Heraia facts for kids
The Heraia were special running races held in ancient Olympia, Greece. These races honored the powerful goddess Hera. People believed that Hippodameia started these games. She did it to show thanks after she married Pelops.
The Ancient Heraia Games
The Heraia games were unique because only young women from a place called Elis, Greece could compete. They wore a short dress called a tunic. This tunic reached just above their knees. One shoulder was bare. The runners raced about 160 meters inside the stadium at Olympia. This was a bit shorter than the full length of the stadium.
Judges and Traditions
The judges for the Heraia were 16 women from Elis. Every four years, these women had an important job. They wove a special, sacred dress for Hera. This dress was called a peplos. They would then take it to Hera's Temple. The judges also performed two special dances. These dances were part of their ancient traditions.
Prizes and Timing
Winners of the Heraia race received a special prize. They got a wreath made from an olive branch. They also received a share of the meat from a cow that was sacrificed to Hera. Winners had the right to put their own statues near the Temple of Hera. This was a great honor. The Heraia games were not held at the same time as the men's Olympic Games. They usually took place about two years apart.
