The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was one of the largest and most architecturally ambitious sanctuaries in the ancient world. Originally built in the 6th century BCE under the direction of the Cretan architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes, and later reconstructed after its destruction in 356 BCE, the final temple stood as a double peripteral Ionic structure, meaning it was surrounded by two rows of columns on all four sides. The temple was approximately 115 meters long and 55 meters wide, dwarfing other contemporary temples of the time. 

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The final structure was raised on a large marble platform with multiple steps, elevating the sanctuary physically and symbolically above the civic space around it. Visitors would approach the temple from the east, where a grand stairway and open forecourt led into the temple. There were 127 Ionic columns, each standing about 18 meters in height, many of which were elaborately carved with sculptural reliefs at their bases — a rare feature that added layers of narrative and symbolism to the architecture.

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At the heart of the temple stood the cella, the inner chamber where the cult statue of Artemis was housed. Unlike typical Greek temples, the layout of the Artemision prioritized a longer, narrower cella that extended lengthwise along the central axis. Adjacent to the cella was a small inner shrine, believed to be the original core of the sanctuary and possibly the site of a sacred spring or earlier Anatolian altar. This space was traditionally off-limits, reserved for the most sacred rites and priestly access.

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The entablature of the temple featured ornate sculptural decoration, and friezes and pediments were painted, depicting mythological scenes.​ The surrounding sanctuary precinct, included structures such as treasuries, altars, and stoas. These supported the day-to-day functions of the cult and provided space for the storage of offerings, administrative work, and ritual preparation.