Archaeologists in Pompeii have uncovered breathtaking frescoes from the 40-30s BC, depicting the Greek god Dionysus and his secretive cult rituals. Preserved under volcanic ash since Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, these vivid artworks adorn a banquet hall, offering a rare window into ancient life and beliefs from the time of Jesus.
Tag: Dionysus
The streets of Athens’ historic center were filled with color, music, and an intense Dionysian…
Holidays and rituals have always been integral to human culture, deeply rooted in community and society. While Western festive days are largely based on Christian traditions, many of these customs can trace their origins to Ancient Greece and Rome. Christmas, for example, is widely believed to have evolved from pagan celebrations of the winter solstice. Although the Bible does not specify the exact date of Christ’s birth, December 25th was likely chosen to coincide with the Roman winter solstice festival, Die Natalis Solis Invicti, celebrating the “Unconquered Sun.” This date also aligns with the symbolism of Christ as the “light that shines in the darkness,” reinforcing the connection between solar and religious traditions.
During the construction of a water pipeline on the Greek island of Euboea, workers uncovered a stunning 2,400-year-old mosaic depicting dancing satyrs. This artwork, dating back to the mid-fourth century BCE, features two mythical figures playing music and dancing, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek culture and artistic expression. The mosaic was found in Eretria, an ancient town on Euboea, and is in exceptional condition. To protect the site, construction has been rerouted, and the mosaic is now covered for preservation.
Described as possessing “astonishing beauty”, two heads of ancient statues of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and Dionysus, the god of wine, have been uncovered in an archaeological dig in the ancient Greek city of Aizanoi.
Dionysus, alternatively named Bacchus, Iacchus, Zagreus, Sabazius, or Liber Pater (as well as dozens of…
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games has ignited a fierce debate, with notable figures including former US President Donald Trump and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew voicing strong disapproval. The event’s portrayal of controversial themes has been met with sharp criticism, especially from Christian communities. In response, Paris 2024 organizers and directors defended their intentions, emphasizing a message of inclusivity and community.
Bacchanalia were infamous Greco-Roman festivals dedicated to Bacchus, the god of wine. Originating as secretive rituals in Greece and later adopted by the Romans, these events were known for their extravagant, multi-day celebrations that included feasts, animal sacrifices, and rumored debauchery. Despite the Roman Senate banning them in 186 B.C. due to their wild nature, the festivities continued in secret for years.
April 27, 1924: Greece proposes to send one of its archaeological treasures, a statue of…
Spectators return to the Ancient Theatre of Larissa after 22 centuries.
Holidays and rituals seem to have always been a universal aspect of the human experience,…
Spectators return to the Ancient Theatre of Larissa after 22 centuries.
The Greek islands are a distinguishing feature of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture across the ages, each with its own past and a story to tell about how it got its name.
Unique Ancient Winepress in Israel Depicting Greek Gods are the only ones from antiquity discovered that were built inside of a covered water reservoir, the largest of two arched-reservoirs part of the impressive water at Zippori
Holidays and rituals seem to have always been a universal aspect of the human experience,…
The World’s Best Vineyards 2022 have been revealed, with three of Greece’s most beautiful vineyards gracing the list.
The Greek islands are a distinguishing feature of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture across the ages, each with its own past and a story to tell about how it got its name.
The Greek Gods represent humanity at its best and worst. From the violent and destructive…
A new archaeological exhibition, on the theme of ancient theatre, is scheduled by the Museum…
Holidays and rituals seem to have always been a universal aspect of the human experience,…