Temple of Poseidon, Taranto

In the heart of Taranto, a city rich in history and culture, stands a remarkable relic of ancient Greece: the Temple of Poseidon (Tempio di Poseidone). This ancient temple, located at Piazza Castello, is a testament to the grandeur and architectural prowess of the ancient Greeks. It holds the distinction of being the oldest temple in Magna Graecia and remains the only Greek place of worship that visitors can still explore in the region.

The History of the Temple of Poseidon

The Temple of Poseidon dates back to the first quarter of the 6th century BCE. It is believed to have been initially constructed with a simpler design, which was later expanded to include the Doric peristasis, a colonnade surrounding the temple. This expansion phase is evident from the lack of constructive connections in the foundations between the older core and the later additions.

Throughout its long history, the temple has seen its share of turmoil and transformation. During the post-antique period, it suffered from plundering, and parts of it were repurposed for other constructions. By the 1700s, ten columns were still visible, but these were removed during the reconstruction of the Celestine Convent in 1729. Further archaeological interest in the late 19th century, led by Luigi Viola, attributed the temple to the worship of Poseidon. However, it is now considered more likely to have been dedicated to female deities such as Artemis, Persephone, or Hera.

The temple's decline continued with the demolition of the convent in 1926 and a nearby church in 1973, leading to the loss of additional artifacts. Despite these losses, the remaining structures offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Architectural Marvels

Today, visitors to the Temple of Poseidon can marvel at the two surviving Doric columns, which stand as proud remnants of the ancient structure. These columns, crafted from local limestone, measure 8.47 meters in height and 2.05 meters in diameter, with a distance of 3.72 meters between them. These dimensions suggest that the temple originally featured six columns on its short sides and thirteen on its long sides, with its façade likely facing the canal.

The temple's architectural features, such as the profile of the capitals and the low, stacked drums of the columns, date back to the early 5th century BCE. Near the columns, traces of a small pit and signs of a wooden floor and steps indicate the presence of an earlier cult building made of perishable materials, likely constructed by the first Spartan settlers in the late 8th century BCE.

A Journey Through Time

The sacred space of the Temple of Poseidon was abandoned at the end of the 3rd century BCE following the Roman conquest of Taranto. However, it saw a revival in the 6th century CE when it was repurposed for silos and granaries during a period of defensive retreat to the peninsula. By the 10th century, the temple's remains housed a Christian place of worship, and from the 14th century onward, parts of the area were used for productive activities, including clay decanters and small kilns.

Exploring the Temple of Poseidon Today

Visiting the Temple of Poseidon is a journey back in time, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient world. As you stand before the towering columns, you can imagine the grandeur of the temple in its heyday, a place of reverence and worship for the ancient Greeks. The surrounding area, with its historical layers, tells a story of resilience and adaptation through the centuries.

While much of the temple has been lost to time and human activity, the remaining structures provide a tangible link to the past. The site is a poignant reminder of the cultural and historical significance of Taranto, a city that has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia.

Conclusion

The Temple of Poseidon in Taranto is more than just an ancient ruin; it is a symbol of the city's rich heritage and enduring legacy. As you explore the site, you can feel the echoes of history and the spirit of the ancient Greeks who once worshipped here. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an archaeology buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Temple of Poseidon offers a fascinating and enriching experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ancient world and its enduring influence on our modern lives.