Dipteral Temples in Ionian Asia Minor : The Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

This thesis investigates the monumental dipteral temples of Ionian Asia Minor, with a particular focus on the Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus. Both sanctuaries represent extraordinary achievements of ancient Greek architecture, designed on an unprecedented scale and embodying the cultural and religious identity of their communities. The research aims to provide a detailed architectural analysis of the Temple of Apollo at Didyma, examining its dipteral plan, construction techniques, use of materials, and the challenges posed by its unfinished state. Special attention is given to the impact of seismic activity in western Anatolia, which influenced the structural development and later history of the temple. The study also compares Didyma with the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, highlighting both shared typological features and significant differences in scale, function, and cultic orientation. Methodologically, the thesis integrates archaeological evidence, early excavation reports, ancient literary testimonies, and recent scholarly contributions. Through this comparative approach, the study emphasizes the role of dipteral temples as both architectural innovations and symbolic expressions of divine worship. By combining the analysis of architecture, construction, and cultural meaning, this work contributes to a deeper understanding of Ionian temple design and its lasting significance within the history of classical architecture.