The Sanctuary Of Artemis

The sanctuary of Artemis, located in Vravrona, Attica, was considered to be a site of great importance from the 6th century BC. According to archaeologists, the first known temple at the sanctuary of Vravrona was built in the archaic period (700 - 508 BC). Unfortunately, few are the remains of the original temple, which was destroyed in 480 BC by the invasion of the  Persians.

The temple was rebuilt in the 5th century while numerous other buildings were also founded near the particular site. Some of them were discovered during archaeological excavations, while others are still to be found. We are aware of their existence due to reports in ancient scriptures. The temple was constructed with local sandstone in the Doric style and held a key position, dominating above all the other buildings in the holy settlement. In this place today stands the church of Saint George.attica hotels

Intense excavations on the site started in 1948 by Ioannis Papadimitriou. In the 1950s, the Π-shaped Doric stoa surrounding the courtyard of the Temple of Artemis was restored under the supervision of Professor Ch. Bouras. The inner part of the temple was divided by a colonnade into 3 parts. At the end of the 5th c. a terrace was built in order for people to worship the goddess. The position of the altar is a matter of dispute. Close to the terrace of the temple existed a spring where the worshipers would throw their offerings. Numerous are the dedications that were recovered, mostly mirrors, rings, gems, etc. Especially valuable are objects made of bone and wood which have been preserved in the mud.

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