Temple of Aphrodite

The Temple of Aphrodite was an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess of love Aphrodite. It was located on the island of Kythira, which was considered sacred due to its association with the birth of Aphrodite.

History and Significance

The temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples dedicated to Aphrodite in Greece, dating back to the 6th century BCE. According to Hesiod, Kythira was the first island that Aphrodite passed as she rose from the sea. The temple was dedicated to Aphrodite under her name and aspect as Aphrodite Ourania (the Heavenly), and it contained a statue of an Armed Aphrodite.

The temple's significance is further emphasized by Herodotus, who described it as the oldest of all the temples of the goddess. He noted that the temple in Cyprus was founded from this one, as the Cyprians themselves said, and that the Phoenicians from Syria had also established a temple on Kythira.

Architecture and Description

The temple is described as a small building, despite its significance as a major center for the Aphrodite cult. It was located at the Paleoastro Mountain (253 m) on the island of Kater, which was considered sacred due to its association with the birth of Aphrodite. The temple's doxure (a term used in ancient Greek architecture) is believed to have been the great temple of Aphrodite in Cyprus.

Archaeological Excavations

In 1973, an archaeological excavation was conducted at the site of the Temple of Aphrodite by a team from the University of Pennsylvania and the British School at Athens. The excavation uncovered evidence of the temple's existence and provided valuable insights into its history and significance.

Names and Associations

The temple is also known as the Aphrodite Sanctuary, and its name has been associated with various other names for the goddess, including Aphrodite Ouranía (Aphrodite of Heaven) and Aphrodite Kytherea. According to legend, Kater was the first island that Aphrodite entered after she was born from the sea.

References

* Herodotus
* Hesiod
* Pausanias
* Archaeological excavation reports from 1973