The Charred Triumph: The Greek Temple of Victory in Sicily

The **Greek Temple of Victory** (Greek *Nikē*) was a structure built in the ancient city of Himera, within Magna Graecia, situated in the archaeological region of Termini Imerese, Sicily, southern Italy. This temple was constructed between 480 and 470 BC by the Greek ruler Gelon of Syracuse, who led the Greek alliance that vanquished a Carthaginian assault force at the Battle of Himera in 480 BC. While many propose it was venerated to Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, this is not a belief that has widespread support. This temple was incinerated, likely during the period 480-470 BC, rather than in 409 BC when the Carthaginians seized the city of Himera. The circumstances of its destruction are still shrouded in mystery.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons