Temple of Hephaestus (Athens)

Temple of Hephaestus (Athens)

 

Description of Temple of Hephaestus

Temple of Hephaestus (Athens)  Temple of Hephaestus (Athens)

Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best preserved temples in the city of Athens and all of Greece. Temple of Hephaestus was constructed in 449 - 415 BC. It was originally dedicated to Hephaestus (Roman equivalent Vulcan, hence the word "volcano"). He was a patron god of metal working and craftsmanship. Greeks believed that he lived deep in the mountain caves and his active work caused volcano eruptions. The temple was very lucky to change hands. From the 7th century to 1834 it served as a Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George Akamates. This preserved the structure from being destroyed by stone masons who reused other ancient structures to build new buildings in the Athens.