Definition

1. Noun:
   • A specific ancient gateway: The Dipylon Gate was the main double gate in the city wall of Classical Athens, located in the Kerameikos area. It was the largest gate of the city and served as the starting point for the Sacred Way to Eleusis and the Panathenaic Way to the Acropolis.
   • An archaeological site and term: The name is used by archaeologists and historians to refer to this significant structure and the area around it, which was also a major cemetery. A distinctive style of pottery, known as Dipylon vases, was found in graves near this gate.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The procession for the Panathenaic Festival would assemble at the Dipylon Gate before proceeding through the city.
  • Excavations near the Dipylon Gate have revealed many important geometric-period artifacts.

Advanced Usage

• "Dipylon" as an adjective: The term "Dipylon" is often used attributively to describe objects or styles associated with the gate area.
  • The museum's collection includes several fine examples of Dipylon pottery.
  • The Dipylon cemetery provides crucial insights into ancient Athenian burial customs.

Variants and Related Words

• Dipylon (adj): Pertaining to the Dipylon Gate or the pottery found near it.
  • The Dipylon style is characterized by its geometric patterns and funerary scenes.
• Kerameikos (n): The ancient district of Athens where the Dipylon Gate was located, known for its potters' workshops and cemeteries.

Synonyms

• Double Gate: A descriptive term referencing the gate's physical structure of two passageways.
• Thriasian Gate: An alternative ancient name sometimes associated with this entrance.

Related Terms (Archaeology/History)

• Sacred Way: The road to Eleusis beginning at the Dipylon Gate.
• Panathenaic Way: The processional road from the Dipylon Gate to the Acropolis.
• Geometric Period: The historical era (c. 900-700 BC) to which the distinctive Dipylon pottery belongs.

Noun

1. a gateway to the west of ancient Athens near which a distinctive style of pottery has been found