Temple of Hephaestus
Ναός Ηφαίστου/Θησείο
One of the best preserved temples of Greek antiquity
The Temple of Hephaestus was dedicated to Hephaestus, the Olympian god of fire and blacksmithing, and Athena, the Olympian goddess of wisdom, strategy and crafts.
How was the Temple of Hephaestus created?
The Temple was constructed in the 5th century BC, during the ‘golden
age’ of Classical Athens. Archaeologists have dated its construction to
around the mid 5th century mark (c.449 BC). Situated in the Athenian
agora, the Temple consists of strong Doric columns, hexastyle (6×13
columns) in shape.
Above the columns are the architrave and the frieze, the latter
consisting of triglyphs interspersed with metopes. The 10 metopes on the
eastern side of the Temple of Hephaestus show the Labours of Heracles.
Above the triglyphs and metopes at each end of the temple are the
remains of the triangular pediments. These would have originally been
filled with large sculptures.
Constructed out of Pentelic marble, like its contemporary, more famous
structures that we find dotting the Acropolis, the Temple was dedicated
to Hephaestus, god of blacksmiths and fire. But Athena, patron goddess
of Athens, was also worshipped at this Temple. The ancient writer
Pausanias recorded how there were bronze statues to both of these
deities set up within the Temple.
Learn more
Who was the god of Fire and Blacksmithing?
Hephaestus made weapons and military equipment for the gods and certain
mortals, including a winged helmet and sandals for Hermes and the armor
for Achilles. Hephaestus became the divine smith and patron of
craftsmen; the natural volcanic or gaseous fires already connected with
him were often considered to be his workshops.
Who was the goddess of Wisdom?
Athena was considered to be the goddess of wisdom, military victory,
heroic endeavour and was also the patron of the city of Athens. Athena's
moral and military superiority represents the intellectual and civilised
side of war and the virtues of justice and skill. She personifies
excellence in close combat, victory and glory. She helped heroes in
their quests such as Perseus and Heracles. As the guardian of the
welfare of kings, Athena became the goddess of good counsel, of prudent
restraint and practical insight, as well as war.
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