Early 3rd–early 2nd c. BC
December 5, 2018
114–116 AD
December 5, 2018

31 BC–AD 181

Early Imperial period: The sanctuary of Zeus Hypsistos

 
Under the orders of emperor Augustus (31 B.C.–A.D. 181) the monumental altar of Zeus Agoraios, patron of the orators, is being transferred from the Pnyx to the Agora, in front of the Metroon (Registry), and the operation of the Ekklesia (the Assembly Place of the people) is interrupted. Towards the end of the 1st century A.D. and close to the bema of the Pnyx, the sanctuary of Zeus Hypsistos is founded with niches cut in the face of the scrap; it would be in use for another 200 years.
 
Selected bibliography:

Kourouniotes and Thompson 1932, 160–162; Camp 1986, 186; Forsén 1996, 49–51.

 

Rock-cut niches next to the bema of the Pnyx, a spot for leaving dedications to Zeus Hypsistos who was considered a healer god. Photograph taken in 1930.
(Source: American School of Classical Studies at Athens, Archives, Archaeological Photographic Collection, no AP0348)