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    Sacred Stones: The Enduring Legacy of Ancient Greek Temples
    Despite initial impressions, ancient Greek temples were not built to impress 21st-century tourists; they were made to house gods. Although the statues are gone and the ceremonies have long since ended, these places still hold a quiet kind of power. Its not just the scale of the columns or the age of the stone that stays with you, but the feeling that something important once happened here, and that, somehow, the memory of it still lingers.What Made a Greek Temple Sacred?To understand why these temples matter, it helps to let go of the modern concept of a church or mosque. Ancient Greek temples werent places where communities gathered every Sunday to worship. They were homes for the gods, sacred dwellings for a deitys presence, often housing a larger-than-life statue of the god or goddess to whom the temple was dedicated within the naos, the temples inner chamber.The land where each temple stands was carefully chosen. The location was actually part of the sacred experiencesometimes high on an acropolis, sometimes near a spring, sometimes where legend said a god once walked. The site was never meant to be practical, but symbolic, and thats part of why visiting these ruins can feel surprisingly moving. Often, it is the setting itself that delivers much of the impact.In ancient Greece, rituals and sacrifices took place outside the temple. Followers brought animals, wine, oil, and offerings to honor the gods in open-air ceremonies. Photo of Sacrifice of a lamb on a Pitsa Panel, Corinth, 540530 BCE via Wikimedia.Design likewise played a key role in the building of ancient Greek temples, with every element carefully picked to reflect both function and meaning. Everything, from direction of the entrance faced to the number of columns used, held particular significance. More than mere places of worship, temples also served civic and political functions. At a time in history when the boundaries between the religious and the political were rarely clear, temples often stood at the epicenter of both.So when you stand in front of a temple today, remember that youre not just looking at old rocks. Youre seeing a site that once pulsed with spiritual energy, communal pride, and the rhythms of daily life in ancient Greece.Temples That Still Speak TodaySome temples are so well known that theyve become symbols for ancient Greece, while others sit quietly in the background, half-forgotten but still standing. What they all share is a kind of cultural presence that lingers.Here are five that continue to shape how we see the ancient world.The Parthenon (Athens)The Parthenon remains the most iconic of all ancient Greek temples, blending architecture, politics, and mythology atop the Acropolis in Athens. Photo by Christophe Meneboeuf, Abguss Museum.If youve seen one ancient Greek temple, chances are it was the Parthenon. Towering over Athens from the Acropolis, its one of the most recognizable ruins in the world. But for all its fame, what the Parthenon meant when it was built is often lost beneath its image.It was constructed in the fifth century BCE during Athens golden age, not just as a temple to Athena but as a declaration of power, wealth, and cultural superiority. After Athens led the resistance against Persia, the city poured war funds into building projects, none more ambitious than this.Inside, a massive gold and ivory statue of Athena once stood, crafted by the sculptor Phidias. Most Athenians never saw it up close, but its presence still mattered. The statue was meant to embody the goddess and, by extension, the strength and ambition of the city that bore her name. Outside, detailed friezes told stories of battles, gods, and civic order. The Parthenon was essentially Athens telling the world that it was both chosen by the gods and in charge of its own destiny.Over time, the building changed roles more than once. It became a church, then a mosque, then an Ottoman gunpowder store. An explosion in 1687 caused major damage, and in the 19th century, much of its sculptural decoration was removed and taken to Britain.Even in its damaged state, the Parthenon remains one of the most visited landmarks in Europe. Youll often see scaffolding as restoration work moves slowly forward, but the structure still cuts an unforgettable figure. It no longer houses a goddess, true, yet it continues to command attention, respect, and a complicated kind of awe.The Temple of Apollo (Delphi)Set against the cliffs of Mount Parnassus, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi was once home to Greeces most powerful oracle, Pythia. Photo by Skyring via Wikimedia.Few ancient sites feel as charged with atmosphere as Delphi. Perched on the flanks of Mount Parnassus, surrounded by fragrant pines and stunning cliffs, the Temple of Apollo once marked what the ancient Greeks believed to be the center of the world. Legend has it that Zeus summoned two eagles from opposite ends of the earth, and this is where they met.Understandably, Delphi was one of the most sacred places in ancient Greece, believing the temple to be a direct link between mortals and the divine. They came from across the Greek world and beyond to consult the oracle, a priestess known as the Pythia, who spoke the words of Apollo. Inside the temple, she sat on a tripod above a natural fissure and entered a trance, often after breathing in sweet-smelling vapors that rose from the ground.For a long time, those vapors were considered legend. But modern studies have shown that two geological fault lines run beneath the temple. These faults release small amounts of ethylene gas, which can cause lightheadedness and altered states of awareness. Ancient descriptions of the oracles behavior now make a lot