Prytaneion

The Prytaneion was a public building in ancient Greece, particularly prominent in Athens. Its primary function was to serve as a residence and refuge for the Prytanis, who was the president of theboule, or council, that supervised the daily operations of the city state.

The particulars of the Prytaneion changed over time and varied from city to city; however, it generally included a series of connected rooms for receiving guests, conducting ceremonies, and offering hospitality. It was often lavishly decorated and possessed a sacred fire that burn uninterrupted as long as the city existed, according to historians. When a civic disturbance or war ended, the citizens would rally to see the sacred fire come from a temporary lamp to the larger, permanent one in the Prytaneion, signifying their true return to peace.

Maids, often slaves, were assigned to manage the household aspects, preparations, and the pursuit of ceremonial duties within the Prytaneion. The building held other responsibilities as well; for example, it operated as a public archive, recording important city documents, including evidence for voting records, receipts for public spending on behalf of the city, and so on. Visiting foreign dignitaries and ambassadors were also hosted by the Prytaneion.