The Acropolis of Athens naturally sends eyes skyward to take in the glories of the Parthenon and other buildings atop it, but its best-kept secret is a chamber inside the sacred rock.

The secret chamber of the Acropolis is actually a Byzantine church. Restored in 2017, the Acropolis, once a place of worship, burrows deep into the base of Athens’ most renowned mountain. Above the Dionysus Theater, is the church called Panagia Spilotissa, or the Virgin Mary of the Cave, which was converted from an archaic temple.

Ironically, the church originated as a temple to celebrate the ancient Greek god of festivity and religious madness. Dating back to 320 BC, the cave was a temple dedicated to Dionysus, built by Thrasyllos. Two Ionian pillars still stand on top of the entryway, easily spotted from the pedestrian walkway, the Dionysios Areopagitis, that borders the Acropolis.

Acropolis’ Secret: First an Archaic Monument, Then an Alternative Church

The monument was erected to celebrate Thrasyllos’ victory as the benefactor of a chorus that performed in the annual dramatic festival that honored Dionysus. After the victory, Thrasyllos had the monument constructed. It was again modified in 297 BC, following his son, Thrasyklis, victory to include inscriptions.

The cave was most likely considered sacred long before the construction of the monument. It may have been dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt. The rock face was cut back to form a flat vertical surface, and the mouth of the cave was enlarged into a rectangular opening. Two broad stone steps led up to the entry.

A Doric marble portico was set at the front of the cave, in imitation of the Propylaea, on the southwest wing of the Acropolis. The structure would have been surmounted with three bronze tripods that served as the actual prizes in the annual competition that involved drama, comedy, and musical performances. The tripods were eventually replaced with a statue of Dionysus.

Best-Preserved Examples of post-Byzantine Hagiography

“The fresco decoration of Panagia Spiliotissa comprises the best-preserved examples of post-Byzantine hagiography in the area of the Acropolis and its slopes,” according to Dr. Konstantinos Boletis. Boletis serves as a restoration architect for the Department/Ephorate of Antiquities of the City of Athens.

The church was one of the “alternative” places to worship that began to emerge in Athens during the sixth century following the decrees sent down by the Byzantine emperors.

To read this article in full, please visit: greekreporter.com

Although we know Greek history and mythology is loved all over the world, probably not many would guess that a Greek Mythology Museum exists in South Korea. What makes this museum all the more interesting is that it’s not even on the Korean mainland, but on the holiday destination of Jeju Island.

The museum itself is modeled after classical Greek architecture, featuring a row of columns outside and replicas of ancient Greek statues and famous paintings depicting scenes from Greek mythology.

The impressive museum is divided into seven large galleries that are all focused on one aspect of Greek mythology, such as the “Olympus Galley,” the “Love Gallery,” and the “Hero Gallery.”

Each gallery features spectacular white-plaster replicas of imposing ancient sculptures, as well as information regarding Greek mythology and history in both Korean and English.

It even features a replica of an ancient Greek village that visitors can explore, as well as historically accurate costumes they can wear, which help to transport them through time back to ancient Greece.

In the “Olympus Gallery,” replicas of famous ancient Greek sculptures of the gods line the room, along with copies of famous paintings depicting stories from Greek myth. Visitors can learn about each of the twelve gods and admire the artwork displayed in the museum.

The site is also home to a number of replicas of important items from Greek mythology, such as the Trojan Horse, albeit on a smaller scale. The museum also features interactive displays about zodiac signs and the constellations and even explains the Greek myths behind many of the constellations.

To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com

From outdoors activities to some of the best cycling routes, see what's included in this week's newsletter! 

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It's Clean Monday in Greece  bringing Carnival celebrations to an end, inviting everyone to leave behind the 'sinful' attitudes associated with Carnival festivities and non-fasting foods!

 

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We're celebrating love in this week's newsletter as Valentine's Day approaches! 

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Elpida weather storm will be bringing low temperatures and snow in Athens! Stay safe and cozy! 

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A New Year,
Full Of ​New Beginnings 

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Learn all about the New Year's traditions in this week's newsletter!

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