City and Fortress of Metropolis (Palaiomanina): A Cult of Zeus at a Gate

Original title: Stadt und Festung von Metropolis (Palaiomanina). Zeuskult an einer Pforte

Abstract Between 2006 and 2010, the University of Athens undertook a systematic excavation of Palaiomanina in collaboration with the 36th Ephorate for Antiquities. The fact that it was possible to identify the remains of an Archaic wall stretching around the area of modern Palaiomanina reinforced the view that this area corresponded to ancient Metropolis, with an Archaic fortifications system encircling the city, whereas the fortifications from the Classical Period on the steep slope of the Acheloos served to provide protection and refuge for the inhabitants of the settlement in case of emergency. At the most sensitive point in the fortifications, a small gate was built for access to the city. It was dedicated to Zeus as the protector of the city, as emerges from a surviving inscription, located on the cliff just to the right of the entrance.

Keywords Acropolis, gate, cult of Zeus, Oiniadai, Stratos