The Elaphebolia ( /ˌɛləfɪˈboʊli.ə/; [1] Έλαφηβόλια Elaphēbolia) was an ancient Greek festival held at Athens and Phocis during the month of Elaphebolion (March/April dedicated to Artemis Elaphebolos ( deer slayer). In the town of Hyampolis in Phocis, it would have been instituted by the inhabitants to commemorate a victory against the Thessalians.
Cakes made from flour, honey, and sesame and in the shape of stags were offered to the goddess during the festival. [2]
Modern followers of Hellenism (religion) observe Elaphebolia as a holiday. It falls on the 6th day of the month of Elaphebolion. In 2024 it will fall on March 17. [2]
See also
References
- ^ Webster's New Universal Unabridged Dictionary. New York: Barnes & Noble. 1994. p. 458. ISBN 1-56619-147-5.
- ^ a b "Elaphebolia". Hellenion. Archived from the original on 2019-09-29. Retrieved 2020-04-20.
Sources
- Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities edited by William Smith (1870) p.450 Archived 2007-08-08 at the Wayback Machine