1. Site Selection: The first step in building a Greek temple was selecting the site. The location was carefully chosen based on religious, topographical, and practical considerations, such as the temple's alignment with the sun, the presence of sacred springs, and the convenience of access.
2. Planning: Once the site was selected, the architect would draw up detailed plans for the temple. These plans included the dimensions, proportions, and layout of the temple, as well as the arrangement of columns, pediments, and other architectural features.
3. Gathering Materials: The next step was to gather the necessary materials for construction. These included limestone or marble blocks for the walls and columns, wooden beams for the roof, tiles for the roof covering, and other materials such as bronze, iron, and paint.
4. Quarrying and Transport: Limestone or marble blocks were quarried from nearby hills and transported to the construction site. This was a challenging task, as some of the blocks could weigh several tons.
5. Foundation: The foundation of the temple was constructed using large, irregularly shaped stones. These were laid in several courses, providing a stable base for the temple structure.
6. Wall Construction: The walls of the temple were built using large rectangular blocks of stone. The blocks were carefully cut and fitted together without the use of mortar.
7. Column Erection: The columns of the temple were constructed separately from the walls. Each column consisted of several cylindrical sections (drums) that were stacked on top of each other. The drums were grooved to ensure stability, and they were lifted into place using pulleys and other lifting mechanisms.
8. Roof Construction: The roof of the temple was typically made of wooden beams covered with terracotta tiles. The tiles were arranged in an overlapping pattern to prevent water from seeping into the temple.
9. Pediments and Sculptures: The pediments (triangular areas above the entablature) were often decorated with sculptures depicting mythological scenes or religious stories. These sculptures were carved by skilled craftsmen and added after the main temple structure was completed.
10. Finishing Touches: The final stage of construction involved adding decorative elements such as paint, moldings, and metal ornaments to the temple. The temple might also be embellished with statues and altars within the sacred precinct.
The construction of Greek temples was a collaborative effort involving architects, engineers, craftsmen, and laborers. The process could take several years, and the resulting temples were often impressive architectural masterpieces that showcased the skill and artistry of the Greek builders.