Greek Sanctuaries Flashcards
What is a Greek sanctuary?
A sacred space serving as a point of contact between humans and deities, playing roles in religious, political, social, and economic contexts.
Greek sanctuaries are multidimensional institutions that cater to the needs of communities and the Greek city-state.
What is a temenos?
A demarcated sacred area set apart from the profane world, marking the boundary of the sanctuary.
The temenos can be marked by walls, natural elements, or symbolic markers.
What is the function of an altar in a Greek sanctuary?
It serves as the indispensable point of contact with the divine, used for offerings such as incense and animal sacrifices.
Types of altars include bomos, eschara, and bothros.
True or False: Every Greek sanctuary includes a temple.
False.
While often present, a temple is not a necessary component of every sanctuary.
What role do ritual actions play in sanctuaries?
They facilitate communication between humans and gods, emphasizing communal and religious unity.
Rituals can include purification, initiation, and sacrifices.
What is asylia in the context of Greek sanctuaries?
The concept of inviolability that guarantees safe conduct for individuals crossing city-state boundaries.
It provides refuge for suppliants seeking protection.
List three cultural significances of Greek sanctuaries.
- Strengthening communal identity
- Providing spaces for social gatherings
- Fostering cultural exchange
Festivals and competitions held at sanctuaries reinforce social bonds.
How do sanctuaries function as economic hubs?
They centralize wealth and manage resources for communal use, often serving as sites of trade and commerce.
Sanctuaries accumulate wealth through donations, rents, and taxes.
What political messages can be conveyed through Greek sanctuaries?
They showcase the power and unity of the community through monumental altars and sacrifices.
Temples can serve as political statements as well.
What are urban sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries located within city walls that are closely tied to the identity and governance of the city.
Examples include the Acropolis in Athens.
What distinguishes extra-urban sanctuaries from urban ones?
They are located outside city walls but near major roads, serving local and territorial needs.
Examples include The Heraion of Samos and Heraion of Argos.
Fill in the blank: Panhellenic sanctuaries such as Delphi and Olympia _______.
played roles in unifying Greeks across city-states.
They served as venues for political meetings and cultural events.
Describe the evolution of Greek sanctuaries.
They evolved from simple altars to monumental complexes by the 7th-6th centuries BC.
Architectural elements developed alongside the economic and political growth of poleis.
How did the placement of sanctuaries change over time?
Sanctuaries could change from border sanctuaries to extramural or urban sanctuaries based on community needs.
Their size and relationship to surrounding settlements could also evolve.
What are some types of structures found in Greek sanctuaries?
- Stoas
- Treasuries
- Fountains
- Hestiatoria
- Perirranterion
These structures serve various social, political, and religious functions.
True or False: The altar is considered a secondary structure in a Greek sanctuary.
False.
The altar is the sine qua non, essential for the sanctuary’s function.
What is the significance of communal identity in Greek sanctuaries?
They reinforce collective identity and social bonds through rituals and festivals.
Sanctuaries serve as venues for artistic and athletic competitions.
What is the role of sanctuaries in political life?
They act as markers of territory and demonstrate control over regions, influencing local politics.
Monumental structures within sanctuaries can convey political unity.
What are rural sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries located in the countryside, often near natural features, for worship and offerings.
Eleusis is a notable example.
What is the defining characteristic of a Greek sanctuary?
A Greek sanctuary is a sacred space centered around an altar.
What are the compulsory elements of a Greek sanctuary?
The compulsory elements include the temenos and the altar.
What is a temenos?
A temenos is a demarcated sacred area set apart from the profane world.
What is the role of the altar in a Greek sanctuary?
The altar is the essential element and the indispensable point of contact with the divine.
What are the complementary elements of a Greek sanctuary?
Complementary elements may include temples, propylon, stoa, treasuries, fountains, storage spaces, hestiatorion, sacred ways, perirranterion, non-built areas, and sacred groves.
What is the purpose of a temple in a Greek sanctuary?
Temples house the cult statue of the deity and can serve as a repository for offerings.
What is a propylon?
A propylon is a monumental gateway marking the transition from the profane to the sacred space.
What is the function of a stoa in a Greek sanctuary?
A stoa is a multi-purpose structure used for shelter, gatherings, and display of dedications.
What are treasuries in a Greek sanctuary?
Treasuries are small, ornate buildings housing valuable offerings.
What is the purpose of fountains and water features in a Greek sanctuary?
They provide water for ritual purification, drinking, and other needs.
What is the function of storage spaces in a Greek sanctuary?
Storage spaces are used for storing sacrificial tools, votives, and other ritual necessities.
What is an hestiatorion?
An hestiatorion is a building dedicated to consuming ritual meals after sacrifices.
What are sacred ways?
Sacred ways are processional paths often adorned with votive offerings.
What is a perirranterion?
A perirranterion is a basin near entrances for ritual purification.
What are non-built areas in a Greek sanctuary?
Non-built areas are spaces for processions and rituals.
What are sacred groves?
Sacred groves may form part of the sanctuary, sometimes with an altar.
How can sanctuaries vary in structure?
Sanctuaries can be simple, with only the cultic area, or composite, including secondary non-essential buildings.
What is the difference between inner and outer precincts in a sanctuary?
The inner precinct contains the altar and temple, while the outer precinct is for subsidiary structures.
Are temples compulsory in a Greek sanctuary?
No, while temples are often conspicuous, they are not compulsory; the altar is the key necessary element.
What are the main types of sanctuaries in the Hellenic world?
Urban, extra-urban, rural, and Panhellenic sanctuaries
These types are categorized by their location and role in the Greek world.
Where are urban sanctuaries typically located?
Within the city, often at the center or on a hilltop
Urban sanctuaries serve as ‘national monuments’ and are central to civic life.
What is a key function of urban sanctuaries?
Representing the power, wealth, and skill of the city
They are integrated into the urban fabric of the polis.
Provide examples of urban sanctuaries.
- Temples on the Acropolis of Athens
- Temple of Athena at Priene
- Temple of Apollo at Corinth
- Athenian agora
These examples emphasize the public and political role of these sanctuaries.
Where are extra-urban sanctuaries typically situated?
Outside the urban center, in the countryside or mountainous areas
Administered by the city-state, they act as regional centers for cult worship.
What function do extra-urban sanctuaries serve?
Marking or expanding the territorial influence of the city
They unite the rural population under a national cult.
Give examples of extra-urban sanctuaries.
- Eleusis
- Sounion
- Brauron
- Apollo at Miletus
- Poseidon at Isthmia
These sites were significant for Panathenaic festivals and other religious activities.
What defines rural sanctuaries?
Located in rural areas, addressing local and territorial needs
They are often less monumental than urban or extra-urban sanctuaries.
What is a notable feature of rural sanctuaries?
Often located near springs or other natural features
They may be associated with initiation rituals.
What characterizes Panhellenic sanctuaries?
Attracting worshipers from across the Greek world
They serve as venues for political meetings and expressions of unity.
What types of competitions do Panhellenic sanctuaries feature?
Athletic and artistic competitions
Initially tied to hero cults and monumentalized with various structures.
List examples of Panhellenic sanctuaries.
- Sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia
- Apollo at Delphi
- Poseidon at Isthmia
- Zeus at Nemea
- Delos
- Dodona
These sanctuaries have a cosmopolitan character and are not tied to any one polis.
What are hero cult sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries dedicated to heroes
They contribute to the identity and cohesion of Greek communities.
What is the function of sanctuaries with mystery cults?
Associated with secret religious rituals
They may indicate a retreat of worshipers, especially during initiation rituals.
What are state sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries controlled by a specific state
Examples include Perachora, Philia, and the Samian Heraion.
What is the purpose of sanctuaries with asylum function?
Provided refuge for suppliants
They had the right of asylia and were often located in remote areas.
What role do sanctuaries play as therapeutic centers?
Serve as therapeutic and religious centers
Example includes the Sanctuary of Asclepius.
How do sanctuaries function as economic hubs?
Play a key role in the economic and political framework of the polis
They often attract visitors and pilgrims, generating economic activity.
What political functions do sanctuaries serve?
Places for political meetings and decision-making
They can act as neutral grounds for discussions among city-states.
True or False: All Greek sanctuaries are tied to a single city-state.
False
Panhellenic sanctuaries, for example, are not tied to any one polis.
What was the primary purpose of rituals performed in Greek sanctuaries?
To interact with or communicate with the gods and goddesses
What is a central ritual practice in Greek sanctuaries?
Sacrifice
What items were commonly offered during sacrifices in Greek sanctuaries?
- Animals
- Incense
- Cakes
- Blood
- Other liquids
What types of deities could sacrifices be performed for?
- Olympian deities
- Chthonic deities
What is a votive offering?
Durable gifts made to the gods to seek favor or express thanks
What materials could votive offerings include?
- Jewelry
- Vases
- Tools
- Weapons
- Armor
What was the ritual act of pouring liquids, such as wine, called?
Libations
What role do prayers play in Greek rituals?
A form of communication with the gods, often performed with other rituals
What are processions (pompai) in the context of Greek sanctuaries?
Common ritual activities involving a journey from the city to the sanctuary
What type of building was sometimes constructed for ritual dining?
Hestiatoria
What was the purpose of purification rituals in Greek sanctuaries?
To perform ritual cleansing
What significant life transitions were marked by rites of passage in sanctuaries?
- Birth
- Marriage
- Death
What was the function of oracles in some Greek sanctuaries?
To provide guidance from the gods
Which deity was associated with healing rituals in Greek sanctuaries?
Asclepius
What types of competitions were hosted in Panhellenic sanctuaries?
- Athletic
- Musical
What are mysteries in the context of Greek sanctuaries?
Secret initiation rituals associated with mystery cults
What distinguishes public rituals from private rituals in Greek sanctuaries?
Public rituals involve community participation, while private rituals are performed by individuals or small groups
What is the central location for sacrifices in Greek sanctuaries?
Altar
Where could some rituals take place within a temple?
In the peristyle or inside the temple
What are sacred ways in Greek sanctuaries?
Paths along which processions and other ritual activities took place
What natural features were sometimes incorporated into rural sanctuaries?
- Springs
- Caves
True or False: The rituals in Greek sanctuaries were solely focused on individual worship.
False
Fill in the blank: Rituals in Greek sanctuaries were central to both _______ and civic life.
[personal]
What were the motivations for offering gifts to the gods in Greek sanctuaries?
- Gratitude
- Seeking Favors
- Timē (Honor)
- Charis (Gratitude)
- Chreia (Need)
- Display of Wealth and Status
- Commemoration
- Personal Piety
Each motivation reflects a different aspect of the relationship between the donor and the divine.
What are some examples of personal items offered as votive gifts?
- Jewelry
- Clothing and textiles
- Cosmetics and containers
- Tools and equipment
- Toys
- Weapons and Armor
- Miniatures
- Hair
- Seashells
Personal items reflected the everyday lives of individuals and their devotion.
