Samothrace

place

Σαμοθρᾴκη

Island of the Kabeiroi Mysteries

Samothrace was a mountainous island in the northern Aegean, home to a mystery cult second only to Eleusis.

The Myth

The Kabeiroi, or Great Gods of Samothrace, were ancient deities whose exact nature remained secret. Their mysteries offered protection at sea and initiation was open to all — free, enslaved, Greek, and barbarian — unusual for the ancient world. Philip II and Olympias reportedly met during initiation there. The Argonauts stopped to be initiated before their voyage. The Winged Victory of Samothrace was found on the island in 1863.

Parents

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Children

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Symbols

Kabeiroisea protectionmountainWinged Victory

Fun Fact

The Winged Victory of Samothrace, discovered on this island, is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Hellenistic sculpture.