One of the best preserved ancient temples in Greece, the Temple of Hephaestus is dedicated to Hephaestus, the ancient god of fire, and Athena, the goddess of pottery and handicrafts. According to archaeologists, it was built around 450 BC, and is a classic example of Dorian architecture. Designed by Iktinus, one of the talented architects, the temple has 6 columns on the east and west sides, and 13 on the north and south sides. Its friezes and other decorations have been badly damaged by earthquakes and invasions over the past centuries.