Asclepius was the ancient Greek god of medicine, and he was also credited with powers of prophecy. The god had several sanctuaries across Greece; the most famous was at Epidaurus which became an important centre of healing in both ancient Greek and Roman times and was the site of athletic, dramatic, and musical games held in Asclepius' honour every four years.
More about: AsclepiusDefinition
Timeline
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c. 700 BCEGreek poet Hesiod writes his Theogony and Works and Days.
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c. 500 BCEAsclepius becomes principal god of worship at Epidaurus.
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400 BCE - 390 BCEA sanctuary to Asclepius is built at Agrigento.
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c. 380 BCE - c. 375 BCETemple to Asclepius constructed at Epidaurus.
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c. 350 BCEThe Ascelpeion is built on Kos.
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c. 340 BCE - c. 330 BCETheatre of Epidaurus first constructed.
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292 BCEThe Romans adopt the Greek god of medicine Asclepius by stealing his sacred snake from Epidaurus and setting up a temple on the Tiber Island.
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242 BCEThe games held in honour of Asclepius on Kos are given Panhellenic status.
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426 CERoman Emperor Theodosius II orders closure of Epidaurus sanctuary.
