Acadean Temple of Othior

Wherever the acadean pantheon is worshipped, temples of the gods are found. One of the most interesting and impressive temple structures is the temple of Othior that once belonged to the city of Acadea on the shores of the Sea of Fire. Unlike the rest of the city, the temple miraculously survived the volcanic eruptions and earthquakes that razed the city and led to the fall of the Acadean Empire. It can still be visited, but is not used as a temple anymore.

Originally, the temple complex was built in honour of Othior, the acadean god of the afterlife, and used for funeral rites. The architecture of this specific complex is quite unique and impressive. While the buildings are imposing in size but otherwise look quite simplistic, the inside is an entirely different story. With intricate mosaic floors, walls decorated with reliefs, bones and precious stones and painted ceilings, the interior is quite stunning. The reliefs and paintings depict Othior, the passing into the afterlife and other myths related to death. The further one enters into the temple, the more elaborate the designs become.

The priests, just like in every other temple of Othior, were charged with leading these rites, designed to ease the passing of the spirit to the afterlife. Additionally, the temple was visited in for mourning and rememberance and to contact deceased ancestors for advice and prophecy. According to acadean mythology, the time of year in which darkness outweighs light is the time where it is easier to communicate with the dead, who's spirits can only prevail in the shadows. Particularly Othior's sacred day, the winter solstice and shortest day of the year, communication with the dead is considered the easiest. Therefore, it is tradition that on this day, people come to temples of Othior to seek advice and prophecy from their ancestors.

Type

Temple / Religious complex