File:Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus - Stadium - 52042248528.jpg

English: The stadium at Epidaurus was constructed in a natural depression formed by an ancient stream-bed. The area was already in use in the early fifth century for panhellenic athletic competitions known as gymnikoi agones. Athletes competed in the nude in honour of the healing and restorative powers of Epidaurian Asclepius. Pindar records the pancratium (contest of strength) and boxing among the athletic competitions held during the games. Spectators stood on the natural slope to watch the races and competitions. Rough stepped seating was created using fieldstone and clay. In the 4th century, the area was formalised with limestone seating added to the slopes on the eastern end, as well as a portion of the northern and southern sides. The sporting field covered an area of 180 x 22 metres with 6 racing tracks.

Around its perimeter, a limestone drain supplied water for spectators and competitors, and acted as a drainage channel. Stone starting and finishing lines were added, as well as distance markers along the length of the track. The starting line was on the eastern end of the track. It consisted of a grooved stone channel and a series of wooden starting posts. In the mid 4th century, Ionic half-columns replaced the wooden starting posts, and a starting mechanism known as a hysplex was installed. This consisted of a series of gates connected to the starting posts and held upright by a connected string. An official released the strings to allow the gates to fall at the same time. An inscription records that the contractor who installed the starting gates was fined 500 drachma by the chief judges of the games. In the 3rd century BC, the stepped seating on the northern side was modified with the creation of a vaulted corridor to connect the stadium with the gymnasium and palaestra. Athletes and games officials used this corridor to enter the stadium, while spectators approached the stands from above. The Stadium is well preserved, and visitors can freely explore the sports ground and racing track. The race track, starting line, starting posts, and drain channel with settling basins are all preserved in-situ. The majority of the stone seating remains (seats were never constructed along the westerly end of the stadium). The vaulted corridor can also be seen, although access inside is not permitted during restoration work.

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