Temple of Jupiter Panhellenius, on the island of Aegina - Illustration from Views of Greece by Edward Dodwell

Temple of Jupiter Panhellenius, on the island of Aegina is an illustration from the collection Views in Greece from Drawings published by Edward Dodwell in 1821.

The Temple of Jupiter Panhellenius on the island of Aegina is a masterpiece of classical architecture. Its harmonious proportions and secluded location make it a place of contemplation and admiration, a lasting tribute to the gods and the skill of ancient Greek builders.

The literal transcription of the notice accompanying this plate is reproduced below:

Greece having been long neglected by a terrible drought, the oracle of Delphi was consulted. The Pythia replied that it was necessary to appease the anger of Jupiter and to employ the intercession of Aeneas with the god. Sacrifices were made to Jupiter Panhellenicus, and abundant rain was obtained for all Greece. The mountain has nothing curious except the temple of Jupiter.

It seems that this venerable edifice owed its origin to the feeling of gratitude excited by the beneficent intervention just mentioned. This temple is probably one of the oldest in Greece, and, if we can believe Pausanias, it was founded by Aeneas, son of Jupiter. When it was in its entirety, it offered thirty-six columns, independent of those contained in the cella. There were six at each end and twelve on each of the sides, including those at the four corners. Twenty-five of these still remain standing, as well as the lower parts of some of those which were inside. A large part of the architrave is still intact, but the cornice, the metopes, and the triglyphs have fallen. The temple is composed of a soft and porous stone, which was formerly covered with a beautiful stucco, giving it the appearance of marble. The extraordinary archaic statues which had fallen from the tympanums of the temple were discovered in the year 1811, and now form the most precious ornament of the magnificent collection of antiquities at Munich.

Although the Panhellenic hill, on which the temple is situated, is of moderate elevation, it commands views of a beauty and interest which are difficult to equal.

This temple, isolated from any human habitation, is surrounded by a forest of small trees and fragrant shrubs, including pine, juniper and mastic tree.

In the distance we can see the Saronic Sea, towards the island of Salamis, as well as Mount Parnes.

The figures represent the peasants of Aegina who provided us with provisions during the time we stayed near this temple.