A major archaeological discovery in Greece reveals that an ancient tomb was transformed into a healing sanctuary. This site, located near Corinth, bears witness to different uses throughout the ages.
The gold ring, coins, and gold leaves found in ancient Corinth, Greece.
Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
The tomb, discovered in Chiliomodi near Corinth, features a T-shaped funerary structure dating from the Hellenistic period. It housed a main burial chamber and several sarcophagi, one of which contained a female skeleton. The other tombs had been looted.
This monument served as a burial site for several centuries before being converted into a healing sanctuary in the late Roman period. The artifacts found, such as a gold ring depicting Apollo and clay offerings, illustrate this transformation.
The excavations also revealed objects such as coins, gold leaves, small vases, and glass beads, attesting to the importance of the site. Anatomical offerings, like clay fingers and an arm, suggest that visitors sought healing or expressed gratitude for healings received.
Archaeologists continue to explore the site to better understand its history and architecture. Further research is planned to study the remains from the late Roman period, including houses and a large kiln.
The sanctuary in ancient Corinth, Greece.
Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
This discovery offers a unique glimpse into funerary and religious practices in ancient Greece, highlighting the evolution of beliefs and rituals over the centuries.
What is a healing sanctuary in antiquity?
Healing sanctuaries were sacred places where the ancients sought remedies for their ailments. These sites, often dedicated to healing gods like Apollo, hosted offerings and rituals.
Visitors left anatomical offerings in clay, representing the parts of the body they wished to heal. These objects symbolized their prayers and gratitude towards the deities.
These sanctuaries played a crucial role in ancient society, combining religion and medicine. They testify to the belief in divine intervention in the healing of diseases and injuries.
Why are snakes associated with medicine?
The snake is an ancient symbol of medicine, linked to deities like Apollo and Asclepius. It represents rebirth and healing, due to its ability to shed its skin and regenerate.
In Greek mythology, the snake was often associated with healing powers. Asclepius, the god of medicine, is frequently depicted with a staff around which a snake is coiled.
This symbol has endured to this day, illustrating the continuity of beliefs and medical practices since antiquity. It reminds us of the importance of mythology in understanding ancient health practices.