Artemis Kithone. An approach to her cult in antiquity

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide a general framework for Artemis Κιθώνη cult through the collection of Greek epigraphic and literary sources. This epiclesis, first attested in Miletus during the archaic period (VI BC), seems to refer to the offerings received by the goddess under this particular invocation. Indeed, clothing offerings are epigraphically recorded in Attica and in Ionia, where temple inventories describing accurately textiles as votive gifts for Artemis have been discovered. On the other hand, literary sources extend Artemis Κιθώνη prerogatives, linking her to music, dance and even to the mythical foundation of Miletus; they also expand the influence area of her cult into the Doric world through Syracuse.