Archaeologists discover strange 'hydromancy' temple in ancient Athens cemetery

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published 4 September 2015

When archaeologists overturned a marble stone at Kerameikos Cemetery in Athens, they discovered the first known place in the city where Apollo, the ancient Greek god of prophecy, was invoked to foretell the future. The Greek Culture Ministry announced Friday the discovery of an ancient well bearing inscriptions calling upon Apollo, leading archaeologists to surmise that Kerameikos seers used the site for "hydromancy rituals," in which Ancient Origins reports seers would consult "the waters to see if the god would deliver messages or visions in them." Archaeologists believe the well was in use in early Roman times.

Archaeology News Network notes that this finding is "exceptionally significant as it identifies the spot as the first and unique Apollo divination site in Athens, confirming the worship of the ancient god." The well's wall bears a phrase meaning 'Come to me Paean, and bring the truthful prophecy,' alongside 20 or so other similar inscriptions. Apollo was likely worshipped at the site along with his twin sister Artemis, goddess of the wilds, chastity, and girls.