The Temple of Artemis is also referred to as the Temple of Diana in some sources. Diana is known as the goddess of the moon and hunting in Roman mythology. Roman mythology has mythological beings corresponding to Greek mythology. Diana corresponds to Artemis in Greek mythology. Therefore, do not be surprised when you see Diana in any source.
Temple of Artemis history
The Temple of Artemis was built by the Lydian king Croesus (Krezus) for Artemis and took 120 years to build. It is thought that the construction of the temple was completed around 550 BC.
Built entirely of marble, the temple is considered one of the 7 Wonders of the World, along with the now-defunct Pyramid of Cheops, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Statue of Zeus, the Tomb of King Mausollos, the Colossus of Rhodes and the Lighthouse of Alexandria.
The temple is not standing today, very little of it can be seen. Most of the stones that were destroyed due to earthquakes, burning, looting, etc. were used in the construction of other structures, so it is very difficult to find them. Since the Temple of Artemis has a very important place, it was mentioned a lot in ancient times.
Based on this information, you can have information about the structure of the temple. According to the description of Antipader of Sidon, who compiled the 7 Wonders of the World, and the philosopher Philon (Philon), who also had a share in the list, Artemis was an eye-catcher with its size.
I have seen the wall of proud Babylon, with the road for chariots, and the statue of Zeus on Alpheus, and the hanging gardens, and the colossus of the Sun, and the colossal workmanship of the high pyramids, and the vast tomb of Mausolus.
But when I saw the house of Artemis built on the clouds, all other wonders lost their luster, and I said, “Behold! Outside Olympus, the Sun has never looked upon anything so great.” (Antipater, Greek Anthology [IX.58]) – Antipader
It consisted of 127 columns, each 18 meters high. With a length of 115 meters and a width of 55 meters, it is considered the largest of the Greek temples. The statue of Artemis, which survived the temple decorated with statues and is still in our country, can be seen in the Ephesus Museum.
Where is the Temple of Artemis and how to get there?
The Temple of Artemis, one of the most sacred places in its period, is located at a point between the ancient city of Ephesus and Ayusuluk Hill. Although it is included in the city of Ephesus, it is not included in the paid entrance area of Ephesus.
You can enter the temple borders free of charge without any entrance. Keep in mind that the Temple of Artemis no longer exists today. Go there knowing that you will not be able to see the drawings and 3D models on the internet during your visit, so you will not be disappointed.
Today, there is only the land of the temple and a column and a few column fragments left from the temple. There are many places to visit in Selçuk, where the Temple of Artemis is located. In order not to miss any point, you can check out our Selçuk Places to Visit page.
