Recording-2025-03-20T17:19:05.808Z

Temple Structure and Purpose

• The temple served as a storage space for the cult image.

• It also had a back area called the "apostolomos" for additional storage.

• The layout changes from earlier temples, with columns moving from the center to the sides, which allows for a clear view of the cult image.

Architectural Developments during the 7th and 6th Centuries BCE

• Shift from wooden to stone columns.

• Transition from monolithic columns to the use of drums in column construction.

• New pulley systems developed, enabling the stacking of column drums for easier construction.

• Temples constructed mostly from stone, indicating a significant architectural evolution.

Column Evolution

• Early temples used wooden columns; later shifted to stone.

• Doric columns characterized by simpler forms with capitals, resting directly on the stylobate.

• Ionic columns are taller, slimmer, and feature more elaborate capitals (volutes).

• Ionic temples typically have an elaborate design with more columns than Doric temples.

Temple Decoration

• Introduction of friezes with metopes alternating with triglyphs in some temples.

• The temple of Artemis at Corcyra showcases advanced decorative styles, with carved motifs and intricate designs that became prominent in the classical period.

Ionic Temple Specifics

• The Ionic temple represents a significant architectural style from Asia Minor, especially from Samos, Aphasis, and Didyma.

• Example: The Temple of Hera at Samos (52.5 x 105 meters) constructed by architects Roikos and Theodorus, featuring a notable arrangement of columns.

• Layout includes a deep porch encircled by a double colonnade and numerous columns in comparison to Doric designs.

Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

• Considered among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; larger than the Temple of Hera.

• Characterized by an extensive triple row of columns and use of marble.

• Signified competition between cities and significant investment from wealthy patrons like Croesus, known for his legendary wealth.

Comparison of Doric and Ionic Styles

• Doric Style:

  • Shorter, sturdier, wider columns without decorative bases, often containing metopes and triglyphs.

• Ionic Style:

  • Taller, slender, elegant columns with decorated bases, no triglyphs, and often a continuous frieze.

  • Used more decorative elements and became popular in Eastern Greece and islands.

Panhellenic Sanctuaries

• Open to all Greeks, offering a communal religious space. Notable examples include Olympia and Delphi.

• Establish a common Greek identity, essential during periods of colonization when Greeks settled far from home.

The Oracle at Delphi

• Considered the most significant oracle in Greece, providing advice on various matters, including military endeavors.

• The priestess (Pythia) would convey messages believed to be from Apollo, serving as a medium between the god and the people.

• Control of the sanctuary evolved from local governance to a council of states, reflecting its importance.

Treasuries at Delphi

• Built by various city-states to showcase offerings and wealth, serving as evidence of political and religious competition.

• Constructed in various styles, including Doric and Ionic, reflecting the civic pride of individual poleis.