GREEK MYTHOSThe Godsunder Codex · Places
DIDYMA (sanctuary in Ionia)
Human settlement and ancient sanctuary
- Kind of place
- Sanctuary
- Region
- Ionia
- Where
- 37.39° N, 27.26° E
The temple at Didyma contained a shrine, a place of divination, and significant wealth. Herodotus 6.19.3 Branchus is said to have presided over the temple at this location. Strabo 9.3.9 The temple at Didyma was plundered and burnt by the Persians. Herodotus 6.19.3
Described in the sources
An altar belonging to the Milesians is located at this site. Pausanias 5.13.11 A tomb of Neoptolemus is located within the sacred enclosure. Strabo 9.3.9 The Milesians possessed an image of Apollo located at this site. Pausanias 2.10.5 The current shrine at the site was constructed by the Amphictyons. Strabo 9.3.9
Stories and history
The Milesians claim the altar was made from the blood of sacrificial victims. Pausanias 5.13.11