Temple of Poseidon (Taranto)

The Temple of Poseidon in Taranto was an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the god Poseidon, located in the city of Taranto (ancient Taras) in Magna Graecia, southern Italy. Its precise date of construction is debated, but it is generally believed to have been built in the 6th century BC, making it one of the oldest surviving Doric temples in the region.

The temple's existence is primarily known from the remains of its foundations and a limited number of columns, located beneath the modern city of Taranto. These remnants suggest a peripteral Doric temple, with a colonnade surrounding the cella (inner chamber). The distinctive features of the surviving columns, particularly their entasis (slight convex curve), have been the subject of scholarly study and contribute to our understanding of early Doric architecture.

The temple held significant religious and cultural importance for the inhabitants of Taranto, a powerful Greek colony founded by Spartans. Poseidon, as the god of the sea, held a particularly prominent position in the maritime life of the city, which thrived on trade and naval power.

The temple suffered damage and alteration throughout its history. During the Roman period, parts of the temple were incorporated into later structures. Over time, the site became buried under subsequent urban development.

Today, the remains of the Temple of Poseidon are an important archaeological site, although they are not readily visible. They provide valuable insight into the architectural and religious practices of the ancient Greek inhabitants of Taranto and contribute to our understanding of the wider history of Magna Graecia. Archaeological excavations continue to uncover further information about the temple and its surrounding area.