What Were Hospitals Called in Ancient Greece?

In Ancient Greece, hospitals were not called hospitals as we know them today. Instead, they were referred to as Asclepieion or Asclepeion. These were places where people went to seek healing and treatment for their illnesses and diseases.

The Asclepieion was named after the Greek god of healing, Asclepius. The Greeks believed that Asclepius had the power to cure any ailment and so they built these sanctuaries in his honor. The first known Asclepieion was built in Epidaurus in the 6th century BC.

These sanctuaries were not just places of healing, but also centers of learning where aspiring physicians could train and learn from experienced healers. Patients who visited the Asclepieion were treated with a combination of physical therapy, diet, and medication.

The Design of the Asclepieion

The design of the Asclepieion was based on certain principles that were thought to promote healing. The sanctuaries were usually located near natural springs or bodies of water because it was believed that water had healing properties.

The architecture of the Asclepieion was also designed to promote healing. Patients would sleep in dormitories called abaton where they could rest and receive treatment in a quiet environment away from distractions.

The Role of Priests

Priests played an important role in the functioning of the Asclepieion. They would interpret dreams that patients had while they slept in the abaton, as it was believed that dreams held significant meaning and could provide insight into a patient’s illness.

Priests would also administer treatments such as massages, baths, and herbal remedies. They would work closely with physician trainees to ensure that patients received the best possible care.

  • Conclusion

In conclusion, hospitals in Ancient Greece were not called hospitals but instead were known as Asclepieion. These sanctuaries were places of healing and learning where patients could receive treatment for their illnesses and aspiring physicians could train and learn from experienced healers. The design of the Asclepieion was based on principles that were thought to promote healing, and priests played an important role in the functioning of these sanctuaries.