OVERVIEW
Beyond the Altars of Athreos, up the marble steps to the right opens the Immolation Altar
of Mogis, a platform on which to offer sacrifices to
the god, whose image observes from the center of a colonnaded
temple behind the altar. During the Megasphagion the
sacrifice of oxen is celebrated to appease the wrath of the god.
Thus begins the festival in the city. The blood of the animals
waters the altar and is collected to cover the statue of Mogis.
The citizens stain the palms of their hands in the blood and
do not wash them until after the festival. Much of the meat is
distributed throughout the city and carried to the Fountain of
the Banquet in procession.
Location Description
Outside
Venturing beyond the Altars of Athreos and ascending the marble steps to the right, you approach the imposing Immolation Altar of Mogis. This altar, set on a raised platform, is a powerful and solemn testament to the god Mogis, known for his demanding and fierce nature.
As you near the altar, the towering image of Mogis, observed from a colonnaded temple behind the altar, dominates your view. The temple's architecture, with its sturdy columns and stern design, reflects the formidable character of the god it honors. The air around the altar is heavy with a sense of anticipation, especially palpable as the Megasphagion festival approaches.
The sound of distant chants and preparations for the oxen sacrifice can be heard, creating an atmosphere of solemn reverence mixed with a subtle undercurrent of unease. The scent of incense mingles with the more earthy aromas of the temple surroundings, preparing the senses for the ritual to come.
Inside
Upon entering the area of the Immolation Altar, the intensity of the ritualistic atmosphere becomes overwhelming. The altar itself, where the oxen sacrifice is performed, is stained with the history of countless ceremonies aimed at appeasing Mogis's wrath.
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