True or False: Votive offerings were exclusively expensive and elaborate items.
False
Votive offerings varied significantly, including both simple and elaborate items.
What types of figurines and statues were common votive offerings?
- Terracotta figurines
- Bronze figurines
- Kouroi and Korai
- Statues (made of marble, terracotta, wood, chryselephantine)
These items often represented various subjects and were dedicated to honor the gods.
Fill in the blank: Votive offerings could be either _______ (designed specifically for dedication) or _______ (items used in daily life before dedication).
[purpose-made] and [secular]
This distinction highlights the variety in the nature of offerings.
What were some types of vessels and containers dedicated to the gods?
- Ceramic vases
- Metal vessels (bronze, silver, gold)
- Phialai
These items were often used for ritual purposes.
What were some of the materials used for votive offerings?
- Clay
- Wood
- Bronze
- Iron
- Gold
- Silver
- Ivory
- Stone
The variety of materials indicates the range of resources available to individuals.
What function did inscribed dedications serve in votive offerings?
They commemorated the act of giving and publicly advertised the donor’s piety.
Inscriptions often included the name of the donor and the deity.
What role did food and drink play in Greek votive offerings?
- Organic items like flowers, fruits, food, cakes, and bread
- First-fruit offerings
While less durable, these offerings were an important aspect of worship.
How did votive offerings serve as a display of wealth and status?
The value of the gift reflected the donor’s prestige.
Wealthy individuals often dedicated more elaborate offerings to demonstrate their social standing.
What were the roles of architectural elements in votive offerings?
Individuals contributed to the building of temples and treasuries.
This reflected both piety and social status within the community.
What is the central element of Greek ritual practice?
Animal sacrifice (thusia)
This practice involved the selection, consecration, killing, division, and burning of certain parts of a domestic animal.
What was the purpose of animal sacrifice in Greek rituals?
To define the relationship between humanity and the divine, as well as social relationships
It also reinforced collective identity and social bonds.
What are the main types of deities to which sacrifices were offered?
- Olympian deities
- Chthonic deities
What does the term ‘thusia’ refer to?
The act of animal sacrifice
What specific steps are involved in the sacrificial process?
- Preparation of the animal
- Cutting of its throat
- Removal of thigh bones
- Burning of bones and fat
What is a hecatomb?
A large-scale sacrifice involving the offering of one hundred animals
True or False: The altar is considered the most important element of the Greek sanctuary.
True
What are the different types of altars used in Greek sacrifices?
- Bomos
- Eschara
- Bothros
What role does the altar play in the sacrificial process?
- Location for offerings
- Burning of animal parts
- Ritual killing
- Pouring of libations
Fill in the blank: The altar served as the indispensable point of contact between _______ and the divine.
mortal worshippers
What are some examples of libations poured on the altar?
- Wine
- Honey
- Milk
What was the symbolic importance of the altar in Greek rituals?
- Communication point between humans and gods
- Place for seeking refuge and asylum
- Definition of sacred space
What was the significance of the burning of the animal’s tail?
It was a way to take omens
What variations exist in the use of altars depending on the deity being honored?
- Bomos for Olympian gods
- Bothros for chthonic deities
- Hearth (hestia) for some offerings
What additional elements often accompanied animal sacrifice in Greek rituals?
- Processions (pompe)
- Prayers
- Hymns
- Dance
- Competition (agon)
How did the physical presence of the altar influence Greek religious rituals?
It was essential to the proper conduct of rituals and served as a focus in art and literature
The presence of an altar in art creates a religious space for rituals.
What is a procession in Greek sacrificial practices?
A formal parade of participants, sometimes including the sacrificial animal, moving towards the altar or sanctuary
Known as a pompe, it marks the transition from the ordinary to the sacred and can be a significant public event.
What preparations were made for the sacrificial animal?
The animal was adorned, sometimes washed, and led to the altar
This could include adorning the animal with fillets and gilding its horns.
Who typically performed the ritual slaughter of the sacrificial animal?
A priest or a designated individual
The throat of the animal was usually pierced or cut.
What was the significance of the blood offering in sacrificial practices?
The blood was collected and poured onto the altar as an offering of life to the gods
Blood was also used in purification rites.
What parts of the animal were typically burned on the altar?
Fat, bones, and sometimes the tail
The smoke from the burning was considered the gods’ share of the sacrifice.
What was the purpose of taking omens during sacrifices?
To observe signs from the fire and burnt offerings indicating the gods’ will and acceptance
Signs included the curving of the animal’s tail in the fire and inspecting organs.
What were libations in the context of Greek sacrifices?
Liquids such as wine, honey, or milk poured onto the altar as offerings to the gods
Libations were a common part of the sacrificial ritual.
How was the remaining meat handled after sacrifices?
The meat was prepared for consumption and shared according to social and cultic hierarchy
A portion was often reserved for the priest, and a ritual meal might be included.
What were the goals of purification rituals in sacrificial practices?
To cleanse miasma (pollution) and prepare participants for the sacred event
This could involve washing before entering a sanctuary or sacrificing a piglet.
What are vows in the context of sacrifices?
Promises made to a deity in exchange for a desired outcome
If the outcome was realized, the promised offering would be made.
What is an example of a specialized action in some sacrificial rituals?
Burning a piglet whole or using a ram’s skin as a seat for initiates
These actions highlight the diversity in ritual practices.
True or False: The actions performed during sacrificial practices were solely physical procedures.
False
They were infused with symbolic meaning aimed at establishing relationships between humans and the divine.
What was considered the most essential element of a Greek sanctuary?
The altar
The altar served as the primary point of communication between mortals and the divine.
What are the three main types of altars found in Greek sanctuaries?
Bomos, Eschara, Bothros
Each type has distinct characteristics and purposes.
Define Bomos in the context of Greek altars.
Built altars ranging from simple platforms to complex structures
Typically used for sacrifices to Olympian gods.
What materials were Bomoi often constructed from?
Stone, sometimes marble, and ash
They could also be decorated with sculptural reliefs.
Where were Bomoi typically located in relation to temples?
In front of the temple with an east-west orientation
This orientation allowed the cult statue a direct view of the sacrifices.
What political significance could monumental Bomoi convey?
They could celebrate military victories
An example is the Altar of Zeus at Pergamon.
Define Eschara in the context of Greek altars.
Shallow pits or built structures often associated with hero cults
They could be made of stone and sometimes interpreted as a ‘hearth’.
What were Bothroi used for?
Offerings to chthonic deities or underworld gods
These offerings could include blood sacrifices and libations.
What is a notable feature of portable altars?
They are small and transportable
Often used in domestic settings.
What is a simple fire pit in the context of Greek altars?
A pit in the ground used for burning offerings
It represents a basic form of altar.
What additional features could altars sometimes include?
Bases for cult images
These features enhanced the functionality of the altars.
What types of tools were stored near altars?
Sacrificial tools
These implements were used in the sacrifices.
What was the purpose of ritual basins (perirrhanterion) near altars?
Used for purification before rituals
Essential for maintaining ritual cleanliness.
What function did drainage conduits serve on altars?
To collect blood or liquids from sacrifices
This helped manage the aftermath of rituals.
What architectural embellishments could be found on altars?
Friezes, volutes, palmettes, garlands, boukrania, and figures
These decorations enhanced the visual appeal of altars.
What is one of the design considerations for altars?
Related to the deity being honored and the specific ritual
The altar’s design often reflects the nature of the worship.
True or False: The primary function of altars was solely for sacrifice.
False
Altars could also have additional meanings or associations.
What is a hecatomb?
A large-scale sacrifice, traditionally involving the slaughter of 100 oxen, but can refer to any large animal sacrifice.
The term ‘hecatomb’ originates from ancient Greek rituals and signifies significant sacrificial events.
What role did altars play in Greek sanctuaries?
Altars were fundamental elements, serving as focal points for sacrifices and communication between mortals and the divine.
Sanctuaries were defined as sacred spaces centered around an altar, often including other sacred elements like trees, stones, or springs.
What are hestiatoria?
Dining rooms specifically dedicated to consuming ritual meals after sacrifices, often limited in capacity.
Hestiatoria reflected social hierarchies, as only a privileged inner circle could partake of the food.
How did hestiatoria evolve over time?
They transformed from multifunctional spaces into specialized structures with additional rooms for cooking, storage, and cleaning.
The evolution mirrored sociopolitical changes in Greek society.
What influenced the spatial organization of sanctuaries?
The need for ritual dining space, presence of altars, and temples influenced the development of sanctuary architecture.
Spatial organization often included built and non-built areas to accommodate rituals and gatherings.
What characterized the inner precinct of a sanctuary?
It typically included the altar, temple, and votive offerings, separated from the outer precinct.
Separation could be achieved by walls, terraces, or natural terrain.
What were processional ways in sanctuaries?
Paths, such as the Sacred Way, important for connecting the sanctuary to the city and organizing space within.
Votive statues and smaller buildings were often oriented toward these roads.
True or False: Sanctuaries served only religious purposes.
False.
They also held political, social, and economic significance, serving as places for social gatherings and communal meals.
Fill in the blank: The evolution of hestiatoria corresponds with the _______ of Greek society.
sociopolitical changes.
This includes the transition from the height of the polis to the centralized power of Hellenistic monarchies.
How did the size of a sanctuary change?
It expanded based on the need for space and its relationship to surrounding settlements.
The presence of structures like dining rooms depended on the sanctuary’s function and popularity.
What types of activities occurred in sanctuaries?
Rituals, processions, communal meals, and social gatherings.
Sanctuaries often included spaces for slaughtering and feasting, facilitating interaction between humans and deities.
What is the significance of large-scale sacrifices like hecatombs to sanctuaries?
They emphasized the need for different areas and structures within a sanctuary, influencing spatial needs.
The scale of animal sacrifice would necessitate a clear organization of space for elaborate rituals.
What is a temenos?
A temenos is a sacred, demarcated space dedicated to divine beings or hero cults, where contact with the divine is possible.
The term comes from the Greek word temnō, meaning ‘to cut’, reflecting the separation of a piece of land from ordinary use.
What are the key characteristics of a temenos?
- Boundaries
- Purpose
- Essential elements
- Spatial organization
- Variations
Each characteristic contributes to the sacred nature of the temenos.
What types of boundaries can define a temenos?
- Peribolos Walls
- Boundary Stones (Horoi)
- Symbolic Markers
These boundaries separate the sacred space from the profane world.
What is the primary purpose of a temenos?
To create a space where contact with the divine is possible through religious activities such as sacrifices, rituals, and dedications.
What is the most important element typically found in a temenos?
An altar, as it is the main point of contact with the divine.
How is a temenos often organized?
To facilitate ritual practices and processions, including both built and unbuilt areas.
What is an example of a temenos in ancient Greece?
The temenos of Demeter and Kore at Eleusis, which included massive fortification walls.
What notable features were included in the temenos at Olympia?
- Temples
- Treasuries
- Pelopion (a heroon dedicated to Pelops)
These features served to honor the gods and facilitate worship.
