The first chapters outline important themes and issues, including locations and their meanings, defining features of sanctuaries, the relationship between structure and ritual, political as well as religious functions, transformations over time, and the activities and experiences of the individual. These themes are linked to historic and specific sanctuaries, notably Olympia and Delphi, as examples of major international sanctuaries; Samos and Poseidonia, as urban sanctuaries in different parts of the Greek world; and the acropolis in Athens. Final chapters trace the consequences of the Roman conquest, the triumph of Christianity, as well as the impact of Turks, travelers, archaeologists, and tourists on these sites. Written in a clear style and richly illustrated, the book is intended for students and provides an accessible yet authoritative introduction to the material aspects of ancient Greek sanctuaries and the ritual activities which took place there. It includes a lengthy glossary and a chapter bibliography.
Contents 1. Introduction; 2. Setting the stage; 3. Growth and variety; 4. The siting of sanctuaries; 5. Architecture for the Gods: sacred building; 6. Activities and experiences I; 7. Activities and experiences II: offerings; 8. Sanctuary histories: Olympia; 9. Sanctuary histories: Delphi; 10. Sanctuary histories: Samos; 11. Sanctuary histories: Poseidonia; 12. Sanctuary histories: the Acropolis at Athens; 13. Greece, Rome and Byzantium; 14. The aftermath.