Communities and sanctuaries

Archaeological evidence from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia suggests that during the sub-Mycenaean and Protogeometric periods, a small community, possibly consisting of just three or four families, inhabited the area. This finding challenges the notion that Olympia was merely a sanctuary, highlighting its role as a lived-in settlement alongside its religious significance. The study integrates archaeological discoveries with ancient literary sources to explore the extent of settlements in greater Eleia before the synoikism (unification) of 471 BC, revealing the presence of political entities like the unlocated Khaladrians. Additionally, it raises questions about the communication networks between Dodona and African sanctuaries, pointing to gaps in our understanding of interregional connectivity during this period.

Bourke, G. (2017). Communities and sanctuaries. Elis, 28–52. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315225630-3