Although some scholars hypothesize that this temple seen in the archaeological park of Selinunte was dedicated to the god, Zeus, the technical name of this structure is “Temple G” since there are no marks found on the site that can be used for conclusive identification. Temple G is located outside the boundaries of the settlement of Selinunte, where there was more space available for building and for the long procession associated with religious rituals; in addition, the site of Temples E, F, and G offers a clear view towards Carthage, a constant threat for the ancient inhabitants of Selinunte. Temple G, in particular, is the 4th largest Doric temple in the Greek world and the 2nd largest in Sicily. Size was a demonstration of strength and a show of force in the ancient world; the width of one of the capitols (seen above) encapsulates the incredible dimensions of this temple. Although this spectacular monument now lies mostly in ruins, the study of this temple provides valuable information about the methods that ancient engineers used in their construction. Unfluted drums can be seen lying among the ruins, showing that the temple was never completely finishes. By measuring the use of angle contractions in the temple design as a dating device, scholars were able to determine that a devastating attack by the Carthaginians on Selinunte had most likely halted the building process. In addition, square depressions can be seen on some of the drums, which were designed as place-holders of lead posts, inserted to keep the columns together. U-shaped indentations can also be seen in some of the blocks, which were used to help lift the massive rocks from the quarry to the building site.
