Situated close to the port of Naxos on the islet of Paltia, Portara, Naxos is a splendid huge marble doorway. It was in the 530 B. C. when Naxos reached the pinnacle of its ancient glory, the then rulers of the land the Lygdamis planned to build a temple which would be one of thehighest and the magnificent buildings of Greece. But there paln was never implemented as the war broke out with the subsequent over throw of the kingdom of the Lygdamis. What remains is the marble doorway of Portara, Naxos.
The temple which was planned to be built was supposed to be of 59 meters in height, 28 in width and consist a peristyle of 6x`12 columns with double porticoes on its both ends. It is known that the temple was supposed to be in hpnor of the Greek god Apollo. However there exists differences in opinion. Some believe that it was in the honor of Dionysus, who was patron God of Naxos. Portara, Naxos is popular tourist attraction in Naxos.
Portara, Naxos is of 6 meter in height and 3.5 meter in width and has four separates columns which weigh about 20 tons each. A church was built just behind the doorway in the middle ages. During the middle ages, attempts were made to demolish the gateway and the marble to be used in constructing the other Venetian structures. But however, the structure survived as it was to be heavy to be broken into pieces. A present three of the four columns of Portara, Naxos have stood the test of time. The glimpse of the sunset through the marble gateway is one of the breathtaking sights. The gateway in Portara can be seen from far away places.
Portara, Naxos serves as the landmark of Naxos and as you see the the city through this glorious specimen of marble it appears that the city is viewed through a photo frame of marble. The place is well connected to all parts of Greece and is easily accessed. Never miss to see this spectacular showcase of Greek architecture.
travel.mapsofworld.com provides information on Portara, Naxos.
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