Ephesus (modern-day Turkey). It was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and served as a major center for worship and commerce, reflecting the religious devotion and cultural significance of the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Temple of Artemis was completed around 550 BCE and was designed by the architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes.
2. It was rebuilt multiple times due to destruction, with the most famous reconstruction occurring after its destruction by arson in 356 BCE, coinciding with the birth of Alexander the Great.
3. The temple featured 127 columns, each standing about 18 meters tall, showcasing the grandeur of Ionian architectural style.
4. It served not only as a religious site but also as a marketplace and a place for political meetings, highlighting its role in both spiritual and civic life.
5. The site was eventually abandoned after the rise of Christianity and later fell into ruin, with only foundations and remnants visible today.

Review Questions

• How did the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus reflect the cultural values of its time?
  • The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus reflected the cultural values of its time through its grandeur, architectural innovation, and dual role as a religious site and marketplace. Its construction demonstrated the community's devotion to Artemis, signifying the importance of religion in daily life. The temple also served as a civic center, indicating how intertwined spirituality and politics were in ancient Greek society.
• Discuss how architectural features of the Temple of Artemis exemplify developments in Late Archaic art and architecture.
  • Architectural features of the Temple of Artemis exemplify developments in Late Archaic art through their use of monumental scale, intricate design, and sculptural decoration. The use of 127 tall columns showcased not just engineering prowess but also an artistic approach that emphasized harmony and proportion typical of Late Archaic aesthetics. This reflected a shift towards more elaborate and decorative forms in architecture during this period.
• Evaluate the significance of the Temple of Artemis within the broader context of East Greek art and how it influenced later architectural styles.
  • The significance of the Temple of Artemis within East Greek art lies in its innovative architectural design and artistic elements that set standards for future structures. Its grand scale and stylistic features influenced subsequent Hellenistic architecture, as it integrated both functionality and ornate beauty. The temple's legacy can be seen in later buildings that sought to capture its grandeur while reflecting evolving artistic trends across cultures, impacting architectural practices throughout history.

Related terms

Artemis: Artemis is the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth, often associated with fertility and the moon.

Hellenistic Architecture: Hellenistic architecture refers to the style of architecture that emerged after the conquests of Alexander the Great, characterized by grandeur and elaborate designs.

Caryatid: A caryatid is a sculpted female figure that serves as a supporting column or pillar in classical architecture.