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Temple of Hephaestus

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The history...

The Temple of Hephaestus, also known as the Hephaisteion, is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples and is located in the Agora of Athens. This magnificent structure, dedicated to Hephaestus, the god of fire, metalworking, and craftsmanship, and Athena Ergane, the goddess of pottery and crafts, offers a glimpse into the architectural prowess and religious practices of classical Greece.

Construction of the temple began around 449 BCE, during the same period as the Parthenon, under the leadership of Pericles. The project was likely overseen by the architect Ictinus, who also contributed to the design of the Parthenon. The temple's construction was completed around 415 BCE. It was strategically placed on a hill, known as the Kolonos Agoraios, overlooking the Agora, the heart of Athenian public life.

The Temple of Hephaestus is a Doric peripteral temple, meaning it features a rectangular floor plan surrounded by a single row of Doric columns. There are six columns on the short sides and thirteen on the long sides. The structure is built predominantly from Pentelic marble, known for its pure white appearance and fine grain.

The temple's metopes and friezes have detailed sculptural reliefs showing scenes from Greek mythology. Notable among these are the labors of Heracles and the deeds of Theseus, reflecting the temple's dedication to craftsmanship and heroism. These artistic elements highlight the Athenians' admiration for Hephaestus and their cultural emphasis on artistry and skill.

During its long history, the Temple of Hephaestus has undergone some transformations. In the 7th century CE, it was converted into a Greek Orthodox church dedicated to Saint George, which contributed to its preservation. This use continued until the early 19th century.

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