Zeus Temple Complex (Gerasa)

Jerash, Jordan

The Temple of Zeus in the ancient city of Gerasa sits on a hill adjacent to the Roman theater. It was built in 162-163 CE, on the foundations of a first century temple, itself built on a second century BCE temple. It was a peristyle temple of 12 by 8 columns; the columns now standing have been re-erected, in the wrong locations. The cella, or inner sanctum, was simply decorated with niches on the outer walls and engaged pillars on the inner walls. The entrance walls included steps to the roof and a door to the adjacent South Theater.