In Greece, archaeologists excavated the temple of Artemis, where sacrifices were made. PHOTO
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Archaeologists have completely excavated the remains of the Temple of Artemis on the island of Euboea (Greece), which was built around 700 BC.
As reported by the Swiss School of Archeology in Greece, the building “opened up” many surprises to researchers: it had the shape of an apse (an architectural element covered by a half-dome), which is quite unusual for that time, and its dimensions were impressive – the length of the temple reached 34 meters. writes Arkeonews.
The sanctuary of Artemis of Amarintska – the goddess of hunting, wild animals and nature – is a special cult place dedicated to her worship. A surprising discovery for archaeologists was hearths or altars found inside the building, and not outside, as was typical of Greek sanctuaries. On these stone platforms, “fire consumed animal sacrifices offered to the goddess,” as evidenced by thick layers of ash rich in calcified bones, the researchers say. The smoke from the sacrifices probably escaped through openings in the roof of the building.
Next to the temple, during recent excavations, various artifacts were discovered: vases, weapons, and jewelry. An unusual discovery was the sculpture of the head of an Egyptian made of ivory.
| Altar of the temple |
The excavations also revealed remains of artifacts from earlier periods, including a possible building of the 9th or 8th century BC. e., bronze figurines of animals and a terracotta bull head of the Late Bronze Age.
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| The building had the shape of an apse |
Evidence suggests that the temple was later partially burned and then rebuilt, and in 500 BC an even larger building was built, archaeologists believe.
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| Ivory head. ALL PHOTOS: Swiss School of Archeology in Greece |
The temple was located at the foot of the hill. As a result of excavations, walls were discovered on its slopes, which were probably part of the fortification system.
Currently, archaeologists are studying their finds in laboratories.
Read also: A man with brown hair: scientists “restored” the face of a crucifixion victim of the Roman Empire
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