Syracuse, Temple of Apollo (Building)
Temple; in the northern portion of the island of Ortygia.
- ID:
- aa_378
- Type:
- Building
- Date:
- ca. -565
- Period:
- Archaic
- Context:
- Syracuse
- Region:
- Sicily
- Architect:
- Epikles
- Dimensions:
-
ca. 21.57 x 55.33 m.
- Type:
- Temple
Date Description
Assumption of direct influence from Rhoikos Temple at Samos, dated ten years earlier.
Plan
6 x 17; double row of columns in front of cella; pronaos-distyle in antis; no interior columns(?); adyton; four stepped crepidoma; small staircase on the east end.
History
The Temple of Apollo is the earliest example of monumental stone architecture in Sicily. As identified by inscription, the temple was dedicated by Cleo[sthen]es, presumably a tyrant of Syracuse. The temple's early date is attested to by its massive proportions, narrowly spaced columns, and spreading column capitals. Possible influence from eastern Ionic temples may be seen in the wider central intercolumniation and the lack of anta projections, typical to the Doric style. Other [...]
