Pythian Games: Difference between revisions

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File:Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi from the Phaedriades 01.jpg

Sanctuary of Apollo with Delphic Stadium from the Phaedriades. Delphi, Greece.

The Pythian Games (Template:Langx) were one of the four Panhellenic Games of Ancient Greece. Founded circa the 6th century BCE, the festival was held in honor of the god Apollo and took place at his sanctuary in Delphi to commemorate the mytho-historic slaying of Python and the establishment of the Oracle at Delphi. The Pythian Games took place every four years, two years after the Olympic Games, and between each Nemean and Isthmian Games. They continued until the 4th century AD.

File:Plan Delphi full.svg

Site plan of the archaeological area of Delphi, Greece.

The Pythian Games, which were ranked second in importance behind the Olympics, primarily and originally focused on competitions for art and dance. As the Pythian Games evolved over time athletic events were added and some events allowed for the participation of women.

Mythical origins

According to ancient Greek Mythology, the Pythian Games are founded with the slaying of the mythical serpent, Python by the god Apollo in his search for a good location to establish his temple.^[1] After being directed to the area by Telphusa and coming across a spring, Python sprung forth and attacked him. Apollo slew the serpent with his bow and established the area of Delphi safe for humans and declared his ownership of the site.^[2] After burying the body, Apollo founded the oracle of Delphi. In some versions of the myth, by slaying Python, Apollo was guilty of a crime and Zeus declared that he had to make amends. In order to do so Apollo founded the Pythian Games. Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Other versions of the legend state that Apollo established the games to celebrate his victory over Python.^[3]^[1]

"Lest in a dark oblivion time should hide

File:Apollo killing the Python snake, RF 3462 (351).jpg

Apollo Killing Python, Louvre

the fame of this achievement, sacred sports

he instituted, from the Python called

“The Pythian Games.” In these the happy youth

who proved victorious in the chariot race,

running and boxing, with an honoured crown

of oak leaves was enwreathed. The laurel then

was not created, wherefore Phoebus, bright

and godlike, beauteous with his flowing hair,

was wont to wreathe his brows with various leaves."

-- -- Metamorphoses, 1.416-451

History

File:Delphi charioteer front DSC06255.JPG

Statue of a charioteer Delphi, Greece.

Originally, the Pythian Games were held as a musical event, focused around singing a hymn in honor of the god Apollo. ^[4] Later, administration of the games shifted to the Delphic Amphictyony, a council of twelve Greek tribes, and the Pythian Games were reorganized.^[5] ^[6] New events were introduced, including an expansion of music focused events and the eventual introduction of athletic events.^[5] The expanded Pythian Games were first held around the end of the First Sacred War, circa 586/582 BCE. ^[7] It was also during this time that the Pythian Games shifted from being held every eight years as in the past, to every four years, two years before and after the Olympic Games, near the end of August.^[8]^[5]

Despite the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire during the 4th century, Delphi remained an active pagan site and the Pythian Games continued to be celebrated at least until AD 424.^[9]

The Games

Preparations

The preparations for the games began six months prior. Script error: No such module "Unsubst". During this time, nine Delphian theoroi, were sent out to all Greek city-cities to announce the beginning of the games.This served both to attract those who might wish to participate in the games, as well as to declare the period of the Sacred Truce or (Hieromenia). Once the Hieromenia was declared all violent conflict had to end in order to ensure safe passage to all those who wished to attend the Games. Script error: No such module "Unsubst". If a city was involved in armed conflict or in robberies during that period, its citizens were forbidden to enter the Sanctuary, participate in the games, or consult the Oracle. Additionally, the truce allowed the Amphictyony to focus on preparing for the games, which included restorations for all structures of the Sanctuary, from the temples to the streets and fountains. Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Scores of people flocked to the games from all over Greece, bringing in substantial revenue to the city. Script error: No such module "Unsubst".

File:Delphi stadium starting line DSC06301.jpg

Starting line at the Delphi stadium used for the Pythian Games. Delphi, Greece.

Overview

The festival itself was held around the months of August and September. ^[5] Records from Aristotle present an overview of the festivities: the Games lasted for six to eight days and were started by a reenactment of the victory of Apollo over Python. In a festive and glamorous procession, a ritual sacrifice was performed in the Temple of Apollo. After four days of festivities, the Games began. Script error: No such module "Unsubst"..

Although the main Pythian Games took place in Delphi, smaller, informal versions of the games were held and celebrated in other cities. ^[10]

The Pythian and ancient Olympic games shared many athletic and equestrian events, however the Pythinan games did not include a four-horse chariot race but did, instead add additional running races for boys.^[4]

Women in the Pythian Games

Although the ability to participate in ancient Greek athletic realms, including the Panhellenic games was limited for women, the Pythian games were an exception. Unlike at Olympia where there was a separate festival for women (the Heraean Games), women were allowed to compete at Delphi in both athletic and artistic events. Athletic events that allowed for the participation for women were most likely gender exclusive and not co-ed.^[11] The only surviving record of a female victor at the Pythian Games is Tryphosa, who won the girl's stadion running race.^[12]^[13]

File:Αρχαίο στάδιο Δελφών2.jpg

The stadium of Delphi, Greece

Athletic events

The athletic contests took place in the Stadium. Overtime, various athletic competitions were introduced, some of which were adopted from the Olympic games. ^[6] At it's peak, the athletic competition included four-track sports: stade, diaulos, dolichos and hoplitodromos (racing encumbered with pieces of Hoplite armor), as well as wrestling, boxing, pankration, and the pentathlon.

