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![This Panathenaic amphora, dating to around 525–500 BC, was awarded as a prize to the victor in the four-horse chariot race at the Panathenaic festival in Athens. The black-figure decoration shows Athena Promachos on one side and the racing chariots on the other. The inscription reads ΑΘΕΝΕΘΕΝ ΑΘΛΟΝ ΑΘΑΝΑΙΑ — “one of the prizes from Athens, [of] Athena” — the standard formula identifying these official prize vessels, which were filled with olive oil from the goddess’s sacred groves.
This amphora was found far from Athens, in the Sanctuary of Athena Chalkioikos on the Spartan Acropolis. Its presence there hints at the wide circulation and prestige of the Panathenaic prizes. It may have been dedicated by a Spartan victor, offered as a diplomatic gift, or even taken as spoils of war??
#panathenaicamphora #athens #sparta #athena #ancientgreece #greekpottery #blackfigure #greekart #archaeology #ancienthistory #hellenistichistory!#ancientsocieties #archaeology #ancient](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.hellenistichistory.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png?media=1758472752)
About me
Hi, I’m Elke — a Classicist, teacher, and the voice behind Hellenistic History. I’ve always been drawn to the everyday lives, big ideas, and small details that shaped the ancient world.
What began as an academic path soon turned into something more: a way to connect people to the past in a way that’s engaging, approachable, and sometimes just plain fun.
I created Hellenistic History as a space to share that passion. Here you’ll find essays, teaching tools, and deep dives into the cultures, myths, and people of the ancient Mediterranean. Whether I’m writing a Substack post, crafting a classroom resource, or nerding out over obscure inscriptions, I want to help others see the ancient world not as something distant, but as something vivid and alive.
If you’re curious about the Hellenistic period, looking for inspiration for your own teaching, or just love ancient history as much as I do — welcome. You’re in the right place.
Explore Our Blog
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Have a question, collaboration idea, or just want to nerd out about inscriptions? I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me via the following options: