Nymfolyptos Cave Photography by DimitrisDimosVari Cave on Mount Hymettus in Attica, Greece, has been
Nymfolyptos Cave Photography by DimitrisDimosVari Cave on Mount Hymettus in Attica, Greece, has been in use as a shrine to the Nymphs, Pan and Apollo since about 500 BCE. A sculptor from Thera named Archedamos explained in an inscription at the site that he excavated the cave, creating steps, altars, and shelves for votive offerings, at the command of the nymphs. It is called Nympholeptos because Archeamos described himself as having been “enraptured” by the nymphs.The cave was excavated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1902. More than 400 ceramic fragments, including bowls and ointment pots, have been found at the site, along with terracotta figurines, marble votive reliefs, coins (mostly Roman), rings, and lamps. The bones of animals indicate sacrifices.The cave appears to have been in use through the late 4th century CE. -- source link
#nymphaeum#pan#ancient greece#hellenic polytheism