depis

Depis refers to a group of ancient Greek funerary monuments. These monuments served as elaborate tombs and memorials for individuals and families, often displaying significant wealth and status. They were particularly prevalent during the Archaic and Classical periods of Greek history, with notable examples found in Attica and other regions of Greece.

The design and construction of depis varied greatly, reflecting the artistic and architectural styles of their time. Some were simple stone sarcophagi, while others were complex structures with sculpted reliefs, inscriptions, and even small chapels. The imagery often depicted scenes from the deceased's life, mythological narratives, or symbolic representations of the afterlife, offering insights into ancient Greek beliefs and social customs.

The inscriptions on depis were also crucial, often including the name of the deceased, their lineage, and sometimes a brief epitaph. These inscriptions provide invaluable historical data for understanding family structures, social hierarchies, and the commemoration practices of the ancient Greeks. The study of depis contributes significantly to our understanding of Greek art, archaeology, and social history.