Excavating a temple at the sanctuary of Artemis Amarynthos on the Greek island of Euboea, a four-year collaborative effort between Swiss and Greek archaeologists has uncovered a beautiful temple of Artemis, dating back to dating from the 7th century BC. Its size exceeded initial expectations, measuring an impressive 34 meters (111.5 feet) long, or 100 feet in the ancient Greek system of measurement, a “perfect” measurement encountered in ancient Greek cities. other relics of the same era.
The temple revealed certain surprises to archaeologists, as its floor plan turned out to be pyramidal (with a semicircular peak at one end), a rarity in the period. This.
The full length of the temple of Artemis Amarynthos shown here is notably 34 meters (111.5 feet). (Swiss School of Archeology in Greece)
Similar to previous years, recent excavations have uncovered many artifacts – vases, weapons, jewelry, among others.
According to a press release from the Swiss School of Archeology in Greece, an intricately carved ivory head with Egyptian features is among the finds that have been recovered with great effort after when initially unrecognizable.
An ivory head recently found at the temple of Artemis Amarynthos has Egyptian features. (Swiss School of Archeology in Greece)
After years of field research and in-depth exploration, the data collected is now being used. An international team of experts, including archaeologists, archaeologists, experts in microscopic analysis of excavation layers, ceramic experts and architects were all involved.
Sanctuary of Artemis: The Fire, the Restoration, the Cult of Animal Sacrifice?
The site exhibits evidence of a fire, suggesting that the “100 foot” temple was partially destroyed in the second half of the 6th century BC. It underwent temporary restoration with mud-brick walls before being completely replaced by a new building at the end of the century.
Deep test trenches have uncovered remains from earlier periods, including a potential building from the 9th or 8th century BC, bronze animal statues and terracotta bull heads from the end of the Bronze Age. Although the discovery of these ancient levels is still in its early stages, these findings confirm the origins of the cult of Artemis in Amarynthos, which extends into prehistoric times.
A variety of offerings and jewelry were found, including several bulls. ( ESAG )
In the traditional practice of animal sacrifice, the ceremony takes place with the designated animal being ceremonially led in procession to the altar. Once at the altar, the animal will be slaughtered as part of a religious offering. After sacrifice, the corpse is butchered and specific parts such as internal organs, bones and other inedible parts are burned.
This act of burning symbolizes the portion or portion of the deity, signifying the sacred nature of the offering. The remaining edible parts of the animal may be used in communal feasts or distributed to worshipers, depending on the cultural and religious customs associated with the particular sacrificial practice. This ritual is deeply ingrained in many ancient religious traditions as a means of establishing a connection between worshipers and the divine realm.
Sacrificial altar at the Temple of Artemis Amarynthos, Euboea. ( ESAG )
Ancient ceremonial structure
Located at the foot of a hill that has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, the sanctuary has revealed imposing walls dating from the 3rd millennium BC, possibly part of a fortification system. The existence of Amarynthos during the Mycenaean period is supported by the archives of the Mycenaean palace at Thebes in Boeotia. The remains of the prehistoric Amarynthos tree, visible throughout the reserve’s development, evoke stories of a heroic past akin to those in the Homeric epic, The Heritage Daily reported.
An extensive survey is being conducted in the Amarynthos region to understand how the reserve integrates into the ancient landscape, studying the natural environment, settlement distribution, agricultural areas, cemeteries, quarries and communications networks, including the “Sacred Road” connecting the sanctuary with the ancient city of Eretria.
Apollo and Artemis on a Greek cup from around 470 BC. Apollo, the archer, is on the left. Artemis, the huntress, is shown with a bow. (Briseis Artist/ Public Domain)
Artemis: Greek goddess of hunting
Artemis, a central figure in Greek mythology, was revered as the goddess of hunting, wilderness, and wild animals. The daughter of Zeus and Leto, with her twin brother Apollo, she was known for her archery and her role as protector of the hunt, often depicted with a bow and arrow. Artemis is also recognized as a virgin goddess, symbolizing her commitment to chastity.
In addition to her association with the moon, where she is considered the “torch bearer”, Artemis is also considered the protector of women and children, providing protection and support during childbirth.
The sanctuary of Artemis Amarysia represents a specific cult site dedicated to her worship.
Widely revered in ancient Greece, Artemis played an important role in various myths and stories, including her participation in the Trojan War. Her influence extended to different regions, with many cults and festivals dedicated to her worship, making her an integral part of the ancient Greek religious and cultural tradition.
