Medical Performance in the Asklepieion of Epidaurus

Archaeological evidence reveals that the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus served as both a religious healing center and a site for advanced medical practices. The discovery of surgical instruments suggests that, alongside rituals like 'enkoimesis'—where patients sought divine healing from the god Asklepius—sophisticated medical procedures were also performed. This dual role challenges the traditional view of ancient healing practices, indicating a blend of ritualistic and empirical approaches to medicine in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bogri, D. (2025). Medical Performance in the Asklepieion of Epidaurus. Proceedings of the Performing Space 2023 Conference. https://doi.org/10.12681/ps2023.8362