What is a propylon in the context of a temenos?
A monumental gateway that marks the entrance to the sacred area, emphasizing the transition from the profane to the sacred.
Fill in the blank: Purification was a key practice before entering a _______.
[temenos]
True or False: Weapons of war were permitted within a temenos.
False
What were common practices associated with a temenos?
- Purification
- Prohibitions
- Processions
- Sacrifice
- Asylum
- Hero cults
- Dedication
These practices helped maintain the sacred nature of the space.
What type of architectural features might be found within a temenos?
- Stoas
- Treasuries
These features provided space for gatherings and housed valuable offerings.
What does the term ‘hero cults’ refer to in relation to a temenos?
Cults associated with heroes and ancestor veneration, contributing to community identity and cohesion.
What is the significance of votive offerings in a temenos?
They are displays of devotion and gratitude placed within the sacred space.
What were hero cults in ancient Greek religion?
Hero cults involved the veneration of deceased mortals believed to possess superhuman power and the ability to influence the living.
What is the origin of hero cults?
Hero cults evolved from ancestor worship, reflecting a belief in the continued existence and power of the dead.
When did the practice of venerating heroes become widespread?
The practice became more widespread in the 8th century BC.
What influenced the characteristics of hero cults?
Local traditions and needs often shaped the characteristics of hero cults.
What is the ambiguity of status in hero cults?
Heroes occupied an ambiguous position between mortals and gods, often described as semi-divine (hēmitheoi).
What was the central idea behind hero cults?
The dead retained agency and power, affecting the lives of the living.
How did hero cults reinforce local identity?
They celebrated community founders and connected the community to its past and mythical lineage.
What role did hero cults play in social cohesion?
Rituals and practices associated with hero cults strengthened social bonds within the community.
What was the purpose of hero cults in terms of commemoration?
Hero cults served as a means of commemorating and perpetuating the memory of the dead.
Fill in the blank: Hero cults functioned as intermediaries between the living and _______.
[the gods]
What are some common features of rituals in hero cults?
Rituals often included sacrifices, communal meals, votive offerings, and processions.
What is the eschara altar?
A low altar with a hearth frequently used in hero cults for sacrifices.
Who was Heracles in the context of hero cults?
Heracles was worshipped as a hero with aspects of both divine and heroic worship.
Who were the Oikistai?
Colony founders often venerated as heroes.
What was significant about the tomb of Battos of Kyrene?
It was located in the agora, with a nearby hero-shrine.
What role did games play in hero cults?
Some hero cults included the periodic repetition of ‘funeral games’.
How did hero cults reflect social stratification?
They sometimes reflected social hierarchies, with elites promoting their own members as powerful dead.
What was the significance of hero cults in community identity?
They helped to establish and reinforce the identity of the community and its connection to the past.
True or False: Hero cults were only a religious practice.
False
What is one interpretation of hero cults among scholars?
They explored connections to epic poetry and their role in political and social competition.
Fill in the blank: By the 4th century BC, there was a growing expectation that individuals might enjoy _______ status in the afterlife.
[hero-like or god-like]
Who was Anios of Delos?
A priest-king revered as the Archegete (Founder) of the island.
What was unique about the hero cult established by Epikteta of Thera?
It was hereditary, with a charter document modeled on civic decrees.
What is a propylon?
A monumental gateway that marks the entrance to a sanctuary
What is the primary purpose of a propylon?
Marking the transition from the profane to the sacred
List three purposes of a propylon.
- Emphasizing the importance of the sanctuary and the deities within
- Serving as a visual introduction to the grandeur and sanctity of the space
- Control of access and flow of people
True or False: A propylon provides a sense of preparation and anticipation for rituals within the sanctuary.
True
What does a propylon express about civic identity?
It reflects the wealth and social status of the polis or community that built it
What is the significance of the Propylaia of the Athenian Acropolis?
It was designed to receive the Panathenaic procession and marks the transition between the secular and the holy
What architectural styles are mixed in the Propylaia of the Athenian Acropolis?
- Doric
- Ionic
Fill in the blank: The Propylaia has a central gate with a _______ facade.
hexastyle Doric
What unique feature does the Propylon of Demeter Malophoros at Selinous have?
It is square in plan
What is significant about the dimensions of the Propylon of Demeter Malophoros?
It is 27 Doric-feet square, a Pythagorean number
What type of buildings are the South and East Propyla at the Sanctuary of Artemis at Samos?
Purely Ionic buildings
Describe the architectural features of the Propylon at Pergamon.
It had an innovative two-tiered stoa with a frieze of garlands and bucrania
What inscription is found on the propylon’s architrave at Pergamon?
King Eumenes [dedicated this] to Athena Nikephoros
What dramatic feature does the Propylon of Ptolemy II at Samothrace exhibit?
It diverts the stream into a vaulted tunnel
What architectural form does the propylon at Pisidian Antioch resemble?
A triumphal arch
What historical document is displayed at the propylon of Pisidian Antioch?
A copy of Augustus’ Res Gestae
What is the overall role of a propylon in Greek sanctuaries?
It marks the transition from the mundane world to the sacred space
What is a stoa?
A freestanding building, typically long and narrow, with a colonnade on at least one side.
List some functions of stoas.
- Shelter and gathering place
- Commercial activity
- Display of dedications and inscriptions
- Public offices and administration
- Dining and banqueting
- Philosophical discussions
- Framing and defining space
- Processional routes
- Storage
- Backdrops for public speaking
- Theatrical storage
True or False: Stoas were primarily used for economic activities.
False
What was the Stoa Basileios used for?
It served as the office of the royal archon.
Fill in the blank: Stoas provided shelter from _______.
[sun, wind, and rain]
What was the Stoa Poikile known for?
It was adorned with panel paintings of mythological battles.
What type of columns did the Stoa Poikile have?
Doric columns facing south and Ionic columns on the central axis.
What significant role did the Stoa of Zeus Eleutherios play?
It contained monuments of heroic deeds.
What is unique about the Stoa of Attalos?
It was reconstructed in the 20th century to serve as a museum.
What was the function of the South Stoa I?
It had rooms used as magistrates’ offices.
What was the architectural significance of stoas in Panhellenic sanctuaries?
They offered shade, space for dedications, and a venue for public gatherings.
Fill in the blank: The East Stoa at Olympia was _______ meters long.
[212]
What was the role of stoas in the island of Delos?
They helped define the north side of Apollo’s precinct.
How did the design of stoas evolve over time?
From early simple structures to more complex buildings with multiple stories and interior colonnades.
What was the purpose of the stoas at Miletos?
They were used as an architectural frame.
True or False: Stoas served only functional purposes.
False
What did stoas symbolize in Greek cities?
Civic pride.
List some activities that expanded the use of stoas over time.
- Civic functions
- Commercial activities
- Philosophical discussions
- Theatrical storage
What was the primary religious function of Greek temples?
To house the cult statue, ensuring the divine presence within the sanctuary
The cult statue allowed the deity to observe the rituals performed at the altar.
What are some cult activities that occurred inside Greek temples?
Prayers, touching the cult statue, performances, burnt offerings
The Temple of Demeter and Kore at Eleusis was specifically designed for the rites of initiation of the Eleusinian Mysteries.
What role did Greek temples play in storing votive offerings?
Temples functioned as treasuries, storing valuable votive offerings and treasures
Items were meticulously recorded in temple inventories and often returned after festivals.
How did temples serve economic functions in ancient Greece?
As repositories for financial resources and secure locations for private deposits
Citizens paid a tithe to the sanctuary of Hera at Samos, using it as a bank.
What did Greek temples symbolize in terms of civic identity?
Community’s identity, wealth, artistic achievements, and political aspirations
Their location and expense marked them as exceptional structures demonstrating power and devotion.
What social and political gatherings occurred in early Greek temples?
Communal meals and banquets
The hestiatorion facilitated communal meals after sacrifices, reinforcing societal bonds.
What types of art and dedications were displayed inside Greek temples?
Furniture, statues, shelves, baskets, and bronze boxes
Temples contained thrones and tables, creating a space for display and commemoration.
What role did Greek temples play in memory and tradition?
Places for reception, transmission, and dissemination of ideas; repositories of memory
Used to forge identity, exert regional authority, and channel competition.
In what instances were Greek temples repurposed for administrative functions?
Some temples became repositories of city archives
The Metroön is an example of such a repurposed temple.
What types of performances were held in Greek temples?
Musical performances and other types of performances inside temples or in the peristyle
The Tholos at Epidauros may have been designed for this purpose.
Which temples were associated with healing and oracles?
Temples like the Sanctuary of Asclepius
These temples served as therapeutic and religious centers.
What was the significance of temples in connecting humans with the divine?
Facilitated human interaction with the divine through worship, celebration, and commemoration
How did the architectural style of temples evolve over time?
From simple structures to monumental buildings with distinct regional styles
What competitive role did temples play among Greek city-states?
City-states competed through the construction of elaborate temples to enhance social standing
What was the essential element of a Greek temple sanctuary?
The altar
Temples housed the cult statue, creating a focal point for ritual activity.
What is a hestiatorion?
A building within a Greek sanctuary for consuming ritual meals following sacrificial practices.
Hestiatoria facilitated communal meals after sacrifices, reinforcing societal bonds and connecting participants with the divine.
What was the primary function of a hestiatorion?
To provide a space for communal dining after sacrifices.
These meals were ritualistic and integral to the sacrificial process.
How did hestiatoria contribute to social and political cohesion?
By reinforcing civic identity and social bonds through shared meals.
Hestiatoria played a role in the social and political life of the polis.
What architectural evolution did hestiatoria undergo?
Evolved from multi-functional spaces to specialized structures.
Early temples served multiple functions, including banqueting.
What characterized hestiatoria in the Geometric period?
Early temples served multiple functions, including banqueting.
Hestiatoria evolved from these early multi-functional spaces.
What features did hestiatoria have during the Classical Age?
More complex designs with additional rooms for cooking, storage, and cleaning.
This complexity reflected the evolving needs of communal dining.
What happened to the use of hestiatoria during the Hellenistic Age?
Their use declined and were replaced by banqueting halls in royal palaces.
This shift indicates a change in social structures and practices.
What was the initial accessibility of hestiatoria?
Initially exclusive to elites.
Access expanded over time due to democratic reforms.
What did monumental hestiatoria reflect?
The wealth and civic pride of the polis.
These structures were symbols of social status and community identity.
How did the rise and decline of the hestiatorion reflect Greek society?
It mirrored sociopolitical changes, from the height of the polis to centralized power of Hellenistic monarchies.
The evolution of hestiatoria corresponds with significant historical transitions.
Name an example of a hestiatorion at a sanctuary.
Sanctuary of Hera at Perachora.
This sanctuary features early examples of dedicated dining buildings.
Which sanctuary had multiple dining halls and complementary rooms?
Sanctuary of Aphaia at Aegina.
This complex illustrates the importance of communal dining in religious practices.
