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Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus

Epidauros, Greece
07.05.2019

Asklepios-Heiligtum bei Epidauros, located in the small town of Epidauros in Greece, is a renowned ancient healing sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god of medicine, Asklepios. This sacred site, also known as the Sanctuary of Asklepios, dates back to the 4th century BC and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

The sanctuary was built around a natural spring, believed to have healing powers, which was dedicated to Asklepios. It was believed that the god himself would appear in the form of a snake to heal those who came seeking his help. As a result, snakes were considered sacred in this sanctuary and were often used in healing rituals.

The Asklepios-Heiligtum bei Epidauros was not just a place of physical healing, but also a center for spiritual and mental well-being. Patients would come from all over the Mediterranean to seek treatment, which often involved a combination of physical therapies, herbal remedies, and spiritual rituals. The sanctuary also had a theater where patients were able to attend performances and participate in music, dance, and drama therapy.

The architecture of the sanctuary is a testament to the advanced engineering and medical knowledge of the ancient Greeks. The most famous structure is the Tholos, a circular temple dedicated to Asklepios, with impressive marble columns and intricate carvings. The Abaton, a dormitory for patients, is another notable structure with its well-preserved mosaic floors and marble walls.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the sanctuary and learn about the ancient healing practices and beliefs of the Greeks. The site also includes a museum with a collection of artifacts and statues related to Asklepios and his healing cult. The Asklepieion Festival, held every four years, is a reenactment of the ancient healing rituals and is a popular event for tourists and locals alike.

Asklepios-Heiligtum bei Epidauros is not only a significant historical site but also a place of tranquility and healing. Its serene surroundings, natural springs, and ancient ruins make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Greek mythology, history, or holistic wellness.


In a small valley in the Peloponnesus, the shrine of Asklepios, the god of medicine, developed out of a much earlier cult of Apollo (Maleatas), during the 6th century BC at the latest, as the official cult of the city state of Epidaurus. Its principal monuments, particularly the temple of Asklepios, the Tholos and the Theatre - considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture – date from the 4th century. The vast site, with its temples and hospital buildings devoted to its healing gods, provides valuable insight into the healing cults of Greek and Roman times.

The Sanctuary of Asclepius was a sanctuary in Epidaurus dedicated to Asclepius. Especially in the Classical and Hellenistic periods, it was the main holy site of Asclepius. The sanctuary at Epidaurus was the rival of such major cult sites as the Sanctuary of Zeus at Olympia and Apollo at Delphi. The temple was built in the early 4th century BC. If still in use by the 4th century AD, the temple would have been closed during the persecution of pagans in the late Roman Empire, when the Christian Emperors issued edicts prohibiting non-Christian worship. In 1988, the temple was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its exceptional architecture and its importance in the development and spread of healing sanctuaries (asclepeion) throughout Classical Antiquity.

wikipedia.org