Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia Archaeological Site

The Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia is an ancient religious site located at the area of classical Sparta in Laconia, Peloponnese, dedicated to the goddess Artemis in her local cult form Orthia. Archaeological remains include temple foundations, altars, and extensive votive deposits uncovered during excavations.

The site is notable for material evidence and literary accounts of rites associated with initiation and civic religion in Sparta; finds include terracotta figurines and offerings representing centuries of ritual activity. Excavations in the 20th century exposed much of the sanctuary area and its archaeological sequence.

The sanctuary sits in the Eurotas valley near the modern town of Sparta and is visited as part of the archaeological landscape of ancient Laconia.

• Votive deposits: Dedicated to Artemis Orthia, the site yielded large quantities of votive offerings and figurines during 20th-century excavations.

The Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia is at the archaeological area in modern Sparti (Laconia). Intercity KTEL coaches run from Athens (Kifissos bus station) to Sparti in roughly 3.5-4 hours; from Sparti town center the site is a short taxi ride or a brief local walk. If driving from Athens, follow the A7 (E65) motorway south toward Sparta and then local roads into town.

• Visit the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia together with the Archaeological Museum of Sparta - many of the site's best finds are housed in the museum, which gives important context for the modest remains on-site.
• Go outside the peak summer months or later in the afternoon to avoid the hottest hours; the archaeological area is largely exposed and easier to explore comfortably in cooler parts of the day.