more sense.Painting of the Oracle of Delphi: King Aigeus in front of the Pythia. Photo via Wikimedia.The Pythias words were often cryptic, but they carried weight. Her responses were interpreted by priests and could shape major decisions. Military campaigns, political alliances, and the founding of new colonies were all influenced by what was said in this mountain sanctuary. Rulers brought gifts. City-states came seeking guidance. Delphi became more than a religious site. It was a place where belief and power came together.The temple that stands in ruins today is not the original. Several versions came and went over the centuries. What remains is mostly from the fourth century BCE, built after an earthquake destroyed its predecessor. Although much of the structure is gone, enough is left to picture its former glory: six tall Doric columns, a commanding platform, and the dramatic drop-off behind it. The view stretches far down to the valley below, with the Gulf of Corinth shimmering in the distance.Its not hard to understand why people believed the gods might actually be close in a place like this.The Temple of Poseidon (Cape Sounion)Cape Sounions Temple of Poseidon stands as a spectacular example of coastal sanctuaries in ancient Greek architecture. Photo by George E. Koronaios via Wikimedia.If youve ever taken a sunset trip from Athens, chances are someone recommended Cape Sounion. It is easy to see why. The Temple of Poseidon stands on a rocky headland, surrounded by sea on three sides, with wind tearing through the ruins and gulls wheeling overhead. It feels remote, but not lonely.The temple was built in the fifth century BCE, around the same time as the Parthenon. Like many coastal sanctuaries, it had a dual purpose. It was a place to worship the god of the sea, but it also sent a message. Ships entering or leaving Athens would see it from afar, a sign that the city was protected and powerful.What remains today are 17 Doric columns of local marble, softened by sea air and streaked with history. Lord Byron famously carved his name into one, though modern visitors are strongly discouraged from following suit.Poseidons temple is less about grandeur and more about impact. There are no elaborate sculptures, nor hidden chambers. Just the stark presence of a place that has stood watch over the Aegean for nearly 2,500 years. And when the sun goes down and everything turns to gold, it becomes hard to argue that sacredness ever left.The Temple of Hera (Olympia)At the Temple of Hera in Olympia, ancient ritual meets modern traditionthis is where the Olympic flame is still lit today. Photo by George E. Koronaios via Wikimedia.Olympia is best known for giving us the Olympic Games, but long before athletics became the headline, this was a place of serious worship. The Temple of Hera is one of the oldest stone temples in Greece, dating back to around 590 BCE. While the nearby Temple of Zeus was larger and more elaborate, Heras temple is the one that has lasted.Built in the early Doric style, it originally had wooden columns that were gradually replaced with stone. Over time, this gave the building a slightly mismatched look, which added to its charm. It also became a focal point for rituals connected to the Games. In fact, its here that the Olympic flame is still lit for each modern Games, using a parabolic mirror and sunlight.The blend of ancient and modern tradition gives the temple a unique kind of continuity. Though its roof is long gone and most of its walls are reduced to stumps, the sense of ceremony lingers. You can even race your travel mate down the 100m sprint track. Silly but fun!History lovers might note something striking about the idea that the world still pauses to light a flame on this very spot every four years.The Temple of Aphaia (Aegina)The Temple of Aphaia, one of Greeces best-preserved ancient temples, sits on the lesser-visited island of Aegina. Photo by Dimitris Manolaros via Wikimedia.Tucked away on the island of Aegina, the Temple of Aphaia doesnt always make the top of travel lists, but it really should. Its one of the best-preserved temples in Greece and one of the few where you can walk around the full perimeter without major reconstructions blocking your view.Built in the early fifth century BCE, the temple is dedicated to Aphaia, a local goddess who later merged with Athena in the broader Greek pantheon. What makes it especially interesting is its role in what some historians call the Sacred Triangle. If you draw lines between the Temple of Aphaia, the Parthenon in Athens, and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, you get a near-perfect isosceles triangle.Whether or not that geometry was intentional is unknown, but it definitely adds another layer of fascination. This temple also holds a transitional place in architectural history, showing elements from both the Archaic and Classical periods. The pediments once featured striking battle scenes between Greeks and Trojans, many of which are now housed in Munich.Ruins, Reuse, and RebirthAncient temples didnt all fade into peaceful ruin. Many were repurposed, destroyed, looted, or adapted across centuries. As religious and political winds shifted, temples were often converted into Christian churches or Islamic mosques; others were taken apart, and their stones were used to build fortresses, homes, or roads.Natural disasters played their part, too. Earthquakes, fires, and floods damaged or toppled structures. Then came centuries of treasure hunting and archaeological digs, some more careful than others. The rise of European interest in the classical world during the 18th and 19th centuries brought new attention and new problems. Artifacts were removed, sold, or displayed in foreign museums, sometimes without consent.Photo of the Parthenon Marbles by Oliver