Pithos

Pithos Louvre CA4523

Pithos (plural: pithoi) is a term used in Ancient Greece to describe a large storage container. These containers were typically made of ceramic and were used for storing a variety of goods, including grain, wine, and olive oil. Pithoi were an essential part of ancient Greek storage and trade practices.

History

Pithoi have been found in archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age, particularly in the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete. They were also prevalent in the Mycenaean civilization and continued to be used throughout the Classical and Hellenistic periods.

Design and Construction

Pithoi were usually made from clay and were often decorated with various patterns and motifs. The size of pithoi could vary significantly, with some being large enough to hold several hundred liters of liquid or dry goods. The construction of pithoi required significant skill, as they needed to be both durable and capable of being sealed to protect their contents.

Uses

Pithoi were primarily used for storage, but they also had other functions. In some cases, they were used as burial containers, particularly in the Minoan civilization. They were also used in ritual contexts and could be found in both domestic and public spaces.

Archaeological Significance

The discovery of pithoi in archaeological sites provides valuable insights into the storage and trade practices of ancient civilizations. The contents of pithoi, when preserved, can offer information about the diet, economy, and daily life of the people who used them.

Notable Examples

Some notable examples of pithoi have been found in the Palace of Knossos on Crete, where they were used to store surplus agricultural products. Other significant finds include pithoi from the Mycenae and Akrotiri sites.

See Also

• Amphora
• Ceramics of ancient Greece
• Minoan pottery
• Mycenaean pottery
• Storage jar