What does orthia mean?

Orthia as a girl’s name is of Greek origin meaning “straight”. It derives from the word “orthos”.

What was the importance of Artemis Orthia in this period?

Orthia was considered the goddess of salvation and fertility, as well as the protector of vegetation and was also thought to be a suitable goddess to ensure safe childbirth. Later on, the cult was linked to that of Artemis and the temple became a centre of religious education for youths.

What happened at the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia?

The Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia, an Archaic site devoted in Classical times to Artemis, was one of the most important religious sites in the Greek city-state of Sparta, and continued to be used into the fourth century CE, when all non-Christian worship was banned during the persecution of pagans in the late Roman …

What was found in the sanctuary of Artemis Orthia?

Other findings at the sanctuary – excavated by the British School at Athens in 1906 – included figurines made of terracotta and ivory, along with masks. The sheer number of offerings found at the site demonstrates the importance of the sanctuary. A winged female figure votive offering from the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia.

How is Artemis Orthia related to the bear?

It was suggested that Artemis Orthia and the bear were linked in ways that relate to mothering and the birthing of children. Because Artemis is related to the ideas of nature and nourishment, she is also thought to be fruitful.

When was the Second Temple of Artemis Orthia built?

A second temple was built around 570 BCE, perhaps during the joint reign of Leon of Sparta and Agasicles, when military successes provided funds, however, it was moved towards the north, built atop portions of the old temple and is now facing S/E. The terrain was raised and consolidated, undoubtedly following erosion caused by the Eurotas.

What was the prize of the Orthia cult?

For the young men, the prize is a sickle, which implies an agricultural ritual. The presence of ex-votos (votive offerings) attests to the popularity of the cult: clay masks representing old women or hoplites as well as lead and terracotta figures showing men and women playing the flute, lyre, or cymbals, or mounting a horse.