Roman Delphi and its Pythian Games

The Pythian Games are not as well known as the Olympic Games but were nonetheless important over a period of more than a thousand years of Greek and Roman history (c.580 BC to AD 395). In this study Robert Weir examines the rise and significance of this festival of athletics, horsemanship, music and drama held at or near the Delphic temple every four years. The chapters assess the nature of the games and those taking part, its administration and financing, the experience of the visitor, and asks why individuals took part and why people chose to attend the games. Weir argues that, contrary to theories of decline, religious aspects of the games in particular ensured its continued relevance throughout the Roman period although some changes were necessary in line with the demands of the emperor and imperial ideology. The final chapters look at this imperial intervention and at festivals outside Delphi and the spread of its influence.