What Games Did Ancient Greece Play?

Ancient Greece is known for its rich culture and fascinating history, but what many people don’t know is that the Greeks also loved to play games. From board games to athletic contests, the ancient Greeks had a variety of games to keep them entertained. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular games played in ancient Greece.

Board Games

One of the most popular types of games played in ancient Greece was board games. These were often played during social gatherings and were a great way for people to pass the time.

One of the most well-known board games was called “Petteia,” which was similar to modern-day chess. Players would move their pieces around a board with the goal of capturing their opponent’s pieces.

Dice Games

Dice games were also popular in ancient Greece and were often played in taverns or at home. One popular game was called “Tali,” which involved throwing four dice and trying to achieve certain combinations. Another popular game was “Kubeia,” which involved throwing three dice and trying to guess the outcome before they landed.

Athletic Contests

The ancient Greeks were known for their love of athletics, and many different contests were held throughout the year. The most famous of these contests was the Olympic Games, which were held every four years in Olympia. Athletes from all over Greece would compete against each other in events such as running, wrestling, and discus throwing.

Children’s Games

Children in ancient Greece also had their own set of games that they enjoyed playing. One popular game was called “Kottabos,” which involved trying to flick wine from a drinking cup onto a Target without spilling it. Another game was called “Harpaston,” which was similar to modern-day dodgeball.

Conclusion

As you can see, the ancient Greeks had a variety of games to keep them entertained. From board games to athletic contests, there was something for everyone.

While many of these games may seem outdated by today’s standards, they are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the ancient Greeks. So the next time you’re looking for a new game to play, why not try your hand at one of these ancient classics?