Symbol of civic pride, power, strength.
In Athens, the Panathenaea Festival was held in honor of Athena, the city’s protective goddess. The celebration took place in mid-August, around Athena’s birthday. Every year, a lesser Panathenaea was held, and every four years, a great Panathenaea was held. Except for slaves, everyone was welcome to attend the event. The larger Panathenaea was a huge event, with visitors coming from all over the world. During the Panathenaea, chariot races were held. During the Panathenaea, equestrians and gymnasts competed, and musicians sang songs and sections of epic poems were recited. There was a fantastic parade following the competitions. Each celebration included the weaving of a new robe and its presentation to the goddess Athena. The robe was then draped on the mast of a full-sized ship and hauled around town. A spectacular procession of athletes who had won tournaments and people carrying gifts for the goddess took place. The enormous procession came to a halt at the Athena temple, when priestesses would drape the robe over Athena’s statue. The celebration lasted five to seven days in total. Competitions held at the festival were a tribute to Athena, the goddess of war. Only the top warriors and winners would be allowed to march in the procession. The event highlighted Athens’ greatness and demonstrated to all how powerful its citizens were.