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Medical Performance in the Asklepieion of Epidaurus
Published:
Oct 4, 2025
Versions:
2025-10-04 (1)
Abstract
During ancient times, when there was nothing else available for a physician or a doctor in
order to heal the patient and when there was no hope left, the last available option was the
Asklepieion. The sanctuary dedicated to the god Asklepius was a place of healing where
patients could pray, offer sacrifices to the gods and perform the healing ritual 'enkoimesis',
through which the god healed the sick. In addition to ritual and religious practices, evidence
such as surgical instruments have been found at Asklepieion, proving that medical and
surgical practices also took place there. This article examines ritual and medical practices
and the places where they may have taken place within the Asklepieion.
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References
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