In the ancient Agora of Athens, Greece, on top of Agoraios Kolonos hill, you will find the ancient Temple of Hephaestus. The Greek template is in relatively good shape considering its age. Construction of the temple first started in 449 BC and was completed and opened in 415 BC. From the modern 7th century to the early 19th century, the Greek Orthodox Church used and maintained the building, thus, its well-preserved appearance today.
In the ancient Greek pantheon of gods and goddesses, Hephaestus is the god of blacksmithing and fire. In ancient Greece, He was the patron god of metalworkers, blacksmiths, artisans, craft workers, and carpenters. The worship of Hephaestus could be found by sculptors and stonemasons, especially in Athens, Greece. Celebrations of Hephaestus frequently occurred in industrial centers of the ancient Greek world. As a divine blacksmith, Hephaestus forged weapons for the gods and goddesses of Olympus.
Construction of the Temple of Hephaestus started while the Greek politician Pericles led Athens. Pericles was the leader of Athens from 461 BC to 429 BC. While Pericles led Athens, the city acquired its status as an education and cultural center of ancient Greece. Construction of the Acropolis and Pantheon started during this time during the ‘Age of Pericles’ as historians call it.
A view of the Temple of Hephaestus from across the Ancient Agora in Athens Greece:
