The Temple of Concordia, located in Acragas (Agrigento), Sicily, is a great example of Greek art and architecture. The structure is considered the largest and best-preserved Doric temple in Sicily and one of the best-preserved Greek temples in general. It has a peripteral plan measuring 6 x 13 with double contractions of the columns on all four sides, accompanied by subtle shifting of the metopes. The temple was erected between 450 and 430 BCE and is often called the Parthenon of Magna Graecia.
Acragas was founded in 580 BCE by Greek settlers from Gela led by Aristonous and Pystilus. The Temple of Concordia was probably dedicated to Castor and Pollux, but it might as well have been dedicated to other divinities since its ancient function remains unknown. When Christianity emerged as Rome’s dominant religion, many pagan temples were converted into churches or destroyed, which fortunately did not happen to this particular building – it was converted into a Christian church in the sixth century A.D.
The Temple of Concordia is an icon within Sicilian history for many reasons; however, its architectural design makes it an essential element for those studying classic Greek art. For aspiring artists or architects studying architecture’s evolution through time – this temple provides insight into classic Greece’s Golden Age (400-440 BC) style!
