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Other games:
Pythia
| Isthmia
| Nemea
| Panathenaea
| Heraea
| Asclepiea
Asclepiea
The Asclepiean games were conducted in Epidaurus in honor of the hero-doctor Asclepius, the son of Apollo, in the sanctuary dedicated to both father and son. The Asclepiea, already active since the beginning of the 5th century BC, took place every four years, nine days after the Isthmia and lasted from June to July. During the Roman years, the games were called Great Asclepiea in order to be distinguished from the Apolloneia, an annual celebration that took place during the same time. Naked races were performed during the games (stade, diaulos, hippios or four-stade race, hoplite race), jumping, discus-throwing, javelin, boxing, pankration and the equestrian contests, chariot races and finally music, singing and drama competitions. The first day began with a sacrifice to Asclepius and Apollo, which was followed by a banquet with the participation of the believers. The contests began the following day.
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