The temple of Ephesus, built after the model of Karnac, was looked upon as the greatest of the "Seven wonders of the world."

Its interior length was 425 feet, its breadth 290 feet; its roof was supported by 127 richly sculptured pillars, each the life-work of a king.

Originally erected by Ctesiphon, it was enlarged and enriched by every succeeding prince.

On the day that Alexander the Great was born, Erostratus tried to destroy it by fire, and partly succeeded; the Ephesians rebuilt it and the world at large contributed to its restoration. Some years later Alexander the Great commanded his engineers to improve and beautify it.

At the entrance to this famous temple was placed the "Altar of Sacrifice." In the Adytum was a second altar, the "Altar of sweet herbs." At the entrance to the Penetralia was a third, the "Altar of sweet incense," on which only the richest and most costly perfumes were placed. The statue of Diana was behind purple curtains.