Equestrian events

The final day of the games was dedicated to equestrian races, which were held in a hippodrome in the plain of Krisa,^[6] not far from the sea, in the place where the original stadium was sited. (ref: Pindar). At the peak of the Pythian Games the list of equestrian events included:

Harness racing
Synoris - a two horse chariot race for foals (338 BCE).^[6] ^[4]
A four horse chariot race (852 BCE).
Keles - a horse race for foals (314 BCE). ^[6]^[4]

Artistic events

Music

Musical events in the Pythian Games held prominence, as the oldest contest at Delphi was the singing of a hymn to Apollo, god of arts and music. ^[4]

The first Games run by the Delphic Amphictyony, which are dated to the third year of the forty-eighth Olympiad (586 BCE) featured contests of singing accompanied by cithara (a lyre).^[6] The introduction of a cithara contest without vocals was made during eighth Pythian Games.^[4]

Contests for playing the aulos (a double-reeded wind instrument) both solo and accompanied and contests for singing to the aulos were added. ^[4]^[6] The latter of these was abolished by the second Games because the music was considered "ill-omened" with dismal tunes accompanied by lamentations.^[4]

Pythocritus of Sicyon was aulos victor at six consecutive festivals, the only player so to distinguish himself. His playing accompanied the pentathlon at the Olympics where a statue was erected to him.^[14]

Poetry, prose and drama

Poetry and prose contests were another feature of the Pythian Games. These events were held in a theater above the Temple of Apollo.^[6] A panel of judges chose victors. Contests of Tragic acting probably involved both individual performances and dramatic productions.^[12]

Painting

Painting competitions were introduced in the mid-5th century BC.^[12]

Later Roman Additions

In the Roman period theatrical competitions were introduced, carried out in the late-Hellenistic theater. Script error: No such module "Unsubst".

Prizes

During the primary years of the Pythian games, where there were fewer events and the competitions were music based, prizes were given to the victors. These prizes may have consisted of golden tripods. ^[6] As the games evolved and expanded and grew more popular across the ancient Greek world, prizes ceased to be handed out. In 582 BCE the Pythian games became "stephanitic" or "crown" games. ^[6]^[4] As such, no monetary prizes were awarded to winners of the Pythian Games. Instead they received a wreath of bay laurel, sacred to Apollo, from the Vale of Tempe, in Thessaly. ^[4]

Pindar and the Pythionikoi

Pindar, a well renowned Theban poet, composed 45 poems in honor of the victors of the Panhellenic games. Of those poems, 12 were composed for the winners of the Pythian games and titled Pythionikoi. These poems, which were primarily focused on recounting the honor and glory of the victors, also praised their families. ^[15] Furthermore, the poems provide insight into the aristocratic and athletic ideals of the late archaic period.

The Pythionikoi as a source of information

Pindar worked on lyric poetry.^[16] The largest part of his surviving works is the Victory Odes (Epinikia), chorus songs to be sung in the homeland of the winner of the Games upon his return.

The Greek aristocracy of the first half of the 5th century BC, mainly the tyrants of Sicily and the conservative aristocracy of Aegina, constituted the clientele of the poet. Thus, his Odes of Victory reflect the aristocratic ideals which were losing ground so fast. The winner's laudation is reinforced by adding mythological details. However, a prerequisite for understanding and cherishing the poems is a well-educated audience. The poet uses his work not only to speak of the victory won by his client and his family, but also to accentuate the family's history and its connections all over Greece.

Based off of the surviving 12 Pythian Victory odes and the information they describe a list of the known winners and the events they won can be established:

In 498 B.C. Hippokles from Thessaly won at the children's diaulos (10th Pythionicus).

In 490 B.C. Midas from Akragas won at the musical contests as a flute player (12th Pythionicus).

In 486 B.C. Megakles from Athens won at the chariot racing (7th Pythionicus).

In 475 (?) and in 474(?) B.C. Hieron of Syracuse won the chariot racing (2nd Pythionicus).

In 474 Thrasydaeus from Thebes won at the children's stadium (11th Pythionicus) and Telesikrates from Cyrene won at the armed race (9th Pythionicus).

In 470 B.C. Hieron from Aetna won at the chariot racing (1st Pythinicus).

In 462/1 B.C. Arkesilaus from Cyrene won at the chariot racing (4th and 5th Pythionikoi).

In 446 BCE Aristomenes of Aegea won the boys' wrestling contest (8th Pythianicus). ^[17]

Modern Day Pythian Games

Since the official end of the ancient Pythian Games there have been several attempts at its revival. Recently, Bijender Goel has founded a modern global Pythian Games inspired by the Ancient Pythian Games. These games will be focused not only on athletics but on celebrating culture, heritage, music, dance, and art.

References

Template:Reflist

External links

Template:Sister project

Modern Pythian Games
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India paves the way to modern Pythian Games
Zee5 India paves the way to modern Pythian Games
Assia News India paves the way to modern Pythian Games
Maghreb Observateur
Bijander Goel founder modern Pythian Games
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jY4kRyZapsg

Template:Multi-sport events Template:Coord

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↑ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j Pausanias. Description of Greece 10.7 Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.
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↑ Spears, Betty. "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece." Journal of Sport History, vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.
↑ ^a ^b ^c Segrave, Jeffrey O. The Pythian Games: The Real Modern Olympic Games
↑ Spears, Betty. "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece." Journal of Sport History, vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.
↑ Pausanias. Description of Greece 6.14 Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.
↑ Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937
↑ Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937
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[Paus_10.7-4] ↑ ^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j Pausanias. Description of Greece 10.7 Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.

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[8] Smith, William. A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities

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[:3-11] Spears, Betty. "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece." Journal of Sport History, vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.

[Segrave-12] Segrave, Jeffrey O. The Pythian Games: The Real Modern Olympic Games

[13] Spears, Betty. "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece." Journal of Sport History, vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.

[Paus_6.14-14] Pausanias. Description of Greece 6.14 Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.

[:5-15] Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937

[16] Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937

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@@ Line 2: / Line 2: @@
 {{For|modern Delphic Games|Delphic Games of the modern era}}
 {{More citations needed|date=November 2019}}
-[[File:Αρχαίο στάδιο Δελφών2.jpg|thumb|260px|The [[stadium of Delphi]], Greece]]
+[[File:Sanctuary_of_Apollo_at_Delphi_from_the_Phaedriades_01.jpg|thumb|Sanctuary of Apollo with Delphic Stadium from the Phaedriades. Delphi, Greece.|242x242px]]
-[[Image:Delphi stadium starting line DSC06301.jpg|thumb|upright|This starting line at the Delphi stadium used for the Pythian Games at Delphi, Greece, has a design representative of that of many ancient Greek stadiums: stones with two lines in which the athletes nudged their toes, and round holes in which posts could be erected to support the start signalling mechanism.]]
+The '''Pythian Games''' ({{langx|grc|Τὰ Πύθια|Ta Pythia}}) were one of the four [[Panhellenic Games]] of [[Ancient Greece]]. Founded circa the 6th century BCE, the festival was held in honor of the god [[Apollo]] and took place at his sanctuary in [[Delphi]] to commemorate the mytho-historic slaying of [[Python (mythology)|Python]] and the establishment of the [[Pythia|Oracle at Delphi]]. The Pythian Games took place every four years, two years after the [[Ancient Olympic Games|Olympic Games]], and between each [[Nemean Games|Nemean]] and [[Isthmian Games]]. They continued until the 4th century AD.[[File:Plan Delphi full.svg|thumb|Site plan of the archaeological area of Delphi, Greece.]]The Pythian Games, which were ranked second in importance behind the Olympics, primarily and originally focused on competitions for art and dance. As the Pythian Games evolved over time athletic events were added and some events allowed for the participation of women.
-The '''Pythian Games''' ({{langx|grc|Τὰ Πύθια|Ta Pythia}}) were one of the four [[Panhellenic Games]] of [[Ancient Greece]]. They were held in honour of [[Apollo]] at his sanctuary in [[Delphi]] every four years, two years after the [[Ancient Olympic Games|Olympic Games]], and between each [[Nemean Games|Nemean]] and [[Isthmian Games]]. The Pythian Games were founded sometime in the 6th century BC. In legend they were started by Apollo after he killed [[Python (mythology)|Python]] and set up the [[Pythia|Oracle at Delphi]]. They continued until the 4th century AD.
+== Mythical origins ==
+According to ancient Greek Mythology, the Pythian Games are founded with the slaying of the mythical serpent, [[Python (mythology)|Python]] by the god Apollo in his search for a good location to establish his temple.<ref name=":2">{{cite web |title=Ovid, The Metamorphoses, 1.445-6 |url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.02.0028%3Abook%3D1%3Acard%3D416}}</ref> After being directed to the area by Telphusa and coming across a spring, Python sprung forth and attacked him. Apollo slew the serpent with his bow and established the area of Delphi safe for humans and declared his ownership of the site.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hymn 3 to Apollo, line 1 |url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0013.tlg003.perseus-eng1:3 |access-date=2025-05-17 |website=www.perseus.tufts.edu}}</ref> After burying the body, Apollo founded the [[Delphic Sibyl|oracle of Delphi]]. In some versions of the myth, by slaying Python, Apollo was guilty of a crime and [[Zeus]] declared that he had to make amends. In order to do so Apollo founded the Pythian Games. {{citation needed|date=March 2020}} Other versions of the legend state that Apollo established the games to celebrate his victory over Python.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Python {{!}} Python, Delphi & Oracle {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Python-Greek-mythology |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":2" />
-The Pythian Games were ranked second in importance behind the Olympics. Unlike the Olympics, the Pythian Games also featured competitions for art and dance, which pre-dated the athletic portion of the games, and women were allowed to take part in some events. Victors received a wreath of [[bay laurel]], sacred to Apollo, from the Vale of [[Vale of Tempe|Tempe]], in [[Thessaly]]. Smaller versions of the Pythian Games were celebrated in many other cities of the [[Levant]] and Greece.
+"Lest in a dark oblivion time should hide[[File:Apollo_killing_the_Python_snake,_RF_3462_(351).jpg|thumb|370x370px|Apollo Killing Python, Louvre]]the fame of this achievement, sacred sports
-== Mythology ==
+he instituted, from the Python called
-The Pythian Games supposedly start with the death of the mythical serpent, [[Python (mythology)|Python]]. [[Ovid]] states that the games were inaugurated to celebrate [[Apollo]]'s killing of the serpent, "Lest in a dark oblivion time should hide
-the fame of this achievement, sacred sports
-he instituted" (''Metamorphoses,'' 1.445-6).<ref>{{cite web|title = Ovid, The Metamorphoses, 1.445-6|url = https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.02.0028%3Abook%3D1%3Acard%3D416}}</ref> According to Ovid, the python was produced spontaneously by Gaea (mother earth) at the beginning of primordial time and was a threat to human beings.
-When Earth, spread over with diluvian ooze,<br>
+“The Pythian Games.” In these the happy youth
-felt heat ethereal from the glowing sun,<br>
-unnumbered species to the light she gave,<br>
-and gave to being many an ancient form,<br>
-or monster new created. Unwilling she<br>
-created this enormous Python.—Thou<br>
-unheard of serpent spread so far athwart<br>
-the side of a vast mountain, didst fill with fear<br>
-the race of newly created man. The God<br>
-that bears the bow (a weapon used till then<br>
-only to hunt the deer and agile goat)<br>
-destroyed the monster with myriad darts,<br>
-and almost emptied all his quiver, till<br>
-envenomed gore oozed forth from livid wounds.
--- ''Metamorphoses, 1.434-444.''
+who proved victorious in the chariot race,
-By killing the monster, Apollo rendered the area safe for human beings and established his ownship of the site.
+running and boxing, with an honoured crown
-After burying the body, Apollo founded the [[Delphic Sibyl|oracle of Delphi]]. However, by slaying Python, Apollo had committed a crime and [[Zeus]] declared that he had to make amends.  Apollo then created the Pythian Games to pay for the death.{{citation needed|date=March 2020}} Other versions of the legend state that Apollo established the games to celebrate his victory over the python.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Python {{!}} Python, Delphi & Oracle {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Python-Greek-mythology |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref>
+of oak leaves was enwreathed. The laurel then
+was not created, wherefore Phoebus, bright
+and godlike, beauteous with his flowing hair,
+was wont to wreathe his brows with various leaves."
+-- -- ''[https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:latinLit:phi0959.phi006.perseus-eng1:1.416-1.451 Metamorphoses], 1.416-451''
 ==History==
-[[Image:Delphi charioteer front DSC06255.JPG|thumb|left|upright|The Pythian Games included a [[chariot]] race.]]
+[[Image:Delphi charioteer front DSC06255.JPG|thumb|Statue of a charioteer  Delphi, Greece.|354x354px|left]]
-The historical timeframe of the Pythian Games started in 582 BC, when the administration of the Games was handed over to the [[Amphictyonic League#The Delphic Amphictyony|Delphic Amphictyony]], a council of twelve Greek tribes, at the end of the [[First Sacred War]]. As of that time, they did not take place every eight years as in the past, but every four years, two years before and after the Olympic Games, presumably at the end of August.<ref>[[William Smith (lexicographer)|Smith, William]]. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=9e47AQAAMAAJ A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities]''</ref>
+Originally, the Pythian Games were held as a musical event, focused around singing a hymn in honor of the god Apollo. <ref name="Paus 10.7">[[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]]. ''Description of Greece'' [http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0525.tlg001.perseus-eng1:10.7 10.7] Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.</ref> Later, administration of the games shifted to the [[Amphictyonic League#The Delphic Amphictyony|Delphic Amphictyony]], a council of twelve Greek tribes, and the Pythian Games were reorganized.<ref name=":4">{{Citation |last=Richardson |first=N. J. |title=Panhellenic Cults and Panhellenic Poets |date=1992 |work=The Cambridge Ancient History: Volume 5: The Fifth Century BC |volume=5 |pages=223–244 |editor-last=Lewis |editor-first=David M. |url=https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/cambridge-ancient-history/panhellenic-cults-and-panhellenic-poets/6DFA271D8B78066AF09F27167BDA9FE8 |access-date=2025-06-07 |series=The Cambridge Ancient History |edition=2 |place=Cambridge |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-0-521-23347-7 |editor2-last=Davies |editor2-first=J. K. |editor3-last=Boardman |editor3-first=John |editor4-last=Ostwald |editor4-first=M.