Eileithyia Cave

In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Eileithyia Cave, a topic that has captured the attention and interest of many people throughout history. From its origins to its impact today, Eileithyia Cave has been the subject of debate, reflection and study by experts and enthusiasts alike. Through a detailed analysis and an in-depth look, we will immerse ourselves in the most relevant and outstanding aspects related to Eileithyia Cave, offering a broad and enriching vision that will allow the reader to better understand its importance and relevance in today's society.

Eileithyia Cave
Cave of Eileithyia
Cave of Eileithyia
Shown within Greece
Alternative nameCave of Eileithyia
LocationCrete
RegionGreece
Coordinates35°19′29.2″N 25°12′21″E / 35.324778°N 25.20583°E / 35.324778; 25.20583
History
PeriodsNeolithic, Bronze Age

Eileithyia Cave (also the Cave of Eileithyia) was a sacred cave dedicated to the goddess of childbirth, Eileithyia, on the island of Crete. The site was used from the Neolithic to the Roman era, with worship flourishing in the Late Minoan period.[1] It is located one kilometre (0.6 mi) south of the town of Amnisos.

Description

It has been suggested that rock formations within the cave resemble female figures, most prominently a stalagmite in the centre that appears as a standing female.[1]

Archaeology

Eileithyia Cave was occupied by prehistoric human settlers from the Neolithic period until around 400 BCE. The archaeological discoveries made in the cave are on display at the Iraklion Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Iraklion. Pottery ranging from the Neolithic to Roman periods has been discovered in the cave, with the most significant number of finds coming from the Minoan era.[1] Four anthropomorphic vases from the Orientalizing period, which could be of Greek origin were found in the sanctuary.[2] They are similar to Egyptian vases that show Isis nursing her infant son Horus. The sanctuary is the largest collection of Egyptian and Egyptianizing artifacts on Crete.[2]

The cave was discovered by Christoforos Anerrapsis of Candia.[3]

Mythology

The cave is mentioned in Odysseus's Cretan narrative to Penelope in the Odyssey.

References

  1. ^ a b c Burket, Walter (1985). Greek Religion. Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing Ltd. and Harvard University Press. p. 30. ISBN 9780674362819.
  2. ^ a b Laskaris, Julie (2008). "Nursing Mothers in Greek and Roman Medicine". American Journal of Archaeology. 112 (3): 459–464. doi:10.3764/aja.112.3.459. JSTOR 20627484.
  3. ^ Genova, Aimee. "Strategies of Resistance: Cretan Archaeology and Political Networks during the Late 19th and Early 20th Century". Genova, A.m. 'Strategies of Resistance: Cretan Archaeology and Political Networks During the Late 19Th and Early 20Th Century' (PHD Dissertation, University of Chicago).


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