Epigraphische Forschungen zur Geschichte Lykiens XIV: Zeus in Limyra

Abstract

The main cult of Limyra was that of Zeus (Olympios). While it can be traced across many centuries, it is impossible to sketch a coherent history. The material published and discussed here can only reveal certain aspects. This applies both to the Hellenistic neokorate, mentioned in a badly damaged inscription along with many details about sanctuary procedures, and to the agonistic festival celebrated by the city in the god’s honour, which is documented from Commodus to Valerian by six very similar victory monuments. In both cases little can be gleaned in terms of historical interpretation. Appendices present four votive altars dedicated to an enigmatic ‹Lycian god›, perhaps close to Zeus, and his ‹children›, a house altar for the cult of Augustus and a column of honour for Commodus that was designed as a milestone.