MOUNT LYKAION Sanctuary of Zeus - 2008

Mt. Lykaion, Sanctuary of Zeus. M. Petropoulos (ΛΘ' ΕΠΚΑ), M.E. Voyatzis (ASCSA/Arizona) and D.G. Romano (ASCSA/Pennsylvania) report on the 2008 season of excavation and survey (Figs. 1, 2).
Excavation revealed stratigraphic sequences which probably indicate a first use of the altar in the Myc period, characterized by dozens of Myc kylikes and other small finds. Above this lowest level, the stratigraphy includes EIA material, as well as Geo, Ar, Cl and Hel pottery and other objects apparently in a continuous sequence. Many miniature bronze tripods were recovered, as well as silver coins, metal objects and miniature dedications of various kinds. Numerous EH and MH sherds, as well as large amounts of FNeo, were uncovered again this year in nearly all layers of the altar. Masses of animal bones continue to be unearthed, but no human bones have yet been found. Part of what may be the anc. temenos wall was cleared S of the altar. In the lower sanctuary, excavation continued immediately N and S of the seats or steps and outside the NE corner of the xenon, where considerable amounts of Hel pottery were found. More of the 67m l. stoa building was cleared: a trench was opened to the N of the stoa to recover information from a stele that had been illicitly uncovered.
Work continued to document the location of all extant stone blocks. Architectural study focused on completion of the documentation of the steps or seats to the N of the stoa, the E wall of the xenon and the fountain house to the S and W of the xenon.
G. Davis’ team continued the geological survey of the area immediately surrounding the southern peak of Mt Lykaion, defining the structural geology of the region. Y. Pikoulas continued the historical study of the Mt Lykaion area, identifying anc. roads and towns (see also the 2008 report on Theisoa).