Temple of Aphrodite

The Temple of Aphrodite at Cnidus, located in modern-day Turkey, was a significant ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty. Excavated in 1970, it is notable for being a circular Doric temple that once housed a famous statue of Aphrodite sculpted by Praxiteles in the 4th century BCE. This statue was renowned in antiquity and was purchased by the people of Cnidus after being rejected by the citizens of Cos due to its nudity. Cnidus itself was an important commercial center and part of the Dorian Hexapolis. The city flourished until the 7th century CE. The worship of Aphrodite was widespread in the ancient world, with major centers on Cyprus and Cythera, and in Corinth. Aphrodisias, another ancient city in Caria, also had a prominent temple dedicated to Aphrodite and was known for its marble sculptures.123