Description

The finest and most famous sanctuary of ancient Athens, dedicated primarily to its patron, the goddess Athena, dominates the centre of the city from a rocky crag known as the Acropolis. This sacred precinct became emblematic of the splendour, power, and wealth of Athens at the peak of its hegemony, the golden age of Perikles. 

This 8-week course explores the transformations of the Athenian Acropolis and its slopes from its earliest habitation to the late antique period, with special focus on the sixth and fifth centuries BC that saw the most intensive activity on the site. We examine the buildings and monuments erected on the sacred rock, their programs of sculptural decoration, the cults and religious festivals celebrated within the sacred precinct, the myths associated with them, and the role that they played in the life of the city. 

Classes will be conducted via Zoom on Tuesdays, 18:00-19:30 (UK local time) from 1st October. Dates for the term are 1st October, 8th October, 15th October, 22nd October, half-term on 29th October (no class), 5th November, 12th November, 19th November, 26th November 2024.

Tutor: Dr Katerina Kolotourou.

The class will proceed subject to a minimum number of enrolments.

Cancellation policy: students will receive a full refund if the student cancels their registration more than two weeks before the class begins. Students will receive 50% refund if the student cancels their registration 8-14 days before the class begins.