The Temple of Artemis, one of the largest sanctuaries in Jerash, is dedicated to the city's protector goddess. It was surrounded by a temenos and enclosed by a portico supported by 36 columns lengthways and 26 columns across. The sacred way (le cardo maximus) added to the impact of the scene. At the centre, the temple itself stands on a podium. A modern staircase gives access to the cella preceded by twelve 13m-high columns, only one of which is absent. The central niche in the far wall would have housed a statue of Artemis.