The ancient kingdom of Epirus stands as one of the most compelling testimonies to the Greek character of this northwestern region. From the earliest historical records, Epirus was recognized as an integral part of the Hellenic world, with its ruling Molossian dynasty claiming direct descent from Achilles through his son Neoptolemus.
The sanctuary of Dodona provides the most compelling archaeological evidence for ancient Epirote Greek identity. Over 4,216 preserved inscriptions on lead tablets have been discovered at the site, providing direct evidence of ancient Greek language evolution and religious practices. Many dedicatory inscriptions recovered from the site mention both "Dione" and "Zeus Naios", demonstrating continuous Greek religious worship from the 6th century BCE onwards.
A bronze fragment of a Macedonian shield with the inscription "ΒΑ(ΣΙ)ΛΕΥΣ" (basileus = king) was discovered, probably a votive offering of Pyrrhus after his victory against the Macedonian King Antigonus II Gonatas at Aous in 274 BCE, now housed in the National Archaeological Museum, Athens.
Perhaps the most decisive proof of Epirote Greek identity lies in their participation in the Olympic Games, restricted exclusively to Greeks. King Alexander I of Epirus competed in the Olympic Games of 352 BCE, while later rulers regularly sent delegations. This participation required proof of Hellenic descent, rigorously verified by Olympic judges.
The coinage of Epirus demonstrates Greek identity through Greek inscriptions and mythological imagery connected to broader Greek traditions, including references to Zeus Dodonaios and Dione. The artistic style follows classical Greek numismatic conventions, distinguishing them clearly from barbarian coinages.
Primary Sources:
- Thucydides, History 2.68: Explicitly identifies the Epirotes as Greeks, stating that "the Molossians and other Epirote tribes were of Greek stock"
- Strabo, Geography 7.7.1: Describes Epirus as inhabited by fourteen Greek tribes
- Plutarch, Life of Pyrrhus: Traces the Molossian royal lineage to Achilles, emphasizing their Hellenic pedigree
- Homer, Iliad 16.233: The earliest literary mention of Dodona, with Achilles praying to "High Zeus, Lord of Dodona"
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