The struggle between Argos and Sparta because the Thyreatis and the cult of Apollo Pythaeus

Abstract

This paper explores the political, military and, mainly, cultic meaning of the so-called “Battle of the Champions” which gave rise, immediately, to different traditions, deeply charged with ritual and legendary elements, both among Argives and Spartiates. We deal especially with the link between the Spartan victory in that battle and the Gymnopaidiai fests and the enigmatic Parparonia. Lastly, we stress the importance of the cult of Apollo Pythaeus, of Argive origins but also present in Sparta, which supported the hegemonic interests of both states, Argos and Lacedaemon, in the frontier territory of the Thyreatis.