Introduction
The Panathenaia was the most important festival celebrated in ancient Athens. It was the state festival honoring the city's patron diety, Athena:
The Panathenaia, literally meaning "the Rites of all Athenians", was celebrated annually. Every four years, though, it was celebrated on a much greater scale. This was called the "Greater Panathenaia." It took place from the 23rd to the 30th of the Hekatombaion, the fiirst month of the Athenian calendar year, approximately our month of July. The main day of the festival was the 28th, for this was thought to be Athena's birthday.
The festival attracted people from far and wide. It provided them with occasions for honoring the Gods with sacrifices and gifts, as well as being a time of relaxation, feasting, games, and prizes.