it is said to be the birthplace of
Asklepios, the healer god son of Apollo.
In fact, Epidaurus has the most popular health centre of ancient times, called the Asclepieion. During the 4th and the 3rd centuries BC, this building was enlarged and partly reconstructed, as part of a Roman demanding program destined to monumental buildings. The project was successful and its benefits extended over the Hellenistic times.
Famous because of Asklepios sanctuary, Epidaurus used to receive sick persons from all over Greece in ancient times. As the older Apollo Maleatas sanctuary -built on the hill- became attested and was no longer roomy enough for them to have the chance of a cure for their health disorders, Asklepios sanctuary opened.
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only sanctuaries, but also temples and baths to help patients recover from various diseases. Those who had skin disorders were the ones who got most benefit from those bath-based treatments, and they could also benefit from the gym or the high level games held on the sanctuary’s premises. Both patients and physicians had access to the relevant library in the area.
Although most diseased people came to Epidaurus to get a miraculous cure, they usually had to stay and undergo some treatment. They also used to take natural baths, to have a rest before going back to their place of origin, to thank Asklepios or reflect and go on a diet. Whether Asklepios made any miracles or not remains a secret, but no doubt those diseased visitors used to recover their health to a certain extent after thorough natural treatments and went back to their homes in a better health condition. |
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the theatre can
also become an arena where wrestling is practised. All these activities were extensively practised in this place during ancient times, and they come to life every now and then in our days.
The remarkable acoustics of the place allow actors' voices to be heard all over the place, and they do not need to be amplified. The fact that it can receive up to 14.000 spectators and they all can hear the non amplified performance perfectly well, no matter their location within the amphitheatre, makes it a unique piece of architecture of all times.
Visiting these marvellous places is the best way of getting to know the History of Epidaurus, as its historical heritage is still there and working, for the delight of tourists and history lovers as well. |
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