Greek pyramids

Greek pyramids, also known as the Pyramids of Argolis, refers to several ancient structures located in the plains of Argolid, Greece. The best known of these is known as the Pyramid of Hellinikon (Greek: Πυραμίδα του Ελληνικού). During the time of the geographer Pausanias it was considered to be a tomb. Twentieth century researchers have suggested other possible uses.

The surrounding country of Apobathmi was termed Pyramia (Πυράμια), from the monuments in the form of pyramids found there.

Background

In addition to at least two pyramids which no longer exist, there are two surviving pyramid-like structures, the Pyramid of Hellinikon and another at Lygourio, a village near the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.

At the southeastern edge of the plain of Argos, near the springs of river Erasinos (spring of Kefalari) and on the main arterial road which during antiquity led from Argos to Tegea and the rest of Arcadia and Kynouria, there is a small structure extant known as the Pyramid of Hellenikon.

Although these structures are of great interest, written references are rather scarce and they are not mentioned in ancient sources. Pausanias (2nd century AD) mentions two buildings resembling pyramids, one, 19 kilometres (12 mi) southwest of the still standing structure at Hellinikon, a common tomb for soldiers who died in a legendary struggle for the throne of Argos, and another which he was told was the tomb of Argives killed in a battle around 669/8 BC. Neither of these still survives.

On the way from Argos to Epidauria there is on the right a building made very like a pyramid, and on it in relief are wrought shields of the Argive shape.