History:

is an ancient temple located at the archaeological site of Metaponto in Basilicata, Italy, and was erected in the 6th century BC. It was dedicated to Hera, the wife of Greek god Zeus, and is part of the larger complex known as the Temple of Hera Lacinia. The temple was used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices. It is one of the earliest examples of a Doric temple to be built in Italy. The temple has 17 surviving columns, of which eight are in the pronaos, or porch, and four in the cella, or main room. The columns are made of limestone and are decorated with painted terra-cotta antefixes, which depict rosettes, lotus leaves, and other floral designs. The roof is arched and supported by rafters. The interior is two-storied, with an old and a new cella. The exterior of the temple is also decorated with painted plaster and terra-cotta. It is one of the best temple in Italy which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Temple of Hera in Metaponto is an ancient Greek temple located in Italy. 2. It was built in the 7th century BC and dedicated to the goddess Hera. 3. The temple was discovered in 1954 at a site near the city of Metaponto. 4. It is the only known temple dedicated to Hera in Italy. 5. The temple consists of a large rectangular cella with a pronaos and opisthodomos. 6. The cella is surrounded by three extra columns which form a peristyle. 7. The columns are made of yellow marble with fluted decorations. 8. The temple is thought to have been constructed by the local ruler, Alexikos. 9. The Temple of Hera is considered to be one of the most important archaeological finds in southern Italy. 10. It is now a part of the Archaeological area of Metaponto and a popular tourist destination. Here are some facts about the Italy temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Italy

Worship Method:

The worship method of the Temple of Hera at Metaponto in Italy is similar to the way Greek temples were used in antiquity. The temple was used as a place of worship to the goddess, Hera, for whom the temple is named. It was used as a meeting place for holding altars, religious ceremonies, and festivities in honor of the goddess. Offerings were presented to her, including animals such as goats and sheep, as well as libations in the form of fruits, vegetables, and grains, which were poured out on the floors of the temple. Sacred dances called hymns were performed by the priestesses and pilgrims. Pilgrims would bring gifts of food and offerings to the temple to honor the goddess. Sacrifices of animals were also made as part of the worship ritual. Interspersed among the religious rituals were feasts and banquets, which were meant to celebrate the fertility of the land and the harvest. The temple was also a site for cultural activities, such as plays, debates, and poetry competitions, which showcased the accomplishments of the citizens of Metaponto. The people of Metaponto maintained their devotion to the goddess Hera by providing the temple with financial support, and were generous in offering up offerings of food, animals, and other items. The Temple of Hera is no longer used as a place of worship, but still stands to this day as a reminder of past civilizations and as an icon of Greek culture. This most visited temple in Italy

Opening Timing:

The Temple of Hera in Metaponto, Italy is usually open to visitors from 8:30 am – 7:00 pm from April to October. From November to March, the opening hours are from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm. top temples in Italy

How to reach:

The Temple of Hera at Metaponto in Italy is located in the south of the modern city of Metaponto, in the region of Basilicata. The easiest way to reach this site is by car. From the city centre, it takes around 15 minutes to drive to the temple. Alternatively, visitors can take the regional train from Naples to Metaponto, followed by a bus to the temple site. famous temples in Italy