Vogue Italia September 2025 Fashion Sculptures in Tempio di Hera Metaponto AOC Fashion

Models Caitlin Soetendal and Penelope Ternes are styled by Luca Galasso in ‘Mater(i)a Scultorea, sculptural fashion pieces from Chanel, Maison Alaia, Simone Rocha and more lensed by Andrew Jacobs [IG] for Vogue Italia [IG] September 2025./ Hair by Dre Demry Sanders; makeup by Michaela Bosch

The Greeks in Southern Italy

The fashion shoot takes place at Metaponto, located in the fertile region of Basilicata in southern Italy, an area that traces its origins to ancient Greek colonization during the 7th century BCE.

Metaponto As a Cultural Center

Metaponto quickly became part of the network of Greek polities in Magna Graecia, a term used to describe the cluster of wealthy and influential Greek colonies in southern Italy. The city became a cultural center, attracting philosophers and artists. Pythagoras himself is said to have spent time in Metaponto, further elevating its status. Over time, Metaponto developed into a significant and thriving city, integral to the overarching narrative of Greek colonization and cultural exchange in the Mediterranean region and across southern Italy.

Central to the city's religious and civic life was the impressive sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, known as the Tempio di Hera. This temple, along with others in the region, underscored the settlers' commitment to preserving their Hellenic identity and religious practices.

Tempio di Hera in Metaponto

The Tempio di Hera was an essential part of the network of sanctuaries spread across Magna Graecia, fostering a shared religious and cultural identity among the Greek colonies in the region. Pilgrims and travelers from different parts of the Greek world visited the Tempio di Hera, facilitating cultural exchange and trade connections. This interaction helped integrate the colonies into the wider Hellenic world.

Roman Influence In Greece: Reverence to Military Conquest

The establishment and growth of Roman influence in Greece was a gradual process marked by a blend of military conquest, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Initially, the Romans viewed Greece with a degree of reverence due to its rich cultural heritage. However, strategic interests soon dictated a more assertive approach. The pivotal moment came during the Macedonian Wars in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, where Rome systematically dismantled the power of Macedonian kings, wielding their military might to assert dominance.