Mallich via Flickr.One of the most debated examples is the removal of the Parthenon Marbles, pictured above, by Lord Elgin. While defenders argue they were saved from decay, critics highlight the cultural dislocation and ongoing requests by Greece for their return.The Legacy TodayThe architectural language developed in ancient Greek temples spread far beyond the Greek world, leaving a lasting mark on how buildings were imagined and constructed in later centuries. Roman architects adopted and adapted these forms, laying the groundwork for styles that would reemerge during the Renaissance and continue into the neoclassical period across Europe and the Americas. Features like columns, triangular pediments, and symmetrical facades came to represent elegance, order, and authority.The pediment, placed above the entrance, often held sculpted scenes from mythology, while the balanced layout of the facade gave the whole structure a sense of harmony. You can still see echoes of these temples in courthouses, museums, banks, and universities around the world.Pediments, like this one from a ruined Greek temple, once held sculpted stories of gods, heroes, and legendary battles. Photo by Gary Todd via Flickr.Today, temples continue to draw millions of visitors each year. People come for different reasons. Some are drawn by the myths, some by the history, and some just want a good Insta-worthy photo. But almost everyone comes away with something. It might be a moment of stillness, a sense of scale, or a new curiosity about the ancient world.So, in a way, these temples are still doing their job. They were built to connect people to something greater. And they still do, even if we no longer know the rituals.
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    Stardew Valley: Pirate's Wife Quest Guide & Walkthrough
    Stardew Valley isnt exactly known for its intensive quests. The majority of them are 1 or 2-step requests that see you hunting around the map for a specific item and returning it to its owner.
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    12 Aldi Groceries That Might Shoot Up In Price
    Enjoying a morning cup of coffee and an evening glass of wine may look more expensive soon. Here are 12 imported grocery items that may go up in price at Aldi.
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    The Ingredient Swap That Completely Changed A McDonald's Breakfast Staple
    McDonald's food is pretty reliable across the board, but its breakfast menu saw some big changes when the restaurant swapped just one ingredient.
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    Trisha Yearwoods Famous Blueberry Crumb Bars Are So Good, Im Making Them on Repeat This Summer
    Summer is just a few weeks away, and Im on the lookout for ways to put a fresh spin on classic desserts. One treat I always love during the warmer months? Blueberry pie. So when I came across a popular recipe (boasting hundreds of five-star reviews!) that reimagines the classic, I knew I had to give it a try.This remixed blueberry pie recipe comes from singer and Food Network star Trisha Yearwood, who transforms the traditional summer staple into a custardy bar. The reviews are glowing.READ MORE...
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    Apple faces unprecedented pressure ahead of WWDC, and risks falling short
    Unlike previous years, Apple was already under pressure ahead of WWDC 2025. With the first year of its Apple Intelligence platform delivering underwhelming features, the company still hasn't caught up with other AI competitors. For instance, Apple had to tweak the notification summary functionality, users complained about odd Genmoji results, Writing Tools missed mistakes, and Cupertino indefinitely delayed what was supposed to be its most impressive feature, Siri's on-screen awareness. It's fair to say this hasn't been Apple's strongest year.Even so, rumors suggest Apple has only a few AI features lined up for the WWDC 2025 keynote, as it plans to focus on improving what's already there. If that's true, Apple risks falling even further behind, especially with Google exploring agentic browsing and OpenAI literally building a device that might replace the iPhone.Given all that, the currently rumored iOS 19 features don't seem likely to surprise or excite users or shareholders. The latest reports suggest Apple is planning a system-wide redesign for iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 to make them more integrated and visually aligned, adopting a visionOS-style look.Twelve years ago, a redesign of iOS was one of the most exciting changes an iPhone user could experience. In 2025, though, it feels more like Apple is stalling and uncertain about its AI direction.Yesterday, when OpenAI announced a partnership with Jony Ive, the launch of a new io company, and plans for a family of AI products, it felt like I was watching the future through my iPhone. Apple's device, once the pinnacle of tech, has never felt more outdated.With that in mind, I'd say Apple has one last shot to convince users it still has what it takes. But the latest rumors point to this being one of the most disappointing WWDCs yet.Don't Miss: Decoding io: 5 things weve learned about Altman and Ives first AI productThe post Apple faces unprecedented pressure ahead of WWDC, and risks falling short appeared first on BGR.Today's Top DealsTodays deals: $150 AirPods 4 with ANC, $30 JBL speaker, $55 Ring Battery Doorbell, $279 Miele C1 vacuum, moreMemorial Day security camera deals: Reolinks unbeatable sale has prices from $29.98Amazon gift card deals, offers & coupons 2025: Get $2,000+ freeTodays deals: Heybike ALPHA, $299 Apple Watch Series 10, $90 23-piece cookware set, more
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    When will Apple release M5 Macs?
