Eleusinian Mysteries facts for kids
The Eleusinian Mysteries (Greek: Ἐλευσίνια Μυστήρια) were special yearly events in Ancient Greece. They honored the Greek goddesses Demeter and Persephone. These events took place near the city of Eleusis. They were known as the most famous secret religious ceremonies of their time.
The mysteries told the story of Persephone. She was taken to the underworld by Hades, the god of the underworld. Her mother, Demeter, searched for her. This myth had three parts: Persephone's descent (when she was lost), the search for her, and her ascent (when she returned). The most important part was Persephone's return to the world of the living and her happy reunion with her mother.
People who joined these mysteries promised to keep them a secret. Those who took part believed they would receive a special reward in the afterlife. The Eleusinian Mysteries were a very important festival during the Hellenic era. They later became popular in Ancient Rome. Other similar religious ceremonies were also found in farming communities in the Near East and on the island of Crete.
Images for kids
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A votive plaque known as the Ninnion Tablet depicting elements of the Eleusinian Mysteries, discovered in the sanctuary at Eleusis (mid-4th century BC)
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Triptolemus receiving wheat sheaves from Demeter and blessings from Persephone, 5th-century BC relief, National Archaeological Museum of Athens
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The Eleusinian Mysteries Hydria, showing the reunion of Demeter and Persephone at the start of each spring
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See also
In Spanish: Misterios eleusinos para niños
