Opisthodomos

Definition

Opisthodomos refers to the rear room of a classical temple, typically found behind the main chamber, or naos. This space was often used for storing valuable items such as sacred objects or offerings and sometimes served as a secondary area for worship. The design and function of the opisthodomos highlight the importance of both storage and sanctity in ancient Greek temple architecture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The opisthodomos is commonly found in temples that follow the classical Greek architectural style, such as Doric and Ionic.
2. Often, the opisthodomos was decorated with elaborate sculptures and friezes that communicated religious narratives or honored deities.
3. In many temples, the opisthodomos had a specific entrance that provided access from outside the temple, allowing for the processional nature of worship.
4. While primarily functional for storage and religious practice, the design of the opisthodomos also reflects aesthetic principles central to Greek art and architecture.
5. Famous temples like the Parthenon on the Acropolis feature an opisthodomos, highlighting its significance in ceremonial practices and religious observances.

Review Questions

• How does the architectural design of an opisthodomos reflect the religious practices of ancient Greece?
  • The design of an opisthodomos reflects religious practices by providing a designated space for storing sacred items and offerings. This area emphasizes the sanctity of these objects, demonstrating their importance in worship. Additionally, its location behind the naos signifies a transition from public worship to more intimate acts of devotion, highlighting how architecture can enhance spiritual experiences.
• Discuss the relationship between the opisthodomos and other architectural elements of Greek temples, such as the naos and peristyle.
  • The opisthodomos is intrinsically connected to other architectural elements like the naos and peristyle in Greek temples. While the naos serves as the main sanctuary for worship, the opisthodomos functions as an important supplementary space that supports religious rituals. The peristyle, with its columns surrounding the temple, provides an inviting atmosphere that enhances accessibility to both the naos and opisthodomos, illustrating how each component works together to create a cohesive sacred environment.
• Evaluate how the function of the opisthodomos contributes to our understanding of ancient Greek societal values and priorities.
  • The function of the opisthodomos sheds light on ancient Greek societal values by highlighting their reverence for religion and their meticulous attention to preserving sacred objects. By dedicating a specific area for storage and ritual activities, Greeks demonstrated their belief in maintaining connections with their deities through offerings and ceremonies. This focus on sanctity and order reflects broader cultural priorities related to spirituality, civic duty, and communal identity within ancient Greek society.

Related terms

naos: The main inner chamber of a temple, where the cult statue of the deity was located, and where primary rituals were performed.

peristyle: A continuous row of columns surrounding a building or courtyard, which often frames the temple structure and provides a sense of openness and access.

antechamber: A small room leading to a larger space, serving as a transitional area before entering the main chamber, similar in function to the opisthodomos.