Syria Gate
The Temple of Artemis-Nanaia is the largest temple in the ancient Dura-Europos. It is dedicated to the Greco-Semitic fertility goddess Artemis-Nanaia.
History
Nanaia is a Mesopotamian goddess who, as is known from other sources, was equated with Artemis. The temple was mostly uncovered in 1922/1923 under the direction of Franz Cumont. The results of the excavations were published in 1926. It is the oldest temple in the city; it was likely built during the Hellenistic period but underwent several modifications over time. It consists of two parts. The sanctuary itself is located in the south; it comprises a vestibule—partially decorated with wall paintings—with three inner chapels situated behind it. In front of the main structure lie two chapels or rooms, the function of which remains uncertain. A statue of Aphrodite was discovered in one of these (to the left of the entrance), leading the excavators to designate the space as the "Chapel of Aphrodite." The structure itself stands within a courtyard, which is bordered on two sides by rooms. Some of these rooms feature built-in stone benches along the walls. One of the rooms was also quite elaborately decorated with ornamental stucco moldings. Opposite the entrance to the temple lies the main gateway facing the street. The courtyard continues into the northern section of the complex.
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