The Olympic Games of Ancient Macedonia: New Approaches.

The aim of this study was to gather and analyze data concerning the Olympia games held in ancient Macedonia. Our sources include texts, as well as epigraphic and numismatic materials. Through our analysis, we discovered that two Olympia games were held in Macedonia: one in Dion (rather than in Aigai), and the other in Beroea. King Archelaus established the Olympia at Dion to honor Olympian Zeus and the Muses, not as “anti-Olympic games” (in reference to the games held at Elis), but rather to promote physical exercise in his country. The organization of the Dion Olympics further underscores Archelaus’ philhellenic policy and his efforts to promote southern Greek customs within his kingdom, thus integrating Macedonia into the broader Greek world. The Macedonian kings, such as Philip II and Alexander the Great, held the Olympia with grandeur, and in addition to athletic competitions, their programs also featured artistic events. During the imperial era, the Olympia were relocated to Beroea, which became the new religious center of Macedonia. The organization of these Olympia was attributed to the Macedonian koenon during the reigns of Gordianus III and Philip the Arab. The Beroea Olympics were also held in conjunction with the Alexandria games. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]