ATTIC CALENDAR Meaning and
Definition
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The term "attic calendar" refers to an ancient calendar system used in Athens, Greece, during the Classical period. It was primarily employed for religious and administrative purposes and played a significant role in coordinating the various religious festivals, ceremonies, and civic events that took place throughout the year.
The attic calendar was a lunisolar calendar, meaning it was based on both lunar and solar cycles. The lunar months were adjusted to fit the solar year by periodically adding or intercalating an additional month. This ensured that important seasonal events, such as agricultural activities and religious festivals, always occurred during the appropriate time of year.
The attic calendar consisted of twelve months, with each month consisting of alternating "hollow" and "full" days. The hollow days were considered unlucky and were used for administrative purposes, while the full days were considered auspicious and were designated for religious ceremonies and social gatherings.
The months were named after various religious festivals or significant deities, such as Hekatombaion (named after the Hekatombaia festival), Boedromion (named after the Boedromia festival), and Thargelion (named after the Thargelia festival). The exact number of days in each month varied, as the intercalation of an extra month was irregularly performed.
Despite its contextual significance, the attic calendar gradually fell out of use, with the introduction of the Julian calendar by the Romans. However, its influence on the organization of festivals and religious events in ancient Athens remains notable, as it facilitated coordination and ensured the appropriate timing of important cultural and religious activities.
Etymology of ATTIC CALENDAR
The term "attic calendar" is derived from the ancient Greek word "attikós" (Ἀττικός), which means "Athens" or "related to Athens" and refers to the Attica region in Greece. The Attic calendar was the lunar-solar calendar used by the ancient Athenians in Athens and its surrounding territories. This calendar was important for the Athenians as it regulated their religious festivals and civic activities.