How many halls did the hestiatorion at Brauron include?
Nine halls, accommodating over 100 participants.
This capacity highlights the scale of communal meals in Greek sanctuaries.
What extensive facilities did Panhellenic Sanctuaries like Isthmia have?
Extensive banqueting facilities.
These facilities were integral to the religious and social life of the community.
What is a notable feature of the prytaneion of Miletos?
It contained a civic hearth sacred to Hestia and had a structure identical to a hestiatorion.
This connection emphasizes the role of hestiatoria in civic life.
True or False: Hestiatoria were found only in significant sanctuaries.
False.
Hestiatoria have been found in various locations, including Corinth and Eleusis.
Fill in the blank: The hestiatorion’s evolution reflects the _______ dynamics of Greek society over time.
[changing]
This statement summarizes the impact of sociopolitical changes on architectural practices.
What is a temple à banquettes?
A structure that combines the functions of a temple and a dining hall, designed with benches for seating
Also known as hestiatoria.
What are the key characteristics of a temple à banquettes?
• Dual Function
• Architectural Features
• Ritual Dining
• Social and Political Implications
• Evolution Over Time
Highlights the overlap between ritual and social practices.
What does the dual function of a temple à banquettes refer to?
Served as both a sacred space and a space for communal meals
Suggests an overlap between ritual and social practices.
What architectural features are typical of a temple à banquettes?
• Built-in benches or couches along walls
• Additional rooms for cooking, storage, and cleaning
• Hearths inside for ritual meals
Benches may be made of earth, retained by stone walls.
What type of meals were typically held in a temple à banquettes?
Ritual meals, often including boiled or spit-roasted pieces from sacrificial animals
Communal dining reinforced social bonds and connected participants with the divine.
True or False: Initially, meals in temples à banquettes were exclusive to elites.
True
Participation expanded over time due to democratic reforms.
What role did the size and monumentality of temples à banquettes play?
Reflected the wealth and civic pride of the polis
They codified collective identity within the community.
How did the function of temples change over time?
• Early temples served multiple roles
• Dining functions shifted to separate structures
• Decline of hestiatoria during the Hellenistic Age
Banqueting halls in royal palaces replaced them.
Name two examples of temples à banquettes.
• Sanctuary of Hera at Perachora
• Sanctuary of Aphaia at Aegina
These are examples of early, dedicated dining buildings.
What evidence of ritual banquets was found at the temple at Kommos on Crete?
Evidence of benches and hearths
Indicates its use as a hestiatorion.
Fill in the blank: The archaic temple of Demeter at Hypsile on Andros is an unusual temple-hestiatorion with _______.
stone-built benches and tables
Highlights the integration of dining and ritual spaces.
What transformation occurred regarding the classification of early Archaic structures?
Several structures initially classified as temples have been reinterpreted as dining rooms
Indicates evolving understanding of these buildings’ functions.
What is the significance of the temple à banquettes in ancient Greece?
Highlights the close connection between religious practices and communal eating
Essential in reinforcing social and religious bonds within the community.
What does the term hekatompedon mean in relation to temples?
It means ‘hundred-footer’ and designates a monumental temple in ancient Greece.
What does the term hekatompedon signify about the size of a temple?
It signifies considerable size, reflecting the community’s economic and architectural capacity.
During which periods were hekatompeda typically built?
Geometric and Archaic periods.
What architectural transition do hekatompeda represent?
A shift from smaller, simpler structures to more elaborate, monumental forms.
What multifunctional purposes did some early hekatompeda serve?
- Ritual meals
- Storage of sacred artifacts
- Housing cult statues
What are some architectural features of hekatompeda?
- Elongated rectangular plans
- Central row of columns
- Interior benches and hearths
- Sekos as a key component
What was the symbolic importance of constructing a hekatompedon for a community?
It symbolized the community’s collective identity, wealth, and artistic capabilities.
What did hekatompeda lay the foundation for in architectural history?
More elaborate classical and Hellenistic temple architecture.
Give an example of a hekatompedon and its significance.
Heraion at Samos: The first temple of Hera, dating back to the late 8th century BC.
What are the dimensions of the sekos of the Temple of Hera at Eretria?
Approximately 34 x 7 meters.
What unique feature did the Temple of Poseidon at Isthmia have?
A sekos approximately 32 meters long with a ratio of 1:4.
True or False: The hekatompedon on the Athenian Acropolis preceded the Old Temple of Athena Polias.
True.
Fill in the blank: Hekatompeda often reflect the increasing _______ of Greek society and religion.
complexity.
List two characteristics that define hekatompeda.
- Monumental size
- Multifunctional use
What is one characteristic that was debated regarding the first Hekatompedon at Samos?
The existence of a peristyle.
What was the approximate size of the Temple at Ano Mazaraki (Rakita)?
34.40 x 11.00 meters.
What does the term sekos refer to in the context of hekatompeda?
The main chamber of the temple.
What is a xoanon?
A xoanon is the most ancient form of a Greek cult image, typically made of wood
The term literally means ‘(some)thing scraped’ or ‘wood carving’.
What materials were primarily used to make xoana?
Primarily wood, but some were made of stone or a combination of both materials
Wooden bodies with stone faces, hands, and feet were common.
How did xoana function in religious practices?
They served as the focal point of worship in temples and sanctuaries
Believed to embody the presence of the deity and were recipients of offerings and rituals.
What does the term xoanon refer to in ancient texts?
It was consistently used by Pausanias to describe wooden cult images
The meaning of the term evolved between the time of Sophocles and the 4th century BC.
What significant role did the xoanon of Athena Polias play?
It was one of Greece’s oldest cult statues, housed in shrines on the Acropolis
Women paraded it during festivals, adorning it with gold accessories.
What was the significance of the robe presented to the xoanon of Athena Polias?
The robe depicted scenes from the battle between gods and giants
It was woven by select Athenian women and presented during the Panathenaea festival.
What is an example of a xoanon recorded by Pausanias?
A xoanon of Aphrodite made of wood, with her hands, face, and feet made of stone
This illustrates the mixed material use in some xoana.
What does the grave stele of Priestess Polyxena depict?
It depicts her holding a small statuette, probably a xoanon of the divinity she served
She is shown wearing a peplos with an overfold to create a veil.
What challenges exist in identifying surviving examples of xoana?
Due to their wooden construction, no surviving wooden statues can be definitively identified as cult images
This makes it difficult to know their exact appearance.
What do literary descriptions of xoana often lack?
They are often limited and open to interpretation
Ancient authors like Pausanias provide some descriptions, but they do not offer complete clarity.
True or False: The concept of the xoanon is universally accepted by scholars.
False
Some scholars argue it is a historiographical mirage, unsupported by archaeological evidence.
Fill in the blank: A xoanon is considered among the earliest forms of _______.
[cult statues]
What is a key characteristic of Doric columns regarding their base?
Doric columns typically do not have a base and stand directly on the stylobate.
The stylobate is the top step of the temple platform.
How do Ionic columns differ from Doric columns in terms of their base?
Ionic columns rest on a molded base that may include plinth, torus, and scotia.
The Ionic base often features a convex torus and one or two concave scotiae.
Describe the fluting style of Doric columns.
Doric columns are fluted with sharp edges where the flutes meet and taper from the base to the capital.
In what way do Ionic columns differ in fluting from Doric columns?
Ionic columns have flutes separated by flat fillets, unlike the sharp arises of the Doric order.
What are the main components of a Doric capital?
A smooth, curving echinus and a square abacus.
What distinguishes the Ionic capital from the Doric capital?
The Ionic capital is more ornate, typically including a volute and moldings.
What is the typical feature of a Doric architrave?
The Doric architrave is a plain, horizontal beam that is typically undecorated.
How is the Ionic architrave structured?
The Ionic architrave is often divided into two or three flat horizontal bands.
What characterizes the Doric frieze?
The Doric frieze features alternating triglyphs and metopes.
How does the Ionic frieze differ from the Doric frieze?
The Ionic frieze is continuous and may be decorated with relief sculptures.
What is a key feature of the Doric geison?
The Doric geison has a projecting cornice decorated with a molding on the outer face.
Describe the Ionic geison.
The Ionic geison is often more ornate and includes a concave soffit and moldings.
What is the overall appearance of the Doric order?
The Doric order is more austere and masculine, focusing on strong, simple lines.
How does the Ionic order differ in overall appearance?
The Ionic order is more decorative and graceful, emphasizing ornamentation.
What type of moldings are typically used in Doric architecture?
Doric moldings are typically painted.
What is the material commonly used in Doric temple construction?
Doric temples are often constructed of limestone.
What geographical regions are associated with the Doric order?
The Doric order is associated with mainland Greece and the Greek west.
Where is the Ionic order primarily found?
The Ionic order is associated with settlements along the coast of Asia Minor.
True or False: It is common for buildings to incorporate both Doric and Ionic elements.
True.
Give an example of a building that combines Doric and Ionic elements.
The Propylaea at Athens is an example.
What is a dipteral temple?
A dipteral temple is characterized by having a double row of columns surrounding the cella, creating a wide pteron between the cella and the outer columns.
What is a pseudodipteral temple?
A pseudodipteral temple appears to have a double row of columns but has a single outer colonnade, with the inner row of columns omitted.
Name an example of a dipteral temple.
Temple of Hera at Samos
This Ionic temple had double colonnades and a total of 133 columns.
What notable feature does the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus have?
It is another example of a dipteral Ionic temple with 8 x 20 columns on the outer peristasis.
What is significant about Temple A I at Metapontum?
Planned as a large peripteral temple with a double row of columns across the front and two rows in the naos.
What distinguishes the Temple of Apollo at Didyma?
It was a dipteral temple known for its colossal scale and deep pronaos.
Provide an example of a pseudodipteral temple.
Temple of Artemis at Corfu
It is described as having a pseudo-dipteral design.
What is the ground plan design of the Temple of Bel at Palmyra?
Pseudodipteral, with a column count of 8 x 15.
What design did Hermogenes emphasize in the Temple of Artemis at Magnesia on the Maeander?
A pseudodipteral design that emphasized space and balance between mass and volume.
What is the primary difference between dipteral and pseudodipteral temples?
The primary difference is the presence of a double versus a single colonnade.
True or False: Pseudodipteral temples have a single colonnade that is closely spaced.
False
Pseudodipteral temples have a single colonnade that is widely spaced.
What economic aspect is associated with the pseudodipteral plan?
It may have been used as an easy and economical way to increase the width of a temple.
Fill in the blank: The Rhoikos temple at Didyma is seen as a _______ building due to its experimental moldings.
transitional
What do dipteral temples reflect in terms of architectural approaches?
Different design and structural approaches in Greek and Roman architecture.
What is a Pan-Hellenic sanctuary?
A sacred site attracting worshippers, athletes, and artists from across the Greek world, serving as a central place for shared Greek identity and culture
What is a key characteristic of Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries regarding their location?
