Archaeologists on the Greek island of Evia have uncovered a previously unknown ancient temple featuring heavily used altars and a rich collection of valuable objects, adding to a series of significant discoveries in the region, according to popularmechanics.com. The temple, dating to the 7th century BC, is located near the renowned Temple of Amarysia Artemis, the Greek Ministry of Culture reports.
Fully excavated in 2023, the structure measures approximately 30 metres in length, typical for early Greek temples. Sections of its outer walls and a western arch survive, but the most remarkable finds were inside. Researchers discovered multiple hearths that appear to have served as altars, indicating intensive ritual activity over long periods.
One notable feature is a horseshoe-shaped altar. Thick layers of ash containing charred animal bones suggest repeated sacrifices, and pottery evidence indicates that ritual use of the site may date back to the late 8th century BC, predating the temple itself.
The excavations also revealed a variety of offerings, including Corinthian alabaster, Attic pottery, locally made ritual vessels, and jewellery crafted from gold, silver, coral, and amber. Amulets from the eastern Mediterranean, as well as bronze and iron fittings, were also found.
The temple was constructed with mudbrick walls atop a dry-stone foundation, reflecting the swampy terrain of the area. Signs of fire damage show that parts of the building were later reinforced and expanded, likely in the late 6th century BC.
Earlier layers contained bronze figurines of bulls and a ram from the Geometric period, along with a Mycenaean clay bull’s head. Evidence of human activity on the site goes back as far as the 9th century BC, suggesting that the sanctuary maintained religious significance for centuries.
