Carnea

Karneia (Greek Καρνεῖα ) was the feast in honor of the god of fertility Karneios. Especially in the area around Sparta was celebrated and lasted 9 days. According to him also the month was named: " Karneios " ( August today ). The festival ended with a full moon.

As part of the celebration a music competition of Kitharoeden (player of the lyre ) was held since 676 BC, the winners were recorded. The first winner was " Terpander ".

For the Spartans, it was a very important festival. So it was not permitted to go to war during this time. This meant that the Spartans appeared at the famous battle of Marathon too late.

• Sparta
• Festivals and traditions ( ancient Greece)
• Cult of Apollo