The voice of Orpheus (Schol. Eur. Hec. 1267), or once more about the worn out thresholds of some subtumular constructions
The voice of Orpheus (Schol. Eur. Hec. 1267), or once more about the worn out thresholds of some subtumular constructions

Summary/Abstract: Over the last few decades, a differentiated approach was gradually imposed in terms of the interpretation the subtumular constructions, which for a long time had been classified as burial constructions. Some of them are already seen as temples dedicated to both the initiation rite and immortality rituals. A number of constructions are marked with characteristics revealing their long-time use: several stages of construction in previously raised embankment, worn steps and thresholds, movable stone doors, etc. Based on a comparative analysis of the ancient written sources and the results of the archaeological research of some subtumular constructions, the article proposes another hypothesis regarding their functions as a subtumular oracul (necromanteion, i.e., Oracle of the Dead).

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