Extra-Urban Location: Typically located in remote areas outside major cities
Why was neutrality important for Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries?
These sites were controlled by weaker states to provide neutral meeting grounds, facilitating political interaction
What types of shared rituals took place at Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries?
Common religious practices and festivals, including sacrifices, processions, athletic contests, and artistic competitions
What role did athletic games play in Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries?
They were central events, often tied to hero cults, and a unifying aspect of the sanctuaries
What were dedications in the context of Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries?
Offerings from city-states and individuals, expressing piety, wealth, and competition
How did Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries serve political purposes?
They provided venues for political meetings, allowing Greeks to express unity, especially during crises
What cultural role did Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries play?
They facilitated cultural exchange and spread ideas, artistic styles, and technological advances
Which sanctuary is known for the Olympian Games?
Olympia: Established around 1000 BC, with games starting in 776 BC
What was significant about the sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi?
Famous for its oracle and hosted athletic and musical competitions, shaping Greek identity and culture
What were the Isthmian Games associated with?
The sanctuary of Poseidon at Isthmia, serving as a major shrine for the Corinthians
Which sanctuary was known for the Nemean Games?
The sanctuary of Zeus at Nemea
What is the significance of the sanctuary of Apollo on the island of Delos?
Drew in participants from across the Greek world
What role did Dodona’s sanctuary of Zeus play?
Known for its oracle and remote location
How did Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries evolve over time?
Evolved from simple altars to monumental complexes by the 7th-6th centuries BC
What led to the monumentalization of sanctuaries?
The growth of poleis and their association with economic and political power
What characterized the institutionalization of Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries during the Archaic period?
A common framework of cults and regulated activities reflecting the need to define divine and human relations
Fill in the blank: Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries were vital to the development of Greek culture, serving as places for __________, athletic competition, political negotiation, and cultural exchange.
[religious expression]
What was the Sanctuary of Poseidon at Isthmia?
A major Pan-Hellenic sanctuary located on the Isthmus of Corinth, serving as a center for religious practices, athletic competitions, and political assemblies.
Where is the Sanctuary of Poseidon located?
On the Isthmus of Corinth, about 1.5 km from the Saronic Gulf and 16 km east of Corinth.
Who were the principal deities honored at the Sanctuary of Poseidon?
- Poseidon
- Amphitrite
- Melikertes-Palaimon
- Other deities: Cyclopes, Demeter, Kore, Dionysos, Artemis
What is the earliest evidence of cult activity at Isthmia?
Dating back to the Proto-Geometric period (10th–8th century BC), including sacrifices, ritual feasting, and drinking.
What were the main activities at the sanctuary in its early years?
Sacrifice followed by feasting and drinking.
When was the Temple of Poseidon built?
In the early sixth century BC.
What significant structures were added to the Sanctuary of Poseidon over time?
- Stadium for the Isthmian Games
- Theatre
- Bathing facilities
- Monumental gateway
- Sacred grove or glen
What were the Isthmian Games?
One of the four major Pan-Hellenic games, initially founded as funeral games for Melicertes-Palaimon, including athletic, musical, and dramatic competitions.
What was a major part of the religious practices at the Sanctuary of Poseidon?
Sacrifices, typically burning the thigh bones of animals and feasting on the rest.
What artifacts related to religious practices have been found at Isthmia?
- Burnt bones of sheep, goats, and cattle
- Drinking vessels
- Egg-sized ritual stones
- Perirrhanterion (ritual basin)
What political role did the Sanctuary of Poseidon serve?
It was a venue for Pan-Hellenic assemblies and proclamations, facilitating gatherings of communities.
What types of dedications were found at the sanctuary?
- Jewelry
- Terracotta bulls, symbolic of Poseidon
What transition did the sanctuary undergo in its historical context?
From an extra-urban sanctuary under Corinthian control to a prominent Pan-Hellenic sanctuary.
True or False: The sanctuary served as a place of asylum.
True, though no historical examples are known.
Who was Melicertes-Palaimon in relation to the Isthmian Games?
A hero for whom the games were initially founded as funeral games.
What led to the decline of ritual activities devoted to Poseidon at the sanctuary?
The overshadowing popularity of the Isthmian Games and political assemblies.
Fill in the blank: The Sanctuary of Poseidon was characterized by its strategic location, religious importance, athletic games, and _______.
[political function]
What is the Heraion?
The Heraion, or Temple of Hera, is a significant structure within the sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia, dedicated to Hera.
When was the Heraion built?
The Heraion was built in the late 7th century BC.
What architectural style is the Heraion?
The Heraion is a Doric peripteral temple.
How many columns are on the facades and sides of the Heraion?
There are six columns on the facades and sixteen along the sides.
What materials were used in the original construction of the Heraion?
Initially, the foundations were made of stone, with mud-brick walls and wooden columns.
What significant changes occurred during the refurbishment of the Heraion?
The original wooden columns were gradually replaced with stone ones.
Why were the columns of the Heraion different in style and type?
Each column was slightly different due to contributions from various donors who wanted their donation to be recognizably unique.
What cult statues were housed in the Heraion?
The temple housed cult statues of Hera and possibly Zeus.
Describe the positioning of Zeus’s statue in the Heraion.
The statue of Zeus was positioned behind the seated cult image of Hera, indicating his role as her spouse rather than the primary deity.
What materials were used for the cult statues in the Heraion?
The cult statues were described as ‘simple’ and likely from the Archaic period.
What other deities were represented in the Heraion?
The temple contained images of the Horai, Themis, Athena, Demeter and Kore, Apollo and Artemis, and Hermes.
What unique items were found in the Heraion?
The temple contained a cedar-wood chest dedicated by Kypselos, a small bed, a disc inscribed with the Olympic truce, and an ivory and gold table for wreaths.
What was the purpose of the peplos for Hera?
The peplos was a robe or veil woven every four years by sixteen women from Elis for Hera.
Where was the peplos for Hera woven?
The peplos was woven in a special building located in the Agora of Elis.
What significance does the Heraion hold in relation to Zeus?
The Heraion highlights Hera’s significance in the sanctuary, despite Zeus being the primary deity.
What is one theory regarding the original dedication of the Heraion?
Some scholars suggest it was originally dedicated jointly to Zeus and Hera or was initially a temple of Zeus later rededicated to Hera.
Who might have introduced Hera’s cult in the Altis?
Hera’s cult might have been introduced by Pheidon, the 7th-century king of Argos.
What role did Hera’s temples serve in ancient worship?
Hera’s temples served as dwelling places for the deity and storehouses for the god’s possessions.
True or False: The Heraion is among the earliest attested temples in general.
True
Fill in the blank: The Heraion at Olympia reflects the prominent role of _______ in the religious landscape.
Hera
What is the terrace of the thesauroi in the sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia?
A significant architectural feature housing small buildings dedicated by various Greek city-states as offerings and repositories for valuable dedications.
Where was the treasury terrace located?
At the northern end of the Altis, the sacred precinct of Olympia, at the base of the hill of Cronus.
What was the primary purpose of the treasuries?
To house valuable offerings that might otherwise be damaged or stolen if left outside.
When did the construction of the treasuries begin?
Around 580 BC and continued until the first quarter of the fifth century BC.
How many treasuries did Pausanias mention?
A total of 11 treasuries.
List three cities known to have dedicated treasuries at Olympia.
- Sikyon
- Syracuse
- Byzantium
What architectural styles were reflected in the treasuries?
Various styles and forms, including early forms of Doric architecture.
How were the treasuries arranged on the terrace?
Constructed in a single line, extending from west to east along the terrace.
True or False: The treasuries were designed for private use and not intended for public display.
False
What did the dedications of the treasuries signify for the cities that built them?
A visible statement of wealth, piety, and status.
List five cities mentioned by Pausanias that had treasuries.
- Carthage
- Epidamnos
- Sybaris
- Cyrene
- Gela
What does the architectural internationalism of the treasuries highlight?
The diverse origins of the dedications and interactions of regional styles in early Greek architecture.
Fill in the blank: The foundations for three smaller buildings to the west of the first foundation include one known as _______.
Treasury ‘O’
What aspect of the treasuries did Pausanias focus on in his accounts?
The donors and the objects that were held within the treasuries, rather than their architectural features.
In summary, what role did the terrace of the treasuries play in the sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia?
It served as significant architectural and cultural features, displaying civic pride and wealth while representing the international character of the sanctuary.
What architectural order is the Temple of Zeus at Olympia built in?
Doric
The Temple of Zeus is a prime example of High Classical Greek architecture.
What was the main purpose of the Temple of Zeus at Olympia?
It served as a religious center for Zeus
The temple was a place of worship and ritual.
Who was the architect responsible for the construction of the Temple of Zeus?
Libon of Elis
What are the dimensions of the stylobate of the Temple of Zeus?
Approximately 27.68 x 64.12 meters
What significant statue was housed in the Temple of Zeus?
A colossal gold and ivory statue of Zeus
What is the height of the chryselephantine statue of Zeus?
12 meters
What materials were used to create the statue of Zeus?
Gold and ivory
Fill in the blank: The temple featured sculpted metopes depicting the _______.
Twelve Labors of Herakles
What theme is depicted in the east pediment of the Temple of Zeus?
The chariot race between Pelops and Oenomaus
What does the west pediment of the Temple of Zeus depict?
The Centauromachy
True or False: The Temple of Zeus had an altar directly in front of it.
False
The temple lacked an altar, which has been a topic of scholarly discussion.
What type of design does the Temple of Zeus exhibit?
Doric peripteral design
How many Doric columns were used in the peristyle of the Temple of Zeus?
6 x 13 Doric columns
What innovative architectural feature did the Temple of Zeus include?
Double corner contraction
What type of sculptures were featured on the acroteria of the temple?
Gilded bronze Nikai (victories)
What significant artistic achievement does the Temple of Zeus represent?
A symbol of civic identity, wealth, and artistic achievement
Fill in the blank: The interior of the cella was divided by two rows of _______.
double-storied colonnades
What was the purpose of the reflecting pool in the Temple of Zeus?
It was situated in front of the cult statue
What was the primary message of the sculptures in the Temple of Zeus?
To convey civic and mythological narratives
What was a common theme in the sculptural decoration of the Temple of Zeus?
Mythological battles, such as the Centauromachy and Gigantomachy
True or False: Greek temples, including the Temple of Zeus, were originally painted in vibrant colors.
True
What is the significance of the statue’s seated pose in the Temple of Zeus?
It drew from Homer’s description of Zeus on Mount Olympus
What role did the Temple of Zeus play in the economy?
It functioned as an economic reserve
What does the term ‘chryselephantine’ refer to in the context of the Temple of Zeus?
A statue made of gold and ivory
What is the historical significance of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi?
It reflects the evolving religious and political landscape of the sanctuary.
When did the sanctuary at Delphi date back to?
Around the 15th century BC.
Who was the original deity worshipped at the site before Apollo?
Gaia and the Python snake.
What characterized the early structures of the Temple of Apollo?
