The American School of Classical Studies at Athens has been conducting original excavations since 1886. The results of these efforts can still be seen today in the National Museum of Athens, at the Argive Heraeum, and in a detailed volume published by Professor Charles Waldstein. Professor Waldstein, who later became a lecturer at King’s College, Cambridge, served as director of the American School for several years. His leadership brought great progress to the study of ancient Greek history and culture.
Discoveries at Icaria and the Legacy of Thespis
One of the most fascinating sites explored by the American School was Icaria, the first center of the worship of Bacchus (Dionysus), the god of wine and drama. Icaria was also the home of Thespis, often called the inventor of the theater. Before Thespis, public performances consisted only of recitations or declamations. Thespis revolutionized this by introducing dialogue, dramatic plots, and the use of masks. Masks allowed a single actor to take on multiple roles, and since women were not permitted to act on stage at the time, male actors also played female parts The Origin of the Name Mars Hill.
The director of the American School identified and excavated the original home of Thespis. However, under Greek law, foreign archaeologists could not remove any artifacts from the country. The discoverer is permitted to publish reports and gain honor for the find, but the objects themselves remain the property of the Greek government or of the landowner. If a private landowner wishes to keep the discoveries, they must build a museum on their property so that the artifacts can be displayed to the public.
Excavations at Plataea and Eretria
The American School also carried out excavations at Plataea, the site of the famous battle in 479 B.C. where the Greeks defeated the Persians. Unfortunately, the digs here produced little of great value. More success was achieved at Eretria, once a powerful city that was destroyed by the Persians before the battle of Marathon.
At Eretria, archaeologists uncovered remarkable remains, including a theater, a temple dedicated to Bacchus, an elaborate set of public baths, and the most complete gymnasium ever discovered from the ancient Greek world. These finds gave historians new insights into the daily life and culture of the city’s inhabitants.
The Great Discovery at Argos
Perhaps the most celebrated success of the American School was near Argos, where Dr. Waldstein led the excavation of the Argive Heraeum. This magnificent temple of Hera, the queen of the gods, was destroyed in 423 B.C. when a priestess accidentally caused a fire by falling asleep before extinguishing her candle. The blaze spread to the decorations and consumed the temple Personal Tours Bulgaria.
The excavation revealed not only the temple itself but also several surrounding structures. Among the discoveries were statues of great artistic value, bronze artifacts, and beautifully crafted pieces of terra-cotta. These treasures were carefully transferred to the National Museum in Athens, where they remain on display for the world to see.
Importance of the American School’s Work
The excavations carried out by the American School of Classical Studies highlight the institution’s important role in uncovering the material heritage of ancient Greece. From theaters and temples to statues and household artifacts, these discoveries help bring history to life. Although the objects remain in Greece, the scholars gain recognition through their research and publications.
Through their careful and respectful work, the American archaeologists contributed not only to American scholarship but also to the preservation of Greek cultural history. Their efforts continue to inspire students and researchers from around the world.
