Sacrificial altar at temple of Zeus - Agrigento

A sacrificial altar could be found on the square in front of the Temple of Zeus. Its size was directly proportional to the grandeur of the temple. Up to a hundred cattle could be sacrificed at a time.

The main purpose of the sacrifices was to gain the favor of the gods , to atone for sins, or to show gratitude for favors received. The sacrificial animals were often slaughtered, and some of the meat was burned as a sacrifice , while the other part was used for meals or distributed among those present as a communal ritual.

The sacrificial altar was prepared with fire or a sacred fire. The altar was usually located in front of the temple or shrine. A suitable animal was selected for the sacrifice. The animal had to be free from physical defects or disease, as it was to be considered a symbolically pure and perfect sacrifice. Before the sacrifice , the animal was cleansed by sprinkling with holy water. This was done to ensure purity and to cleanse the animal of any impurities.

The number of animals sacrificed simultaneously in ancient Greek rituals varied depending on several factors, including the specific ritual, the god or goddess to whom the sacrifice was made, and the nature of the request or celebration. In some cases only one or a few animals were sacrificed, while on large-scale festivals or important occasions hundreds of animals were sacrificed. For example, dozens of cattle were sacrificed for the Olympic Games in Olympia.

The Temple of Zeus was built in gratitude to the god Zeus for the victory of Akragas over the Carthaginians in Himera. Measuring 113 meters long and 56 meters wide, it was the largest Doric temple ever built, although it was never completed and now lies in ruins.

Willem Vandenameele