Samothrace Temple Complex

The Samothrace Temple Complex, known as the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, is one of the principal Pan-Hellenic religious sanctuaries, located on the island of Samothrace within the larger Thrace [1]. Built immediately to the west of the ramparts of the city of Samothrace, it was nonetheless independent, as attested to by the dispatch of city ambassadors during festivals [1]. It was celebrated throughout Ancient Greece for its Mystery religion [1]. The temple complex is mentioned by Plato and Aristophanes [1]. During the Hellenistic period, after the investiture of Phillip II, it formed a Macedonian national sanctuary where the successors to Alexander the Great vied to outdo each other's munificence [1]. It remained an important religious site throughout the Roman period [1]. The cult fades from history towards the end of Late Antiquity [1]. The sanctuary occupies three narrow terraces on the west slopes of mount Hagios Georgios, separated by two steep-banked torrents [1].