From Arcadia to Attica; the transition of the Pan cult during the fifth century BC

According to the myth Pan was a goat-footed god, born in Arcadia. The origin of his cult also lies in Arcadia, and was most likely established during the seventh century BC. Within Arcadian veneration he was deemed to have a pastoral nature, from which herding and hunting were the most important characteristics. An overarching aspect of fertility emphasized his importance for the reproduction of the flocks, the increase of wild game, and his part in initiation rites of the paides; the Arcadian young males. His cult sites regarded temples and sacred buildings, often in the surroundings of sanctuaries of other deities. The votives consisted mostly of terracotta and bronze figurines. During the early fifth century BC the cult of Pan was established in Attica, where his rural nature was diminished, as it was only still considered important at the country side. Simultaneously, his hunting aspect was converted into a military character. He joined the nymphs in cult, as they were worshiped...Show moreAccording to the myth Pan was a goat-footed god, born in Arcadia. The origin of his cult also lies in Arcadia, and was most likely established during the seventh century BC. Within Arcadian veneration he was deemed to have a pastoral nature, from which herding and hunting were the most important characteristics. An overarching aspect of fertility emphasized his importance for the reproduction of the flocks, the increase of wild game, and his part in initiation rites of the paides; the Arcadian young males. His cult sites regarded temples and sacred buildings, often in the surroundings of sanctuaries of other deities. The votives consisted mostly of terracotta and bronze figurines. During the early fifth century BC the cult of Pan was established in Attica, where his rural nature was diminished, as it was only still considered important at the country side. Simultaneously, his hunting aspect was converted into a military character. He joined the nymphs in cult, as they were worshiped together in caves, connected through their mythical love affairs, and shared role in the rites de passage of youths. His votives mainly consisted of terracotta and bronze figurines, wine drinking vessels, and marble reliefs. Thus, both cults differ largely from each other, as Pan’s Arcadian veneration was considered an indispensable aspect in everyday life, whereas in Attica his worship was deemed to be of minor importance.Show less

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From Arcadia to Attica; the transition of the Pan cult during the fifth century BC