The Cult of Aglauros (and Aphrodite) in Athens and in Salamis of Cyprus: Reflections on the Origin of the Genos of the Salaminioi

What is it about?

Some evidence supports the conclusion that the cult of Aglauros in Cypriot Salamis could date back to the Geometric or Archaic periods at least. The Athenian origins of this heroine lead us to investigate the possibility of some genealogical and social relationships in the framework of Archaic trade between Salaminian and Athenian families. These aristocratic links could involve some gene like the Philaids and Salaminians (in charge of this cult in Athens) which might confirm their probable association with the island of Salamis and Aegina, and subsequently some ‘parentage’ (through Aeacid genealogy) with the founders of Cypriot Salamis.

Featured Image