The World's Third Largest Temple Built in the Ten Style

This structure, considered one of the best preserved temples of antiquity, was completely unearthed and partially restored during excavations carried out between 1906-1913. During the excavations, the architectural elements that had lost their original qualities and the protective wall surrounding the temple were also rebuilt. The columns arranged in two rows around the temple indicate that the structure had a dipteros plan type. The only non-canonical architectural feature of the temple is the open-topped stone-paved courtyard in the middle. Inside this courtyard, there is a sacred water source whose exact location has not yet been determined and a small temple, or "naiskos". The temple's distinctive structure is based on its special function as an oracle center. The construction of this structure, which can be seen today but was never completed, began in the 4th or 3rd century BC. The pioneer temple, dating back to the 6th century BC, was quite famous at the time, but was destroyed by the Persians in the early 5th century BC. The foundation remains still visible in the central courtyard bear traces of this early temple. The Hellenistic naiskos in the central courtyard was dismantled in the 5th/6th century AD and replaced by a Christian basilica; however, the basilica, like the temple, was damaged by an earthquake and was destroyed.

Medusa, the Protector of the Temple

Medusa is the only mortal of the three sisters known as the Gorgos. In Greek mythology, the Gorgos consist of three sisters named Sthenno, Euryale and Medusa, who have snake hair, scary faces and the power to turn those who look at them into stone. The name "Gorgo", derived from the Greek word "Gorgos", means "terrifying, terrifying". Due to the belief in the frightening power of Medusa's head, the Greeks carved her head into their shields, objects they wanted to protect, buildings and temples.

While We're Here

Bafa Lake and its surroundings, located close to Didim, are important bird watching areas in Türkiye. In addition, natural beauties such as Karina, Kazıklı Bay, Menderes Delta and Dilek Peninsula National Park are also among the paradise corners worth visiting.