}}</ref> <ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last=Kyle |first=Donald G |title=Panhellenic Sacred Crown Games and More. In Sport and Spectacle in the Ancient World |date=2014 |publisher=United States: John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated |year=2014 |isbn=9781118613566 |edition=Vol. 5 |pages=194-196 |language=English}}</ref> New events were introduced, including an expansion of music focused events and the eventual introduction of athletic events.<ref name=":4" /> The expanded Pythian Games were first held around the end of the [[First Sacred War]], circa 586/582 BCE. <ref>{{Cite book |last=Crowther |first=Nigel B. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PbPOEAAAQBAJ&lpg=PR7&ots=3b6iuOqXx4&dq=women%20in%20ancient%20greek%20sport&lr&pg=PR18#v=onepage&q=women%20in%20ancient%20greek%20sport&f=false |title=Sport in Ancient Times |date=2007-01-30 |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing USA |isbn=978-0-313-05124-1 |language=en}}</ref> It was also during this time that the Pythian Games shifted from being held every eight years as in the past, to every four years, two years before and after the Olympic Games, near the end of August.<ref>[[William Smith (lexicographer)|Smith, William]]. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=9e47AQAAMAAJ A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities]''</ref><ref name=":4" />
+Despite the rise of Christianity in the [[Roman Empire]] during the 4th century, Delphi remained an active pagan site and the Pythian Games continued to be celebrated at least until AD 424.<ref name="ODB">{{cite encyclopedia|title = Delphi|last = Gregory|first = Timothy E.|page = 602|editor-first = Alexander|editor-last = Kazhdan|editor-link=Alexander Kazhdan|encyclopedia = [[Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium]]|location = London and New York|publisher = Oxford University Press|year = 1991|isbn = 978-0-19-504652-6}}</ref>
+== The Games ==
+=== Preparations ===
+The preparations for the games began six months prior. '''{{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}''' During this time, nine Delphian [[theoroi]], were sent out to all Greek city-cities to announce the beginning of the games.This served both to attract those who might wish to participate in the games, as well as to declare the period of the Sacred Truce or ([[Hieromenia]]). Once the Hieromenia was declared all violent conflict had to end in order to ensure safe passage to all those who wished to attend the Games. '''{{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}''' If a city was involved in armed conflict or in robberies during that period, its citizens were forbidden to enter the Sanctuary, participate in the games, or consult the Oracle. Additionally, the truce allowed the Amphictyony to focus on preparing for the games, which included restorations for all structures of the Sanctuary, from the temples to the streets and fountains. '''{{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}''' Scores of people flocked to the games from all over Greece, bringing in substantial revenue to the city. {{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}[[File:Delphi_stadium_starting_line_DSC06301.jpg|thumb|Starting line at the Delphi stadium used for the Pythian Games. Delphi, Greece.|324x324px]]
+=== Overview ===
+The festival itself was held around the months of August and September. <ref name=":4" /> Records from [[Aristotle]] present an overview of the festivities: the Games lasted for six to eight days and were started by a reenactment of the victory of Apollo over Python. In a festive and glamorous procession, a ritual sacrifice was performed in the [[Temple of Apollo (Delphi)|Temple of Apollo]]. After four days of festivities, the Games began. '''{{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}'''.
-Preparations for the games began six months prior. Nine citizens from Delphi, called [[theoroi]], were sent to all Greek cities to announce the beginning of the games in order to attract athletes, as well as to declare the period of the Sacred Truce ([[Hieromenia]]), aiming at protecting not only the theoroi and the athletes who traveled to Delphi but also the temple of Apollo itself. If a city was involved in armed conflict or in robberies during that period, its citizens were forbidden to enter the Sanctuary, participate in the games, or consult the Oracle. At the same time, the truce allowed the Amphictyony to focus on preparing for the games, which included restorations for all structures of the Sanctuary, from the temples to the streets and fountains. Scores of people flocked to the games from all over Greece, bringing in substantial revenue to the city. {{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}
+Although the main Pythian Games took place in Delphi, smaller, informal versions of the games were held and celebrated in other cities. <ref>{{Cite web |title=LacusCurtius • Greek Religion — Pythia (Smith's Dictionary, 1875) |url=https://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/secondary/SMIGRA*/Pythia.html |access-date=2025-06-08 |website=penelope.uchicago.edu}}</ref>
-Despite the rise of Christianity in the [[Roman Empire]] during the 4th century, Delphi remained an active pagan site and the Pythian Games continued to be celebrated at least until AD 424.<ref name="ODB">{{cite encyclopedia|title = Delphi|last = Gregory|first = Timothy E.|page = 602|editor-first = Alexander|editor-last = Kazhdan|editor-link=Alexander Kazhdan|encyclopedia = [[Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium]]|location = London and New York|publisher = Oxford University Press|year = 1991|isbn = 978-0-19-504652-6}}</ref>
