Hephaisteion

The Temple of Hephaestus, or Hephaisteion, is the most perfectly preserved temple remaining from the ancient Greek world. Built over the course of 34 years (449-415 BC), it is fitting that such a masterfully constructed Doric temple would be raised in honor of the patron god of craftsmanship. The temple is perched atop Agoraios Kolonos hill, in the shadow of the ancient Agora and Acropolis of Athens; its structure, forged from Pentelic and Parian marble, remains a sight to behold thousands of years on. Since words—it seems—can do no justice, I will allow my photographs to tell the rest of the story.

The Western Pediment, the Doric Colonnade, and the Ionic Frieze.

Another look at the temple's Western Pediment.

Looking Northwest to the Hephaisteion from the Acropolis.

Looking Southeast to the Acropolis from the Hephaisteion.

Hephaisteion: Ancient Greece's gift to the curious historian's imagination.