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After 25 centuries, Greek temple sees the light (CNN News)
Since its construction from around 540 B.C., it’s been hard to miss the Temple of Apollo in Corinth, about 50 miles southwest of the Greek capital of Athens.
That is, if you happened to be visiting during the day.
That changed on Saturday when the popular tourist attraction was lit up at night for the first time.
The project to illuminate the temple began in summer 2012, with a study carried out by the 17th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, which oversees the safeguard, conservation and administration of Hellenic heritage in the area.
"All the parameters related to energy conservation were taken into account, and attempts were made to avoid light pollution,” according to the Greek Reporter. "The temple (is) illuminated in such a way that will be easy to be reversed in case of restoration."
The striking columns and other remains of the Doric temple sit on an elevated terrace with impressive views of the area occupied by the ancient city, which was destroyed in a series of earthquakes, the latest in 1858.
The temple is an important historic attraction and favorite photo spot for tourists.
Ancient Corinth was at one time the largest city and wealthiest port in ancient Greece.