mythologer: The dramatic coastal location of Soúnio (Cape Sounion) in southern Attica was an ideal
mythologer: The dramatic coastal location of Soúnio (Cape Sounion) in southern Attica was an ideal spot for a Temple of Poseidon, god of the sea. Standing atop sheer cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, the marble temple has served as a landmark for sailors from ancient times to today. Local marble was used for the Temple of Poseidon’s Doric columns; 15 of the original 34 survive today. The columns were cut with only 16 flutings instead of the usual 20, which reduced the surface area exposed to the wind and sea water. On the east side of the main path is an Ionic frieze made from 13 slabs of Parian marble. Badly eroded now, it depicted scenes from the battle of the Lapiths and centaurs and from the adventures of the hero Theseus (son of Poseidon in some legends). The east pediment, on which only a seated female figure is preserved, probably once depicted the battle between Poseidon and Athena for the domination of Attica. Lord Byron carved his name in the marble of one of the columns in 1810. He set an unfortunate precedent, as the temple is now covered in scrawled signatures and initials. This is a great example of the blend of Doric and Ionic styles that were found in many Ancient Greek temples.And Lord Byron with the OG graffiti tag. -- source link
#ancientgreekarchitecture#pediments#templeofposeidon#lordybyron