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by billmoy
Chicago, Illinois
June 24, 2002
The most prominent feature is the elegant round "tholos" (4th Century BC) that has an ethereal "Stonehenge" quality to it. The original round temple had 20 marble columns in the Doric style atop a stepped base, but most of them have been reduced to column stubs and bases. Currently the pieces forming the three reconstructed standing columns have a patchwork quality, with an appearance like that of a military camouflage uniform. These three columns support a partial entablature, while the lower courses of a partial circular wall rest on the stepped base. These partial elements give a remarkable hint at what the original intact tholos may have looked like. Unfortunately, no one is sure about the exact purpose or origin of the picturesque tholos.
Also in this deserted field is the ruins of the Old and New Temples of Athena. The older of the two has old Doric elements dating from the 6th Century BC. This area is a nice place to contemplate and enjoy the peaceful surroundings because you will rarely be overrun by hordes of tourists.
From journal Bill in Greece - DELPHI