    After unveiling pretty much all the M4 Macs (perhaps there's still a Mac Pro to be announced), Apple can now move on to the next M5 chip generation. The M5 family will mark an important milestone for Cupertino as the company keeps improving its processors to perform AI tasks better.While there are only a few rumors about when Apple is expected to release M5 Macs, the picture of what the company could unveil in the next few quarters is taking shape.M5 will be big for Apple IntelligenceImage source: Christian de Looper for BGRApple reportedly started mass-producing the M5 chip in January. While we're still months away from an official release, ET Newssays the Apple M5 chip packaging is handled by Taiwans ASE, the US Amkor, and Chinas JCET. Initial mass production has been started by ASE, and mass production with Amkor and JCET will follow suit.These companies also add resources to make the high-end M5 Pro, M5 Max, and M5 Ultra chips. While power efficiency has been improved by 5-10% and performance improved by 5% compared to the M4 chip, we need to see them in action to know if the AI processors can fully power future Apple Intelligence features and other complex tasks.According toThe Elec, the M5 chip will feature an enhanced ARM architecture and be manufactured using TSMCs latest 3-nanometer process technology, an improvement over the M3 and M4 chips. The M5 processor will adopt a new System on Integrated Chip (SoIC) technology, which enhances thermal management and reduces electrical leakage.With that, we could see enhancements in performance and efficiency, and a broader focus on Neural Engine tasks for AI and Apple Intelligence. Interestingly enough, now that Apple announced it might skip Ultra chips in some generations, it's possible that the company will unveil an M5 Ultra processor due to this new SoIC technology.M5 MacBook and Mac release datesImage source: Christian de Looper for BGRThe M5 Macs aren't expected to be released before the fall of 2025. Still, Apple can introduce these new computers anytime, as it unveiled the M4 MacBook Air and the M4 Max/M3 Ultra Mac Studio in March. While we still have no words on a new Mac Pro, the company may save an upgrade for an M5 Ultra chip. With that in mind, this is when we could expect new M5 Macs:MacBook Pro: The M5 MacBook Pro is expected to be released in the second half of 2025, not before the fall; it should include M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max options.MacBook Air: If Apple follows the trend, a new MacBook Air will likely be released by the beginning of 2026, around the first quarter.Mac Studio: Rumors suggest that Apple is planning a new Studio Display, so the company might also release a new Mac Studio with the M5 chip. This computer could ship with an M5 Ultra chip by mid-2026.Apple's schedule for releasing updates for the Mac mini, iMac, and Mac Pro has been irregular lately. That said, if the company plans to release these Macs, the first two could be available anytime from late 2025 to mid-2026, while the latter could be available from mid-2026 to late 2026.macOS 16 will power the next generation of M5 MacsImage source: Jos Adorno for BGRSince the M5 Macs are expected to be released in late 2025, they will feature Apple's new macOS 16 operating system. This will mean that, at least from the outside, these computers will look different.Bloombergs Mark Gurman reportsthat macOS 16 will fundamentally change the look of the operating systems and make Apples various software platforms more consistent. According to the journalist, Apple will unify the look of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS to deliver a more straightforward experience through the platform.With that, Apple will adjust the look of icons, menus, apps, windows, and system buttons. This is said to be the most significant redesign for the iPhone since iOS 7 and for the Mac since Big Sur. The primary goal behind these design overhauls is to bring more cohesion to Apples disparate operating systems.Besides that, Apple is expected to add new features to its Intelligence system. Below, you can learn more about macOS 16.Don't Miss: macOS 16: Rumors, features, release date, supported devices, moreThe post When will Apple release M5 Macs? appeared first on BGR.Today's Top DealsTodays deals: $1,750 Amazon gift card, Sonos speaker sale, Hisense 75-inch smart TV, foam dog beds, moreAmazon gift card deals, offers & coupons 2025: Get $2,000+ freeTodays deals: $99 AirPods 4, $50 TP-Link WiFi 6 router, $279 3D printer, $200 Toshiba smart TV, moreTodays deals: $399 iPad mini, $188 Vizio surround sound, $32 Thermacell mosquito repeller, more
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    New Species Of Flapjack Octopus, A Shape-Shifting Cephalopod Of The Deep, Found In Australia
    Blood-red, big-eyed, and barely the size of a golf ball the deep sea just got adorably creepy.
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    Flowers Have Been Blooming On Earth For 2 Million Years Longer Than We Thought
    It gives you a whole new respect for the bouquets at your next festive occasion.
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