User:Nefasdicere/Lycosoura test
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Lycosura (Greek, Ancient: Λυκόσουρα, Modern: Palaeokastro or Siderokastro) was a city of Arcadia reputed to be the most ancient city in Greece and, indeed, the world. Its current significance is chiefly associated with the sanctuary of the goddess Despoina, which contained a colossal sculptural group perhaps made by Damophon of Messene; this group consists of acrolithic-technique statues of Despoina and Demeter seated on a throne, with statues of Artemis and the Titan Anytus standing on either side of them - all in Pentelic marble. The dates of both the temple and the sculptural group have occasioned some dispute. Remains of a stoa, altars and other structures have also been found. The Sanctuary of Despoina at Lycosoura is located 9 km WSW of Megalopolis, 6.9 km SSE of Mt. Lycaion, and 160 km SW of Athens. There is a small museum at the archaeological site housing small finds as well as fragments of the cult group, while the most important remains of the cult statues of Despoina and Demeter are displayed at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
Lycosura, Lykosoura, Lycosoura (Λυκόσουρα) | |
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Location | |
Coordinates | 37°23′23″N 22°1′51.67″E |
Country | Greece |
Region | Arkadia |
Elevation | 568 m |
Controlling City | Megalopolis |
Peak Period | Hellenistic to Roman |
Date | 2nd BCE to 2nd CE |