Temple of the Gadde

The Temple of the Gadde is an ancient ruin in Dura-Europos with two separate courtyards and several ceremonial rooms. The structure measures about 42 meters north-south and 22 meters east-west and shows a carefully planned layout.

The ruin dates to the 2nd century CE and was uncovered between 1934 and 1936 through French and American excavations by Yale University. These digs brought limestone reliefs and other artifacts to light that confirmed the age and importance of the sanctuary.

The temple was a place for worshipping the Gadde deities and shows strong connections to Palmyrene religious traditions. The inscriptions and objects found here tell of the religious practices and beliefs of the ancient community that used this site.

The building uses local materials such as mudbrick, plaster, and stone and shows ancient construction techniques from the Roman period. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and partially uncovered foundations, as the ruin is still undergoing conservation work.

Excavators discovered a foundation deposit containing 21 amulets buried beneath the sanctuary. These finds hint at specific religious rituals practiced at this site and show how carefully the builders consecrated the sacred space.

Location: Al-Salihiyah, Deir ez-Zor Governorate

Made from material: mudbrick, plaster, stone

Part of: Dura-Europos, Block H1, Dura-Europos

GPS coordinates: 34.74740,40.73081

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:24