+The Pythian and ancient Olympic games shared many athletic and equestrian events, however the Pythinan games did not include a four-horse chariot race but did, instead add additional running races for boys.<ref name="Paus 10.7" />
-== Overview ==
+==== Women in the Pythian Games ====
-Unfortunately, the testimonials and documents covering the Pythian Games were mainly destroyed by human violence and natural catastrophes. All the remaining resources highlight the glory and glamour of the Games. The records of [[Aristotle]] present an overview of the festivities: the Games lasted for six to eight days and were started by a reenactment of the victory of Apollo over Python. In a festive and glamorous procession, a ritual sacrifice was performed in the [[Temple of Apollo (Delphi)|Temple of Apollo]]. After four days of festivities, the Games began.
+Although the ability to participate in ancient Greek athletic realms, including the Panhellenic games was limited for women, the Pythian games were an exception. Unlike at [[ancient Olympic Games|Olympia]] where there was a separate festival for women (the [[Heraean Games]]), women were allowed to compete at Delphi in both athletic and artistic events. Athletic events that allowed for the participation for women were most likely gender exclusive and not co-ed.<ref name=":3">Spears, Betty. [http://www.jstor.org/stable/43609020 "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece."] ''Journal of Sport History'', vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.</ref> The only surviving record of a female victor at the Pythian Games is Tryphosa, who won the girl's [[stadion (running race)|stadion running race]].<ref name="Segrave" /><ref>Spears, Betty. [http://www.jstor.org/stable/43609020 "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece."] ''Journal of Sport History'', vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.</ref>[[File:Αρχαίο στάδιο Δελφών2.jpg|thumb|260px|The [[stadium of Delphi]], Greece]]
-===Events===
+=== Athletic events ===
-The athletic and equestrian events were the same as those at Olympia, apart from the lack of the four-horse chariot, and the addition of running races for boys.<ref name="Paus 10.7" />
+The athletic contests took place in the Stadium. Overtime, various athletic competitions were introduced, some of which were adopted from the Olympic games. <ref name=":0" /> At it's peak, the athletic competition included four-track sports: [[Stadion (running race)|stade]], [[Diaulos (running race)|diaulos]], [[Dolichos (race)|dolichos]] and [[hoplitodromos]] (racing encumbered with pieces of [[Hoplite]] armor), as well as [[wrestling]], [[boxing]], [[pankration]], and the [[pentathlon]].
-Unlike at [[ancient Olympic Games|Olympia]] where there was a separate festival for women (the [[Heraean Games]]), women were allowed to compete at Delphi in both athletic and artistic events. The only recorded female victor is Tryphosa, winner of the girl's [[stadion (running race)|stadion running race]].<ref name=Segrave /><ref>Spears, Betty. [http://www.jstor.org/stable/43609020 "A Perspective of the History of Women's Sport in Ancient Greece."] ''Journal of Sport History'', vol. 11, no. 2, 1984, pp. 32–47. Accessed 2 Dec. 2020.</ref>
+=== Equestrian events ===
+The final day of the games was dedicated to equestrian races, which were held in a [[hippodrome]] in the plain of Krisa,<ref name=":0" /> not far from the sea, in the place where the original stadium was sited. (ref: [[Pindar]]). At the peak of the Pythian Games the list of equestrian events included:
-The athletic competition included four-track sports: [[Stadion (running race)|stade]], [[Diaulos (running race)|diaulos]], [[Dolichos (race)|dolichos]] and [[hoplitodromos]] (racing encumbered with pieces of [[Hoplite]] armor), as well as [[wrestling]], [[boxing]], [[pankration]], and the [[pentathlon]]. These sports were introduced to the games gradually over time. The final day of the games was dedicated to equestrian races which gradually came to include harness racing, [[synoris]] (a chariot drawn by two horses), a chariot drawn by four horses, and racing with a horse (without a chariot), held in a [[hippodrome]] in the plain of Krisa, not far from the sea, in the place where the original stadium was sited. (ref: [[Pindar]]) The other athletic contests took place in the Stadium.
+* Harness racing
+* [[Synoris]] - a two horse chariot race for foals (338 BCE).<ref name=":0" /> <ref name="Paus 10.7" />
+* A four horse chariot race (852 BCE).
+* Keles - a horse race for foals (314 BCE). <ref name=":0" /><ref name="Paus 10.7" />
-In the Roman period theatrical competitions were introduced, carried out in the late-[[Hellenistic]] [[Roman theatre (structure)|theater]].
+=== Artistic events ===
 ====Music====
-[[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]] writing in the 2nd century AD, says the oldest contest at Delphi was the singing of a hymn to Apollo, god of arts and music. The first Games run by the [[Amphictyonic League#Delphic Amphictyony|Delphic Amphictyony]], which he dates to the third year of the forty-eighth [[Olympiad]] (i.e. 586&nbsp; BC) featured contests of singing accompanied by [[cithara]] (a lyre), and separate contests for playing the [[aulos]] (a [[double reed|double-reeded]] wind instrument) solo, and accompanied. The latter of these was abolished by the second Games because the music was considered "ill-omened" with dismal tunes accompanied by lamentations.<ref name=" Paus 10.7"/> Pythocritus of Sicyon was aulos victor at six consecutive festivals, the only player so to distinguish himself. He accompanied the pentathlon at the Olympics where a statue was erected to him.<ref name="Paus 6.14">[[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]]. ''Description of Greece'' [http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0525.tlg001.perseus-eng1:6.14 6.14] Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.</ref>
