Temple of Asklepios

Ancient temple dedicated to the god of healing

The Temple of Asklepios: The temple situated in the plain is the biggest and most famous one. Ancient medicine originated there and was initially practiced in a spiritual manner, gradually transitioning into a genuine healing approach. In the ancient world, around 200 Asklepieia existed, established, according to tradition, by the god from Epidaurus. The current entrance to the archaeological site is found on the temple's southwest, whereas the original entrance was on the north side. A visitor of that era would access the site through the grand Propylaia; walking along the Sacred Way (Iera Odos) and passing various secondary structures and many votive gifts, he would arrive at the heart of the sanctuary. The sanctuary included not just the Temple of Asklepios but also the Dome (Tholos, a round structure with underground passages, signifying the terrestrial residence of Asklepios) and the Abaton gallery (or Enkoimeterion, where individuals rested to be healed by the god during their slumber). Other significant structures in the Sanctuary include the Stadium, the Hestiatoreion (a dining hall for ritual feasts), the baths' complex, the Katagogeion (a lodging house), and, naturally, the large theatre located to the south of the temple. In the 2nd century AD, the temple underwent a lengthy reconstruction phase, and by the 4th century AD, worship and various religious activities were limited to the central area. The Basilica of Saint John, located to the northeast, is among the oldest and largest Christian churches in Greece