Didyma - Didymaion The Temple of Apollo at Didyma, also known as Didymaion, ranked as the fourth largest temple in ancient Greece. Its oracle, renowned as the second most significant after Delphi, exerted great influence over the religious and political affairs of Miletus and the wider Mediterranean world. Numerous rulers, including Alexander the Great (356-323 BCE) and Diocletian (244-313 CE), sought the guidance of Apollo at Didyma. The oracle played a pivotal role in instigating the Great Persecution of Christians under Roman Emperor Diocletian, before being transformed into a Christian church of uncertain date, some suggesting the 5th or 6th century CE or earlier. The Didymaion, located near a natural spring that the Greeks believed to be the source of its prophetic power, superseded an earlier, smaller temple built by the inhabitants of Miletus in the 6th century BCE. However, the new temple was devastated by either Persian King Darius in 496 BCE or Xerxes in 480 BCE. According to legend, the sacred spring ceased to flow until Alexander the Great passed through and restored its sanctity in 331 BCE. The first recorded oracle pronouncements favored this young Macedonian king. The Political & Religious Importance of the Didymaion In the ancient world, where politics and religion were intertwined, the Temple of Apollo at Didyma played a significant role in both spheres. The temple complex hosted numerous religious events, such as festivals, sacrifices (including animal offerings), and votive offerings, and influenced Milesian law and public affairs, providing protection against enemies. Given the temple's importance, the position of high priest was a coveted and prestigious role. The high priest, elected to a one-year term, was typically a wealthy and influential aristocrat from Miletus, deeply involved in the city's politics and trade. The high priest's responsibilities included financing activities related to the sanctuary. The position of high priest was so significant that several Roman emperors, such as Trajan, Hadrian, and Julian, were elected to this post, attesting to the temple's importance in the religious and political affairs of Miletus and the broader Mediterranean world.