koinoi

Koinoi refers to a category of ancient Greek inscriptions that record public decisions or decrees made by a city-state or a confederation of cities. These inscriptions were typically carved onto stone or bronze and displayed in public places, serving as official records and pronouncements. The term "koinoi" literally translates to "common" or "public," highlighting the communal nature of these decrees.

These inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the political, social, and economic life of ancient Greece. They document a wide range of matters, including laws, treaties, alliances, financial transactions, religious festivals, and dedications. The language and style of koinoi inscriptions often reflect the specific dialect and customs of the city or confederation that issued them.

Scholars study koinoi to understand the structure of ancient Greek governance, the evolution of legal systems, and the relationships between different city-states. They offer direct evidence of the decision-making processes and the values held by ancient Greek communities. The preservation of these inscriptions, often fragmented, allows historians to reconstruct historical events and social dynamics that might otherwise be lost to time. Their study forms a significant branch of epigraphy, the study of inscriptions.