What is the primary orientation of the Temple of Apollo Epikourios?

The Temple of Apollo Epikourios, located in Bassae, is primarily oriented along a north-south axis. This orientation is significant as it aligns with the ancient Greek architectural practice of situating temples in relation to cardinal points, often for symbolic and astronomical reasons. This temple, dedicated to Apollo Epikourios, is notable for its unique construction features and the manner in which it integrates with the natural landscape, which further emphasizes its north-south alignment.

The choice of a north-south orientation is also seen in the temple's structure, where the entrance and the colonnade face this direction. This choice affects how sunlight reaches the temple, enhancing its visual impact during different times of the day. Understanding the orientation helps highlight the cultural and religious significance the ancient Greeks placed on the positioning of their sacred spaces.