Temple of Aphrodite, Knidos, Ancient Greek temple ruins in Datça, Turkey.
Description
The Temple of Aphrodite at Knidos is an ancient temple ruin on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, where a celebrated marble statue once stood. The foundations and scattered Doric columns remain visible today, marking the circular layout of this important shrine.
History
The temple was built around the 4th century BCE and housed a statue by Praxiteles, one of antiquity's most celebrated sculptors. Excavations in the 1970s uncovered marble fragments that confirmed the site's former importance.
Culture
The temple drew pilgrims from across the ancient world who came to worship and view the famous statue. This drew travelers over long distances, making the site one of the most sought-after religious destinations of its time.
Practical
The site is reached via marked pathways that offer good views of the ruins and sea from above. Informational signs along the way explain the architectural features and help visitors understand the temple's original layout.
Did you know?
The statue of the goddess stood in the center of the temple rather than against a wall, allowing visitors to view it from all sides. This unusual arrangement made the artwork visible from every angle.
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