Simple huts or wooden structures.
What was the first monumental temple at Delphi called?
Hekatompedon.
During which period was the first monumental temple constructed?
Between 650 BC and 600 BC.
What architectural style was the early temple likely based on?
Doric style.
What major event destroyed the early temple around 373 BC?
An earthquake.
What type of temple was constructed in the 6th century BC?
A stone Doric peripteral temple.
Which family financed the construction of the 6th-century temple?
The Alcmaeonid family of Athens.
What materials were used for the 6th-century temple’s entablature, pediments, and roof?
Parian marble.
What significant inscriptions were found on the temple?
- Know Thyself
- Nothing in Excess
What was the main purpose of the adyton within the temple?
Where the Pythia delivered prophecies.
What happened to the 6th-century temple in 480 BC?
It may have been burnt by the Persians.
What characterized the reconstruction of the temple after 373 BC?
It was complex and funded by multiple sources.
What was the architectural style of the 4th-century temple?
Doric.
What role did the temple play during the Hellenistic and Roman periods?
It remained a focal point of the sanctuary.
What was the role of the Pythia in the temple?
Delivered oracles after purification rituals.
What type of sacrifices were performed before oracular sessions?
Goats.
What festival was hosted at the temple that included worship of Dionysus?
Theoxenia.
What was the primary building material used for the temple?
Fossiliferous limestone.
What decorative elements were featured on the temple?
- Painted figural decoration
- Relief sculptures
- Sculpture in the round
Who painted the exterior walls of the temple?
The painter Aristokleides.
Fill in the blank: The temple served as a crucial center for ________ and oracular consultations.
religious practice.
True or False: The Temple of Apollo at Delphi transitioned from wooden structures to monumental stone temples.
True.
What was the primary function of the Siphnian Treasury?
To house valuable offerings and protect them from damage or theft
Treasuries served as secure shelters for dedications.
How did the Siphnian Treasury express devotion and wealth?
By showcasing cultural and military achievements of the Siphnians
It reflected competition between city-states and individuals.
Where was the Siphnian Treasury located within the sanctuary of Delphi?
In a highly visible space known as ephiphanestatoi topoi
This strategic placement showcased Siphnians’ wealth and power.
What was the date of construction for the Siphnian Treasury?
Around 530-525 BC
It was made from marble sourced from the island of Siphnos.
What architectural style was the Siphnian Treasury built in?
Ionic style
It featured a small porch or pronaos in front of the cella.
What type of decoration was notable in the Siphnian Treasury?
Elaborate sculptural decoration, including a frieze and pediments
The treasury included caryatids and relief sculptures.
What scenes were depicted on the metopes of the Siphnian Treasury?
Mythological scenes, including the Gigantomachy and scenes of the Trojan War
These themes are similar to other treasuries of the period.
What was the significance of the Siphnian Treasury for the island of Siphnos?
It expressed wealth and artistic prowess, asserting status in the Greek world
Siphnos was known for its silver and gold mines.
What does modern analysis of the Siphnian Treasury reveal?
Insights into architectural and artistic trends of the Archaic period
It illustrates political and social dynamics of the Panhellenic sanctuary.
True or False: The Siphnian Treasury was a simple storage building.
False
It was also an expression of power and competition among city-states.
Fill in the blank: The Siphnian Treasury is an early example of an ________ sanctuary.
[interstate]
It served as both an offering and a shelter for other offerings.
What is meant by ‘architectural internationalism’ in the context of the Siphnian Treasury?
The display of artistic influences from other regions of Greece
It reflects the interconnectedness of Greek architectural trends.
When were the Nemean Games established?
573 BC
How often were the Nemean Games held?
Every two years
What myth is connected to the foundation of the Nemean Games?
The myth of Opheltes
What was the prize for victors in the Nemean Games?
A celery crown
Who originally controlled the Nemean Games?
Cleonae
Which city later oversaw the Nemean Games?
Argos
Name the three types of foot races included in the Nemean Games.
- Stadion
- Diaulos
- Dolichos
What was the length of the stadion race?
The length of the stadium
What is the diaulos race?
A double-length race, running down and back the length of the stadium
What type of combat sports were included in the Nemean Games?
- Pankration
- Wrestling
- Boxing
What types of equestrian events were likely included in the Nemean Games?
- Chariot races
- Horse races
Were musical competitions a part of the Nemean Games?
Yes
What type of shrine was included in the sanctuary at Nemea?
A hero shrine dedicated to Opheltes
What were central to the religious life of the sanctuary during the Nemean Games?
Sacrifices and rituals
What architectural features were present in the sanctuary at Nemea?
- Temple of Zeus
- Heroon
- Stadium
- Xenon (guest house)
- Oikoi (buildings)
- Baths
- Sacred grove
What was the first temple at the sanctuary constructed?
Around 600 BC
True or False: The Nemean Games were one of the four major Panhellenic festivals.
True
Fill in the blank: The Nemean Games were held in honor of _______ and the hero Opheltes.
Zeus
What was a significant aspect of the Nemean Games in ancient Greek society?
They were a significant part of the Panhellenic circuit
What was the significance of the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
It played a central role in the religious and civic life of ancient Athens.
What is another name for the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
The Old Temple of Athena.
What did the Archaic temple of Athena Polias house?
The ancient wooden cult statue (xoanon) of Athena Polias.
Where was the Archaic temple of Athena Polias located?
On the north side of the Acropolis, directly over the old Mycenaean palace.
When was the Archaic temple of Athena Polias destroyed?
In 480 BC by the Persians.
What architectural style is the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
Doric.
What is a unique nickname for the Archaic temple of Athena Polias and why?
The ‘Bluebeard’ temple, named after the triple-bodied, snake-legged creature depicted in its pediment.
What kind of structure was the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
A peripteral structure.
How many columns did the Archaic temple of Athena Polias likely have on the front and back?
Six columns.
What festival was primarily associated with the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
The Panathenaic Festival.
What type of imagery was featured in the pediments of the temple?
Gigantomachy, symbolizing the triumph of order over chaos.
What was the function of dedications (agalmata) in the temple?
They were offered to Athena and reflected the participation of different social classes.
What succeeded the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
The Erechtheion.
What role did the temple serve in terms of economic function?
It served as a repository for economic wealth.
What inscription mentions the Neos (Temple of Athena Polias) as the main religious center?
The Katapelon inscription.
Fill in the blank: The temple included a poros base, a poros altar, and an _______.
inscribed altar.
True or False: The Archaic temple of Athena Polias was built after the Hekatompedon.
False.
What type of rituals were organized at the Archaic temple of Athena Polias?
Ancient rituals for the goddess Athena.
What does the term ‘peploi’ refer to in the context of the temple?
Sacred robes prepared for the goddess by young Athenian girls.
What does the term ‘apotropaic imagery’ refer to in the temple’s decoration?
Imagery intended to ward off evil, such as lions killing a bull.
What was the architectural feature of the temple that indicated its monumentalization?
The construction took place in the 6th century BC.
What is the Hekatompedon inscription also known as?
IG I3 4
It is a significant piece of epigraphic evidence from the Archaic Athenian Acropolis.
To which period does the Hekatompedon inscription date?
Early 5th century BC
This period is crucial for understanding the topography and organization of the Acropolis.
Where was the Hekatompedon inscription found?
On a metope from the ‘Bluebeard’ temple
This temple was dedicated to Athena Polias.
What was the primary function of the ‘Bluebeard’ temple during the Panathenaic Festival?
Location for sacrifices
It was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC.
What does the term ‘neos’ refer to in the Hekatompedon inscription?
Temple
It likely refers to the Temple of Athena Polias.
What does the term ‘hekatompedon’ mean?
Hundred-footer
It was a common architectural term referring to the length of a temple.
What is debated among scholars regarding the ‘hekatompedon’ mentioned in the inscription?
Its exact location
It may refer to the future Parthenon or a structure south of the Temple of Athena Polias.
What activities does the Hekatompedon inscription regulate?
Use of fire for cooking, disposal of dung, and prohibits dogs
This indicates concern for the sanctity and cleanliness of the sacred area.
What does the Hekatompedon inscription reveal about the organization of the Acropolis?
Regulation of religious practices and space
It highlights the dual religious and economic role of the sanctuary.
What role did the ‘hekatompedon’ serve within the sanctuary?
Repository for economic wealth
The ‘oikamata’ stored valuable items.
How does the Hekatompedon inscription provide insight into social dynamics?
Regulates activities of priestesses and individuals involved in temple upkeep
It reveals the hierarchical nature of the sanctuary.
What is a key insight provided by the Hekatompedon inscription regarding the Acropolis?
Presence of both a temple of Athena Polias and a separate ‘hekatompedon’
This existed in the early 5th century BC.
What does the Hekatompedon inscription indicate about the relationship between religious and economic functions?
Intertwining of functions within the sanctuary
The hekatompedon served as both a sacred space and a repository of wealth.
What does the Hekatompedon inscription reveal about the complexity of the Acropolis?
Multiple functions before the Periclean building program
It was already a major religious and civic center.
True or False: The Hekatompedon inscription is a simple inventory of items.
False
It concerns the administration of the site and its use by personnel involved in the cult of Athena.
Fill in the blank: The Hekatompedon inscription provides a glimpse into the _______ and economic aspects of the Archaic Acropolis.
religious
It confirms the presence of regulations governing behavior within the sacred space.
What is the Parthenon?
A Doric temple on the Athenian Acropolis symbolizing Athenian political power, economic strength, and cultural achievement.
Built between 447 and 432 BC, it served as a religious temple dedicated to Athena Parthenos and a treasury.
What architectural order primarily characterizes the Parthenon?
Doric Order with Ionic Elements.
This reflects a synthesis of the two styles, indicating a move towards an international style of architecture.
What is the significance of the octastyle design of the Parthenon?
It features eight columns on the front and back and seventeen on each flank, accommodating the large cult statue of Athena.
This design also gives the impression of a double colonnade, similar to Ionic temples.
What is the shape of the cella in the Parthenon?
Larger than in typical Doric temples, designed to house the colossal statue of Athena Parthenos.
Surrounded by a colonnade in the shape of the Greek letter pi.
What are prostyle porches in the context of the Parthenon?
Entrances to the cella that are hexastyle and accessed by small steps between the krepis steps.
What architectural refinements are seen in the Parthenon?
Curved stylobate, inclined columns, and slight curvature in horizontal and vertical lines.
These refinements demonstrate a keen understanding of the physics of sight and human perception.
What materials were used in the construction of the Parthenon?
Limestone or marble.
What is depicted in the metopes of the Parthenon?
High-relief scenes of mythological battles, such as Gigantomachy, Centauromachy, Amazonomachy, and Trojan War.
These battles serve as metaphors for Athenian victory over the Persians.
What does the Ionic frieze of the Parthenon depict?
The Panathenaic procession, blending human and divine elements.
It showcases the harmony between society and the gods.
What are the themes of the pediments of the Parthenon?