+Musical events in the Pythian Games held prominence, as the oldest contest at Delphi was the singing of a hymn to Apollo, god of arts and music. <ref name="Paus 10.7" />
+The first Games run by the [[Amphictyonic League#Delphic Amphictyony|Delphic Amphictyony]], which are dated to the third year of the forty-eighth [[Olympiad]] (586 BCE) featured contests of singing accompanied by [[cithara]] (a lyre).<ref name=":0" /> The introduction of a cithara contest without vocals was made during eighth Pythian Games.<ref name="Paus 10.7" />
+Contests for playing the [[aulos]] (a [[double reed|double-reeded]] wind instrument) both solo and accompanied and contests for singing to the aulos were added. <ref name="Paus 10.7" /><ref name=":0" /> The latter of these was abolished by the second Games because the music was considered "ill-omened" with dismal tunes accompanied by lamentations.<ref name="Paus 10.7" />
-Pausanias ascribes the introduction of the cithara contest without vocals to the eighth Pythian Games.<ref name=" Paus 10.7">[[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]]. ''Description of Greece'' [http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0525.tlg001.perseus-eng1:10.7 10.7] Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.</ref>
+Pythocritus of Sicyon was aulos victor at six consecutive festivals, the only player so to distinguish himself. His playing accompanied the pentathlon at the Olympics where a statue was erected to him.<ref name="Paus 6.14">[[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]]. ''Description of Greece'' [http://data.perseus.org/citations/urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0525.tlg001.perseus-eng1:6.14 6.14] Translated by W.H.S. Jones, and H.A. Ormerod. Cambridge, MA, Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1918.</ref>
 ====Poetry, prose and drama====
-Poetry and prose contests were another feature of the Pythian Games. A panel of judges chose victors. Contests of [[Tragedy|Tragic acting]] probably involved both individual performances and dramatic productions.<ref name=Segrave>Segrave, Jeffrey O. ''The Pythian Games: The Real Modern Olympic Games''</ref>
+Poetry and prose contests were another feature of the Pythian Games. These events were held in a theater above the Temple of Apollo.<ref name=":0" /> A panel of judges chose victors. Contests of [[Tragedy|Tragic acting]] probably involved both individual performances and dramatic productions.<ref name=Segrave>Segrave, Jeffrey O. ''The Pythian Games: The Real Modern Olympic Games''</ref>
 ====Painting====
 Painting competitions were introduced in the mid-5th century BC.<ref name=Segrave />
+==== Later Roman Additions ====
+In the Roman period theatrical competitions were introduced, carried out in the late-[[Hellenistic]] [[Roman theatre (structure)|theater]]. '''{{citation needed|reason=This entire paragraph is lacking any citations. These claims need reliable sources.|date=July 2016}}'''
 ===Prizes===
-No monetary prizes were awarded to winners in the Games. Instead they received a wreath of [[bay laurel]], sacred to Apollo, from the Vale of [[Vale of Tempe|Tempe]], in [[Thessaly]]. This is similar to the practice in the other Panhellenic games, which were all on this account called "stephanitic" ("crown") games. Smaller versions of the Pythian Games were celebrated in many other cities of the [[Levant]] and Greece.
+During the primary years of the Pythian games, where there were fewer events and the competitions were music based, prizes were given to the victors. These prizes may have consisted of golden tripods. <ref name=":0" /> As the games evolved and expanded and grew more popular across the ancient Greek world, prizes ceased to be handed out. In 582 BCE the Pythian games became "stephanitic" or "crown" games'''.''' <ref name=":0" /><ref name="Paus 10.7" /> As such, no monetary prizes were awarded to winners of the Pythian Games. Instead they received a wreath of [[bay laurel]], sacred to Apollo, from the Vale of [[Vale of Tempe|Tempe]], in [[Thessaly]]. <ref name="Paus 10.7" />
 ==Pindar and the Pythionikoi==
-Of the 45 poems composed by the Theban poet [[Pindar]] in honor of winners at the Panhellenic games, 12 were called ''Pythionikoi'', since they were composed for winners at the Pythian Games. In those poems, Pindar praises not only the victors, but also their families, as well as the aristocratic and athletic ideals of the late [[Archaic Greece|archaic]] period.
+[[Pindar]], a well renowned Theban poet, composed 45 poems in honor of the victors of the Panhellenic games. Of those poems, 12 were composed for the winners of the Pythian games and titled ''Pythionikoi.'' These poems, which were primarily focused on recounting the honor and glory of the victors, also praised their families. <ref name=":5">Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937</ref> Furthermore, the poems provide insight into the aristocratic and athletic ideals of the late [[Archaic Greece|archaic]] period.
 ===The Pythionikoi as a source of information===
 Pindar worked on lyric poetry.<ref>Pindar. The Odes of Pindar including the Principal Fragments with an Introduction and an English Translation by Sir John Sandys, Litt.D., FBA. Cambridge, MA., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann Ltd. 1937</ref> The largest part of his surviving works is the Victory Odes (Epinikia), chorus songs to be sung in the homeland of the winner of the Games upon his return.
