Crepidoma

However, exceptions are common: For example, the Heraion at Olympia features only two steps[4]: 64 , and the Olympeion at Agrigento, Sicily has four[4]: 90 .

Each level of crepidoma typically decreases in size incrementally going upwards, forming a series of steps along all or some sides of the building[citation needed].

The crepidoma rests on the euthynteria (Ancient Greek: ἡ εὐθυντηρία) or foundation[3]: 41 , which historically was constructed of locally available stone for the sake of economy[citation needed].

On some temples, the steps extend only across the front façade, or they may wrap around the sides for a short distance, a detail that is called a return, as seen at the Sanctuary of Despoina at Lycosoura.

The lower margins of each level of the crepidoma blocks are often cut back in a series of two or three steps to create shadow lines; this decorative technique is termed a reveal[citation needed].