Miejsce realizacji: Wydział Filologiczny i Wydział Historii i Archeologii (20 SH)
Adres: Lublin, Plac Marii Curie-Skłodowskiej 4a

In ancient Greece, the concept of "a healthy mind in a healthy body" was so significant that it was linked to religious concerns. In particular, the Greeks' worship of the gods of Mount Olympus inspired them to build sacred gardens with temples, a stadium, administrative buildings, and statues, where they hosted religious festivals and games. Through those activities, ancient Greeks honored their gods with their personal effort, arduous preparation, and glorious victories. As a result, the Panhellenic Games emerged, bringing joy and celebration to all Greeks. In chronological order, these were the Olympic Games, the Pythian Games, the Isthmian Games and, finally, the Nemean Games. Nevertheless, Olympian Gods did not serve only religious aspects; they were also guardians of order and laws. Likewise, all festivals in their honor also included these values in addition to religious beliefs.

This workshop aims to present the religious, educational, and political aspects of the ancient Panhellenic Games, focusing on the following questions:

1. What were the main features of the Panhellenic Games in terms of location, competitions, and prizes?
2. Who took part and what was the role of the “sacred truce” among the Greek city-states before the beginning of the games?
3. What was the moral of the Panhellenic Games in ancient Greece and how was this perceived through the figures of the gods and the punishments for offenders?

Promoting the sense of good sportsmanship of ancient and nowadays games, the workshop will begin with a presentation covering the topics listed above, followed by a short sack race competition in Maria Curie-Skłodowska Square. The maximum number of participants should be twenty due to the limited space. The winners will receive a gift that will always symbolize Greece together with a prize comparable to that of the ancient Panhellenic Games. Those who wish to participate should dress in white!

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Photo: own archive.