The birth of Athena on the east and the contest between Athena and Poseidon for Attica on the west.
The corners include gods, goddesses, and Attic kings and queens.
What is the Chryselephantine statue of Athena Parthenos?
A colossal statue made of gold and ivory, around 12 meters tall, depicting Athena with armor and shield.
Created by Phidias, it served as both a religious icon and an economic asset for Athens.
What was the original appearance of the Parthenon’s sculptures?
Originally painted in vibrant colors with metal attachments for enhancement.
The friezes likely had blue backgrounds, while the metopes had a white background.
What were the akroteria of the Parthenon?
Six decorative elements that may have included flying Nikai figures, reinforcing the theme of victory.
What political statement did the Parthenon represent?
A symbol of Athenian power and a commemoration of victory over the Persians.
It projected Athens as the savior of Greece.
How does the Parthenon celebrate Athenian democracy?
Its decorative program, particularly the frieze, highlights civic pride and democratic values.
What role did the Parthenon serve in terms of economic reserve?
It stored vast amounts of gold and silver, and the statue of Athena Parthenos was also an economic reserve.
True or False: The building of the Parthenon was seen as spoils from the Persians.
True.
Who collaborated on the construction of the Parthenon to reflect Athens’s power?
Pericles and Phidias.
What role did the Parthenon play in state propaganda?
It emphasized the city’s wealth, democracy, and divine favor through its sculptural program.
How did the Parthenon reflect international influence?
The synthesis of Doric and Ionic architectural styles represented Athens’s political and military ties with Ionian states.
Fill in the blank: The Parthenon served as a lasting reminder of Athenian _______.
achievement.
What is the Erechtheion?
An unusual Ionic temple on the Athenian Acropolis, known for its complex plan and multiple cult functions
The Erechtheion contrasts with the Parthenon, which is primarily a Doric temple.
How does the architectural arrangement of the Erechtheion differ from traditional temples?
It does not follow a traditional rectangular plan and has four distinct rooms instead of a single main room
This design accommodates multiple cultic purposes.
What are the two main columnar porches of the Erechtheion?
The east porch and the north porch
The east porch features Ionic columns, while the north porch is taller and more elaborately decorated.
What is unique about the Caryatid Porch of the Erechtheion?
It features female figures (caryatids) that replace traditional columns
This architectural choice is distinctive to the Erechtheion.
What is the Cult of Athena Polias?
A cult critical to the celebration of the Panathenaia, centered around the ancient wooden image of Athena Polias
The temple housed this image, which received a new robe during the festival.
What was aligned with the east-facing porch of the Erechtheion?
The altar of Athena, where the Panathenaic procession assembled for sacrifices
This alignment underscores the temple’s role in religious ceremonies.
What types of cults were housed in the Erechtheion?
Cult of Athena Polias and Chthonic Cults
Chthonic cults relate to the foundation of Athens and its ancient history.
Who was honored in the Erechtheion as a mythical king?
Erechtheus
Erechtheus was considered the ancestor of the Athenians.
Which other deity had a cult in the Erechtheion?
Poseidon
The northern cella was dedicated to both Poseidon and Erechtheus.
What sacred artifacts were contained within the Erechtheion?
Triton marks, a saltwater reservoir, and an olive tree
These artifacts are connected to the city’s foundation myths.
What does the Erechtheion symbolize regarding Athenian identity?
It blends the worship of Athena with the commemoration of Athens’s ancient past
This reflects the Athenians’ conviction of their historical presence on the site.
True or False: The Erechtheion was solely dedicated to the worship of Athena.
False
The Erechtheion housed multiple cults and symbols of Athenian identity.
Fill in the blank: The north porch and associated west cella are thought to relate to _______ origins and ancestor worship.
chthonic
What does the term ‘autochthonous’ refer to in the context of the Erechtheion?
The belief that Athenians sprang from the earth
This concept is emphasized through the cults and artifacts housed in the temple.
What is the Propylaia?
The monumental gateway to the Athenian Acropolis designed by Mnesikles.
Who designed the Propylaia?
Architect Mnesikles.
In which century was the Propylaia built?
Mid-5th century BC.
What architectural styles are blended in the Propylaia?
Doric and Ionic elements.
What was the purpose of the Propylaia?
To serve as a transition point between the secular world and the sacred space of the Acropolis.
Describe the facade of the Propylaia.
It features a hexastyle Doric facade with a central ramp and side doorways.
What unique feature does the front colonnade of the Propylaia have?
The graduated spacings widen from the ends to the center.
What is the significance of the central ramp in the Propylaia?
It facilitates the movement of people onto the Acropolis.
What does the architectural language of stacked pediments symbolize?
Movement from low to high ground and spiritual transition.
How does the Propylaia incorporate Mycenaean elements?
It includes a section of the Mycenaean wall and a structure possibly serving as a defensive bastion.
What materials were used in the construction of the Propylaia?
Limestone and marble.
What role does the Propylaia serve in the Panathenaic procession?
It is an overtly processional structure receiving participants onto the Acropolis.
True or False: The Propylaia marks the transition between the slope of the Acropolis and its flat top surface.
True.
What does the design of the Propylaia foreshadow?
The synthesis of Doric and Ionic architecture found elsewhere on the Acropolis.
What symbolic meaning does the Propylaia convey?
A statement of Athenian power and cultural achievement.
What temple is adjacent to the Propylaia?
The Temple of Athena Nike.
What was the significance of the Propylaia’s orientation towards the temple of Athena Polias?
It aligned directly with the most important temple in the city, emphasizing its historical importance.
What larger effort was the Propylaia a part of?
The Periclean building program to rebuild the Acropolis after its destruction by the Persians.
How does the Propylaia reflect the memory of the Persian War?
It acknowledges the war through its monuments and serves as a marker of Athens’ leadership in the defensive alliance.
Fill in the blank: The Propylaia is more than just a ______; it is a complex architectural statement.
[gateway].
What does the design of the Propylaia reveal about Athenian culture?
It reflects the importance of procession and the transition from the secular to the sacred.
When was the sanctuary of Asklepios established on the Athenian Acropolis?
Around 420 BC
This establishment occurred following the restoration of relations between Athens and Epidauros.
What was the primary purpose of the sanctuary of Asklepios?
Healing services
The sanctuary provided a place for Athenians seeking cures, including ritual baths and dream cures.
Where was the sanctuary of Asklepios located?
On the southern slope of the Acropolis, west of the Theater of Dionysus
This area integrated natural features like caves and springs into its sacred space.
Who introduced the cult of Asklepios to Athens?
A man named Telemachos
He financed the cult’s early years.
What natural feature was part of the earliest shrine of Asklepios?
A grotto-spring
It provided water for ritual and therapeutic bathing, essential for all Asklepieia.
What type of structure was one of the earliest built in the sanctuary, dating back to around 420 BC?
A four-room dining area
This suggests the importance of shared meals in the cult’s rituals.
What is a bothros in the context of the sanctuary of Asklepios?
A stone-lined circular pit covered by a four-columned canopy, used to deposit offerings
The bothros was significant for the cult’s rituals.
What animal was associated with Asklepios and was brought from Epidauros?
A sacred snake
Serpents were frequently associated with Asklepios in myth and iconography.
What type of offerings did the sanctuary of Asklepios receive?
Votive offerings
These were from those seeking cures or expressing gratitude for healing.
What inscription was found on the pillar dedicated to Asklepios?
‘Praxias dedicated it to Asklepios with prayers for his wife’
This indicated that Praxias’ wife was suffering from an ailment of the eyes.
What was the historical context for the establishment of the sanctuary of Asklepios?
Post-plague establishment
It was established after the great plague that struck Athens from 430 to 426 BC.
How was the sanctuary of Asklepios integrated into Athenian society?
It provided a place for religious rituals and public life
This integration was essential for the cult’s significance in Athens.
With which other cults was the sanctuary of Asklepios situated?
Dionysus and Aphrodite
This location placed the worship of Asklepios within the general religious context of the area.
Fill in the blank: The arrival of Asklepios from Zea to the city sanctuary occurred at the time of the _______.
Eleusinian Mysteries
This was a significant period for the integration of Asklepios into Athenian religious practices.
What was the primary purpose of the Sanctuary of the Nymphe?
It was dedicated to rituals associated with marriage and the life transitions of women.
What encircled the Sanctuary of the Nymphe, marking it as a sacred space?
A peribolos wall.
What are loutrophoroi?
Vessels used for prenuptial baths, often decorated with wedding-related imagery.
Who dedicated loutrophoroi at the Sanctuary of the Nymphe?
Women about to be married.
What do spindle whorls, miniature vessels, jewelry, and cosmetics containers signify?
The domestic and personal roles of women.
What type of reliefs were included as votive offerings at the sanctuary?
Anatomical reliefs.
What did anatomical reliefs suggest about the sanctuary’s purpose?
It served as a place where women sought help and blessings for fertility and childbirth.
What type of offerings were found in the Aphrodite Ourania collection box?
Monetary offerings from betrothed couples.
What does the presence of marble plaques with names of officials indicate?
The sanctuary was associated with the political life of Athens.
What was the significance of the loutrophoroi in marriage rituals?
They highlighted the sanctuary’s role in ceremonies marking a woman’s entry into married life.
What elements were integrated into the architectural design of the sanctuary?
Natural springs and architectural features.
When was the Sanctuary of the Nymphe established?
In the 7th century BC.
True or False: The Sanctuary of the Nymphe operated continuously until the Roman period.
True.
What do the offerings at the sanctuary reveal about the women who frequented it?
They reflect a range of personal and social concerns.
Fill in the blank: The offerings acted as markers of transitions in a woman’s life, particularly the important transition from _______.
maidenhood to marriage.
What role did dedications at the sanctuary function as?
A kind of communication with the goddess.
What connection exists between the Sanctuary of the Nymphe and Aphrodite?
It is linked to rituals related to marriage and fertility.
What were the arrhēphoroi in relation to the Sanctuary of the Nymphe?
Young girls selected to participate in certain rituals.
What is suggested about the location of the sanctuary of Aphrodite mentioned by Pausanias?
It was near a natural underground descent where young girls exchanged sacred objects.
What was the overarching theme of the offerings recovered from the Sanctuary of the Nymphe?
They highlight both personal and social aspects of Athenian life.
What is a telesterion?
A specific type of building in ancient Greece associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries, translated as ‘initiation hall’
Telesterions were primarily used for initiation ceremonies for mystery cults.
What was the primary function of a telesterion?
To host initiation ceremonies for mystery cults, particularly the Eleusinian Mysteries
The rituals aimed to guide initiates from confusion and grief to confidence and joy.
What architectural feature is characteristic of telesteria?
They were typically large, square or rectangular halls designed to hold a large number of people
Seating was arranged around the walls.
What does the term ‘hypostyle’ mean in relation to telesteria?
The roof was supported by many columns
This design was common in the architecture of telesterions.
What is an anaktoron?
The inner room of a telesterion, sometimes referred to as the ‘lord’s hall’
It was kept constant even as the building itself was rebuilt and expanded.
What is the significance of site specificity in telesteria?
Telesteria were built at specific locations with significance for the cult
The telesterion at Eleusis was partially cut into the bedrock, rooting the sanctuary in the area.
How do telesteria differ from typical Greek temples in terms of decoration?
Telesteria lacked lavish sculptural decoration and were inward-facing
Unlike outward-looking peripteral temples.
What role did the hierophant play in the telesterion?
A priest who appeared from the inner room in a blaze of torchlight during sacred rituals
This was a key part of the initiation ceremonies.
What was a common practice following the climactic rites in a telesterion?
Sacrifice of bulls and pigs to the goddesses and other Eleusinian deities
This was part of the rituals conducted within the telesterion.
What was the secrecy surrounding the rites in a telesterion?
The rites were kept secret to protect the mystai (initiates) from non-initiated eyes
This ensured the sanctity and exclusivity of the initiation process.
What historical evolution did the telesterion at Eleusis undergo?
It evolved from a Mycenaean megaron and grew in size and capacity over time
There were multiple reconstructions after destruction, notably following the Persian invasion.
What does the reunion of Kore and Demeter symbolize in the rituals at Eleusis?
The mystai would ‘find’ Kore, who revealed herself in the light within the telesterion
This reenactment was central to the Eleusinian Mysteries.
True or False: The telesterion at Eleusis was the only one known to exist.
False
Other examples exist, such as in Arcadia and Lykosoura.
Fill in the blank: The telesterion at Eleusis was rebuilt after the _______ destruction of Attica in 479 BC.
[Persian]
What is the central theme of the myth of Kore and Demeter?
Abduction, grief, and the cycle of life and death
Who abducts Kore, also known as Persephone?
Hades, the king of the underworld
What is Demeter’s reaction to Kore’s abduction?
Overwhelmed by grief and neglects her duties as a goddess of agriculture
Where does Demeter wander in search of Kore?
The earth, disguised as an old woman
What significant event occurs when Demeter reaches Eleusis?
She is taken in by King Celeus and Queen Metaneira
What does Demeter attempt to do for Demophoon?
Make him immortal by anointing him with ambrosia and placing him in the hearth flames
What does Demeter demand after becoming angry at the interruption of her ritual?
That the people of Eleusis build her a temple and establish rites in her honor
How does Zeus intervene in the myth?
He sends Hermes to bring Persephone back from the underworld
What binds Persephone to the underworld?
A pomegranate seed given to her by Hades
What compromise is reached regarding Persephone’s time spent with Demeter and Hades?
Persephone spends two-thirds of the year with Demeter and one-third with Hades
What agricultural cycle is associated with Persephone’s movements?
Her return in spring symbolizes crop growth, and her descent in fall symbolizes dormancy
What gifts does Demeter return to the earth after reuniting with Kore?
Gifts of grain and agriculture
How are Demeter and Kore sometimes interpreted in relation to each other?
As two aspects of the same goddess
What does the myth of Kore and Demeter symbolize in terms of vegetation?
Kore represents the seed that is planted and rises again
How does the relationship between Demeter and Kore differ from other death and resurrection myths?
It focuses on a mother-daughter bond rather than a lovers’ liaison
In the Orphic tradition, how is the myth of Kore and Demeter intertwined?
With the birth of Dionysus, who is sometimes said to be the son of Persephone
In which area was the focus of the myth less on Demeter’s grief?
Sicily
What do the Eleusinian Mysteries symbolize?
Demeter’s search for Kore and the promise of regeneration
What rituals were included in the Eleusinian Mysteries?
Fasting and the drinking of kykeon
What dramatic representation was part of the culmination of the Eleusinian Mysteries?
Kore’s return from the underworld and her reunion with Demeter
Fill in the blank: The myth of Kore and Demeter provides a foundation for the _______.
Eleusinian Mysteries
What is the origin of the sanctuary at Heraion, Samos?
The origins can be traced back to the 9th century BC, with evidence of sacrificial practices and votive offerings.
What was the earliest feature of the sanctuary at Heraion?
The altar, which existed from the tenth century and was rebuilt several times.
Where was the sanctuary of Hera located?
Outside the city boundaries, signifying the polis’s control over surrounding territories.
What was the role of the sanctuary of Hera in Samian society?
It was a major religious center and a vital economic and social hub.
What architectural form did the first temple of Hera (Hekatompedon I) take?
It was a narrow, elongated structure approximately 33 meters long.
What was unique about Hekatompedon I regarding its design?
It housed an aniconic cult statue and was one of the first hekatompeda or ‘hundred-footers’.
What materials were used in the construction of Hekatompedon I?
Mudbrick with a row of timber uprights to support the roof.
True or False: Hekatompedon II had central columns.
False
What characterized the construction of Hekatompedon II?
It featured wooden pillars along the walls instead of central columns.
What significant temple was constructed during the Archaic Period?
The first dipteral temple, also known as the Rhoikos temple, around 570 BC.
What were the dimensions of the Rhoikos temple?
About 52.5 × 105.0 meters.
What architectural innovation was introduced with the Rhoikos temple?
It was innovative and influential in the development of monumental Ionic architecture.
What happened to the Rhoikos temple?
It was dismantled likely due to unstable foundations in the marshy terrain.
Fill in the blank: The North Building may have served as a _______.
treasury temple
During which period was no new construction undertaken at the Heraion?
The Classical period.
What was built beside the Roman temple in the 5th century?
A Christian church using materials taken from the temple.
What was the Heraion at Samos primarily characterized by?
Monumental architecture designed to impress visitors.
What type of sanctuary was the Heraion at Samos?
A local island sanctuary, not a pan-Hellenic sanctuary.
What did the architectural development of the Heraion reflect?
The historical development of Samos as a marine trading center.
What was revealed during excavations at the Heraion?
An Early Bronze Age settlement beneath the northern area.
What was the main cult image contained in the main temple?
The cult image of the goddess.
What types of offerings were significant at the sanctuary?
Dedications and votive offerings from across the ancient world.
What is the significance of the Heraion at Samos?
It served as a religious, economic, and cultural hub, providing insights into the cult of Hera and Samian society
The sanctuary highlights Samos’s extensive trade connections.
What types of textiles were found in the sanctuary’s inventory?
Various textiles and ceremonial garments, often listed as ‘belonging to’ the goddess
The statue of Hera was adorned with costly raiments.
How many bronze fibulas were recovered from the Heraion?
Approximately 52 bronze fibulas
These fibulas represent different types, indicating diverse origins.
Name three types of materials found at the Heraion from across the ancient world.
Bronze, ivory, and pottery
Items were sourced from Egypt, Syria, and Cyprus.
What types of local offerings were found at the Heraion?
Humble, crudely carved vessels, figurines, and natural curiosities like coral and rock crystal
These indicate the sanctuary was a local center of worship.
What items were dedicated to Hera that symbolized fertility?
Pinecones, pomegranates, poppy pods, grape seeds, and olive pits
These items reflect Hera’s role as a fertility goddess.
What do the stylized wooden ship models suggest about the Samians?
They indicate a connection to successful trading ventures
Two full-size ships were dedicated in the sanctuary during the Archaic period.
What was found in large quantities that served as cult dining equipment?
Plainly painted pottery vessels, including goblets, cups, and amphoras
These were used for sacrificial meals.
What types of military items were among the gifts to Hera?
Miniature terracotta shields, armor, and bronze horse trappings
These items connect Hera to the nurturing of warriors.
What types of sculptures were found at the Heraion?
Kouros and kore statues
The sanctuary was a center for marble sculpture during the Archaic period.
What notable item was dedicated at the Samian Heraion representing a tithe?
A bronze griffin-head cauldron supported by kneeling human figures
This item represented profits from a single voyage.
What does the presence of foreign artifacts at the Heraion indicate?
Cultural exchange and syncretism between Greek and Near Eastern divinities
The sanctuary influenced Greek art through various cultural works.
What was notable about the animal remains found at the Heraion?
They were mostly from bovines, sheep, and pigs, indicating sacrificial practices
Fallow deer bones suggest wild animals could also be sacrificed.
Fill in the blank: The offerings at the Heraion demonstrate the integration of _______ and foreign influences.
local
True or False: There was a record of the gender of donors in the Samos inventory.
False
Only one donor, a man named Diogenes, is named.
What do the types of votives at the Heraion indicate about social classes?
A range of social classes participated in the sanctuary’s activities
This is evidenced by the variety of offerings from horse trappings to simple figurines.
What role did the Heraion serve for the polis of Samos?
It acted as a focal point showcasing Samos’s power and artistic achievements
The sanctuary highlighted the island’s international reach.
What was the central part of the rituals at the Heraion?
Sacred processions (Pompe)
The procession involved the Samian society traveling 6 km from the city to the sanctuary.
What garments did participants wear during the processions?
Ritual white garments, gold adornments, and wreaths
These signified their sacred purpose.
What was the most common sacrificial animal at the Heraion?
Bovines, primarily cows
Sheep and pigs were also sacrificed, but goats were rarely found.
What special treatment was given to the thighs of sacrificial animals?
Wrapped in fat and burned on the altar
The best parts of the animals were not consumed during feasts.
Which exotic animals’ remains were found at the Heraion?
Skull fragments from an Egyptian crocodile and African antelopes
Indicates exotic animals may have been offered as trophies.
What does the presence of pottery tableware and drinking cups suggest about the sacrificial feasts?
They were likely communal events
Participants consumed portions of the sacrificed animals.
What was the height of the most monumental version of the altar at the Heraion?
40 meters
The altar was rebuilt several times.
What type of rituals were implied by the presence of wells at the Heraion?
Purification rituals
The use of water for cleansing is suggested.
What annual festival included wedding rites in honor of Hera?
The festival associated with the Sacred Marriage
The statue of Hera was dressed as a bride for this festival.
What items were commonly offered as votive offerings at the Heraion?
Textiles, jewelry, garments
These offerings demonstrated the diverse aspects of Hera’s cult.
What materials reflect the sanctuary’s connection to trade networks?
Egyptian ivories, scarabs, and Babylonian bronze figurines
These items indicate diverse influences.
What fertility-related items were frequently offered at the Heraion?
Pinecones, pomegranates, and poppy pods
These items were symbolic of fertility.
What was the Tonaia ritual associated with?
Binding the old wooden statue of Hera to a tree
This ritual was part of an annual festival with competitions and communal feasts.
What types of competitions were part of the festivals held at the Heraion?
Athletic competitions and musical performances
These events demonstrated the Heraion’s role as a cultural center.
True or False: Ritual dances were associated with the Heraion.
True
Dances were part of the rituals performed.
What was a common type of offering related to ships found at the Heraion?
Wooden ship models
Two full-sized ships were dedicated during the Archaic period.
What type of figures were important votive offerings at the Heraion?
Kouros and kore figures
These sculptures and statues held significance in the rituals.
