Temples built on 'sacred soil'

Gregory Retallack has published a study that provides evidence that Classical Greek temples were built on soil that was related to the deity they served.

In this study Retallack took soil samples from several sites in Greece to determined the potential usage of the land, and to associate it with the god that was worshiped on the site.

Retallack noticed a pattern: The soil appeared to be directly connected to the mythology surrounding the god or goddess honored by the particular temple. Buildings dedicated to Athena and Zeus, for example, were erected on soils of citadels.

"These are the god and goddess of warrior societies, and their temples are mostly on or near easily defensible hills, with evidence of long prior occupation," he explained.

Temples dedicated to Artemis and Apollo -- associated with hunting -- were located on likely former hunting grounds. Hera and Hermes buildings sat atop clay-rich soil that would have been suitable for cattle grazing, in keeping with "Hermes the ram-bearer" and "ox-eyed queen Hera."

In Ancient Greece, Soil Was Sacred : Discovery News