Olympeia

## Overview The second festival in the month of Munichion (at least according to the Athenian calendar) this festival is dedicated to Olympian Zeus. According to Parke, it was believed to be held in the late 6th century when Peisistratus laid the foundation for the Olympieion temple near Ilissos river which was later finished several centuries later under the reign of Hadrian. This was a military oriented festival with the Athenian cavalry - formal processions with the cavalry, training exercises and competitions in the Hippodrome. The Anthippasia (the "Riding opposite") was a display where the tribal groups would flee from, pursue, and ride through each other's lines. The city council was said to be present during the festivities and a large scale sacrifice was conducted. Bulls were a typical offering for Zeus and it was hypothesized the feast that followed the festival would be beef.

Sources: Parke, H. W. Festivals of the Athenians. Thames and Hudson, 1977.