What I can see

From here, one could -until recently- distinguish a Roman temple’s podium. The temple however, comes from architectural parts of the archaic temple of Aphrodite (6^th or 5^th century BC), which was of Ionic order, peripteral, with six columns, a vestibule and a podium (stairs) of six steps. The monument is being stifled by the modern urban environment however, which has prompted many sensitive citizens and scientists to launch emergency action for its protection. The situation remains unchanged due to legal and bureaucratic obstacles, but for the monument’s protection, a provisional decision has been made to plough it.

What I can't see

Referred to as the “Parthenon of Thessaloniki”, this monument has attracted global interest, including from UNESCO and the Archaeological School of Berlin. It is historic and particularly important. During the Roman era (probably during Augustus’ reign), the archaic temple of Aphrodite was moved from Aenea (modern Nea Michaniona) and Caesar was most likely worshiped here. It is also likely that the temple was constructed with architectural parts from two older temples and not just one. Based on archaeological evidence (i.e. a wall from an earlier building), this was a place of worship before the temple’s parts were transferred. Roman statues of some significance as well as several pre-Roman Era findings were also uncovered here. Parts of the temple are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.

Info

• Address: Antigonidon Sq & Karaoli and Dimitriou ton Kyprion St.

Bibliography