-The Greek aristocracy of the first half of the 5th century BC, mostly the tyrants of [[Sicily]] and the conservative aristocracy of [[Aegina]], constituted the clientele of the poet. Thus, his Odes  of Victory reflect the aristocratic ideals which were losing ground so fast.
+The Greek aristocracy of the first half of the 5th century BC, mainly the tyrants of [[Sicily]] and the conservative aristocracy of [[Aegina]], constituted the clientele of the poet. Thus, his Odes  of Victory reflect the aristocratic ideals which were losing ground so fast.
 The winner's laudation is reinforced by adding mythological details. However, a prerequisite for understanding and cherishing the poems is a well-educated audience. The poet uses his work not only to speak of the victory won by his client and his family, but also to accentuate the family's history and its connections all over Greece.
-The total number of Victory Odes  is 45 celebrating the winners in the four most famous panhellenic athletic competitions: the [[Olympic Games|Olympic]], the [[Nemean Games|Nemean]], the Pythian and the [[Isthmian Games]]. The hymns celebrating victories in Pythian Games include 12 odes and offer information on the exact competition of each athlete.
+Based off of the surviving 12 Pythian Victory odes and the information they describe a list of the known winners and the events they won can be established:
-Thus, we can constitute a list of the winners as follows:
 In 498 B.C. Hippokles from Thessaly won at the children's diaulos (10th Pythionicus).
@@ Line 92: / Line 106: @@
 In 470 B.C. Hieron from Aetna won at the chariot racing (1st Pythinicus).
-Finally, in 462/1 B.C. Arkesilaus from [[Cyrene, Libya|Cyrene]] won at the chariot racing (4th and 5th Pythionikoi).
+In 462/1 B.C. Arkesilaus from [[Cyrene, Libya|Cyrene]] won at the chariot racing (4th and 5th Pythionikoi).
+In 446 BCE Aristomenes of Aegea won the boys' wrestling contest (8th Pythianicus). <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Lefkowitz |first=Mary R. |date=1977 |title=Pindar's Pythian 8 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/3296897 |journal=The Classical Journal |volume=72 |issue=3 |pages=209–221 |issn=0009-8353}}</ref>
+== Modern Day Pythian Games ==
+Since the official end of the ancient Pythian Games there have been several attempts at its revival. Recently, Bijender Goel has founded a modern global [https://pythiangames.org/ Pythian Games] inspired by the Ancient Pythian Games. These games will be focused not only on athletics but on celebrating culture, heritage, music, dance, and art.
 == References ==
@@ Line 99: / Line 118: @@
 == External links ==
 {{commons category|Pythian Games}}
-* [https://pythiangames.com/ Pythian Games]
+*
-* [https://pythian.org/ International Pythian Council]
 * [https://pythiangames.org/ Modern Pythian Games]
-* [http://ecumenical-delphic-committee.org/ Ecumenical Delphic Union]
-* [https://www.afternoonnews.in/pythian-council-gets-coimbatore-based-state-conveners/ Pythian council gets coimbatore based state conveners]
 *{{Cite AV media| title = Delphi: The Bellybutton of the Ancient World | url= http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00w4jtx| access-date = 24 April 2015| author = Michael Scott| work = BBC 4| minutes = 20:56|ref=none}}
 *[https://edtimes.in/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games/ India paves the way to modern Pythian Games]
-*[https://www.uniindia.com/pressrelease/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games Indian paves the way to modern Pythian Games Uni India]
-*[https://www.apnlive.com/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games/ APN Live Indian paves the way to modern Pythian Games]
 *[https://www.zee5.com/articles/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games Zee5 India paves the way to modern Pythian Games]
 *[https://assianews.com/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games/12183/ Assia News India paves the way to modern Pythian Games]
-*[https://theoneindia.in/index.php/2022/04/06/india-paves-the-way-to-modern-pythian-games/ The One India - India paves the way to modern Pythian Games]
 *[https://maghreb-observateur.com/?p=14365 Maghreb Observateur]
 *[https://www.polismagazino.gr/bijender-goel-founder-modern-pythian-games/ Bijander Goel founder modern Pythian Games]
-*[https://maghreb-observateur.com/?cat=99 Maghreb Observateur]
-*[https://delphiforum.gr/bijender-goel Bijender Goel]
 *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jY4kRyZapsg
-*[http://pythiangames.org/ Official website]

Pythian Games: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 18:38, 19 June 2025

Contents

Mythical origins

History

The Games

Preparations

Overview

Women in the Pythian Games

Athletic events

Equestrian events

Artistic events

Music

Poetry, prose and drama

Painting

Later Roman Additions

Prizes

Pindar and the Pythionikoi

The Pythionikoi as a source of information

Modern Day Pythian Games

References

External links

Navigation menu

Pythian Games: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 18:38, 19 June 2025

Mythical origins

History

The Games

Preparations

Overview

Women in the Pythian Games

Athletic events

Equestrian events

Artistic events

Music

Poetry, prose and drama

Painting

Later Roman Additions

Prizes

Pindar and the Pythionikoi

The Pythionikoi as a source of information

Modern Day Pythian Games

References

External links

Navigation menu

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