- The Second Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was burnt down on 21 July 356 BCE by the arsonist Herostratus, who was then executed by the council of Ephesus.
- He sought fame at any cost, by setting fire to the roof timbers, hence the term Herostratic fame, meaning Fame at any price.
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- The Second Temple of Artemis was described by Antipater of Sidon as the greatest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- It was commenced circa 550 BCE by King Croesus of Lydia and took 10 years to build.
- It’s length was 130m (426.5ft) and it’s height 18m (60ft).
- Supposedly, it the was the first Greek Temple built of Marble, in order to reflect the wealth of King Croesus.
Location of the Second Temple of Artemis, Izmir