Temple of Aphrodite Urania, Ancient Greek temple ruins in Ancient Agora, Greece
The Temple of Aphrodite Urania sits northwest of the Ancient Agora and displays remnants of marble construction from classical Greek times. The ruins reveal foundations and architectural fragments that show the original scale and design of this religious building.
The temple was built in early classical times and gradually became buried under accumulating deposits as the city developed. Excavations in the 1980s uncovered its original marble altar, revealing evidence of centuries of layered earth above the site.
The temple served as a place of worship for the celestial Aphrodite, where visitors brought doves as offerings to honor her divine role. These practices reflected how ancient Athenians connected with their goddess through ritual gesture.
The site is accessible through the Ancient Agora entrance and sits near railway tracks and the Temple of Hephaestus. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes for uneven ground and prepare for sun exposure while exploring the remains.
Tens of thousands of bone fragments from ritual animal sacrifices were discovered at this location, providing insight into ancient worship practices. These archaeological findings reveal the scale and regularity of religious ceremonies performed at this sacred site.
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