Religion and State in Ancient Times

In the beginning of written history, polytheistic (belief in many gods) religions were closely linked with the relationship between the state and the public. Later, during the late ancient period and the Middle Ages, monotheistic (belief in one god) religions replaced the old practices, showing that religion was deeply tied to the traditions of the state.

The Role of Prytaneion in Ancient Greece

In ancient Greek city-states, the role of religious and public duties was carried out by an office known as Prytaneion. This office continued until the late Roman period. The people who held this office, known as prytanists (also called curatores in Latin), were both priests and state officers. These prytanists were typically wealthy and noble men over the age of forty who served in the boule (city council) Customized Tour Bulgaria.

During their service, prytanists had several important duties. They had to protect the sacred fire (known as hestia), organize festivals and games, serve both the state and the domestic gods, and carry out ceremonies for them. They also had to take on the financial responsibilities of the city.

Women in the Prytaneion

Women could also serve in the Prytaneion, as shown in the epigraphs (inscriptions). These women were usually the wives or daughters of high-ranking state officers. By the 1st century AD, Greek cities and emperors were honored with the title of prytaneist.

The Prytaneion Complex in Ephesus

The Prytaneion in Ephesus was an important building, covering an area of about 1000 square meters. It was divided into rooms of different sizes. The central area, known as the Hestia (the fire section), was the heart of the building and measured 15×14 meters. The building was ordered to be constructed by Roman Emperor Augustus in the 1st century BC, and it was completed by the middle of the 3rd century AD.

Discovery and Protection of the Prytaneion

The exact location of the original Prytaneion is unknown, but its importance as a pioneering structure is clear. Part of the epigraph (inscription) was found in the Prytaneion and the city walls of Ayasuluk. Today, most of the inscriptions are protected in a gallery beneath the Domitian Temple and are displayed in the Selçuk Archaeological Museum.