The work carried out in Epidaurusby the research group of the University of Athens, under the direction of the emeritus professor of Archeology of the University of Athens Vassilis Lambrinoudakis, in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Argolis, had significant results this year as well, says a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In the Asklepiion the big one was released squarein its center sanctuaryfrom the stones of buildings and votives, which were deposited there, already from the years of the great excavation, 19th and early 20th century.

This free space in front of the temple, 1,500 about sq, was a key functional element of the sanctuary. He could hosts the host of the pilgrims who arrived at the sanctuary to participate in bloody sacrifice to Asklepios, with the festive procession.

It was defined to the east by the altar of the god and on both sides by semicircular platforms, votives and at the same time seats of prominent families of Epidaurus, from where their members watched the ritual of sacrifice.

pedavrus

Already the square provides the visitor with its ancient image.

In the large building of the 2nd century AD (“Building K”) to the west of the holy street, several building phases have been identified, until the late 4th century. A.D. The existence of a peculiar “crypt” is consistent with the use of “Building K” for a mystical cult, especially in late Roman times.

poor

The Mosque of Asclepius

In the city of Epidaurus, a short distance from the “small theater”, the unknown until now, Temple of Asclepius was revealed. Its location is mentioned by the ancient traveler Pausanias.

The facilities of the Temple date from 4th century BC. However, the phase in which the buildings of the sanctuary were preserved is the one that took place during the 2nd century AD, connected, probably, to the visit of Hadrian in 124 AD, to Epidaurus, informs, among other things, the YPPO.

The works in the city of Epidaurus are sponsored by the I. Latsis Foundation.