Sanctuary of Asklepios in Epidaurus Yields New Discoveries

The ongoing archaeological excavations at the site recently yielded an important discovery.

On the site where the most important building of the Sanctuary, the Tholos, would later stand during the 4th century BCE, archaeologists discovered evidence of a structure dating from the archaic period whose existence was unknown until recently. The location and design of the structure are expected to provide new research insights into the architecture of the time and into worship of Asclepius, god of medicine. The new discovery seems to indicate that this practice has earlier origins than previously thought.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) has provided support for the excavations, headed by Professor Vassilis Lambrinoudakis, since 2018. The project is implemented by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Argolida and the nonprofit organization Asclepiades.