Temple of Artimus at Ephesus The radiant temple was made in honor of the Greek Goddess of hunting and wild nature, Goddess Artimus. This Goddess is sometimes known as Diana. The first shrine to the Goddess Artemis was built near 800 B.C. It was built on a swampy area near the Ephesus River. It occupied a precious stone to the people. In actuality it was probably a meteorite that had fell from Jupiter. The temple was rebuilt several times. Then in 550 B.C. the king Croesus was attracted to Ephesus and other Greek establishments because of the their wealth. He ran in and took over these areas. During the fighting the temple was destroyed. King Croesus rebuilt a new temple in effort to shoe he was a compassionate victor. An architect named Theordorus constructed this 300ft long and 150 ft wide temple. On July 356 BC an Ephesian named Herostratus wanted his name to never be forgotten so he burned down the temple. After that incident it became a rule that if anyone dare speak the name of Herostratus again they would be murdered. A famous architect name Scopas of Paros began the new temple. The new temple was 425 ft by 225 ft it was made with marble and was held by 36 columns. The inside contained artwork engravings and statues. This temple was destroyed many years later by the Goths and was never rebuilt again. Artemis Photos >> Ancient Wonders >> Natural Wonders >>