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greggd12

Active member
Tavli is an amazing game with a super rich history. The game that we now know as tavli, or backgammon, likely originated about 5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia. Later, the Pharaohs of Egypt were known to have enjoyed a similar game. A board used for playing a game very similar to modern backgammon – called Senet – was discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamen, as well as at archaeological sites throughout Egypt. And now it's played in Greece and all over the world :)
 
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I love playing tavli!! It's a game so good that it only makes sense to have survived ancient times
 
The game looks fun. I don't know how to play though. Here's some information about it:

 

Crash Course to Learning Greek Philosophy?

I’ve recently become really interested in Greek philosophy, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by where to start. There are so many philosophers, schools of thought, and ancient texts that I’m not sure how to structure my learning.

I’d love to get a crash course-style approach—something that gives me a solid foundation before diving deeper. Should I start with Plato and Aristotle, or go even earlier with the Pre-Socratics? Are there any beginner-friendly books, online courses, or videos that give a clear overview of key ideas?

Also, how much of the original texts should I read, or are there good modern summaries that explain them in a more accessible way?

If anyone has a structured learning path or recommendations for someone just starting out, I’d really appreciate it! Looking forward to your insights.

Olympic Games in Greece History and Historical Sites?

I’m planning a trip to Greece and want to explore the country’s rich Olympic history and important historical sites. Before I go, I’d love to learn more about how the ancient Olympic Games shaped Greek culture and which locations are a must-visit.

Of course, Olympia is on my list, but I’m curious—are there other sites tied to the Games or ancient athletics that I should check out? Also, what’s the best way to experience Olympia? Any tips for visiting the ruins and the museum?

Beyond the Olympics, I’d love recommendations on other key historical sites that provide insight into Greece’s past. Athens and Delphi are on my list—anything else that’s a must-see for history lovers?

If you’ve been, I’d love to hear about your experiences and any books or resources you recommend before my trip!

Battle of Marathon - It's Marathon Season!

With all the excitement around marathon season, I’ve been thinking about the original marathon — the legendary run from the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE. I know the basics: a messenger ran from the battlefield to Athens to announce victory over the Persians… but how accurate is that story, really?

I’d love to learn more about the actual Battle of Marathon. Why was it such a big deal in Greek history? How did the Greeks manage to defeat the much larger Persian army? And how did it end up inspiring the modern marathon race?

If anyone here is into ancient history (or just loves epic military strategies), I’d really appreciate any insights or reading suggestions.

Was the Oracle of Delphi Real?

I’ve recently been reading about the Oracle of Delphi and how it played such a significant role in ancient Greek society, advising leaders and influencing major decisions. I’m fascinated by the idea of the Oracle, but I can’t help but wonder: was it actually real, or was it more of a cultural tradition wrapped in mythology? Did the Pythia (the priestess) really go into trances and communicate messages from Apollo, or were the prophecies more a product of interpretation and societal influence?

I know there are theories about gases in the area that might have caused the Pythia’s trance-like state, but I’d love to hear others’ perspectives or any interesting facts you might know. Do you think the Oracle was genuinely mystical, or was it more a well-constructed tradition that reflected the values and beliefs of ancient Greece? Looking forward to your thoughts!

Where did the Oracle of Delphi Come From?

I’ve been reading about the Oracle of Delphi and had a question I can’t stop thinking about. We usually think of the Oracle—also known as the Pythia—as a figure from Greek mythology. But I wonder… was she actually a real person?

I came across a few sources that suggest the Oracle was a historical role held by actual women, not just a mythological character. If that’s true, wouldn’t that make her a real historical figure, or maybe even many women over time who acted as the Oracle?

I’m really curious about where the tradition started, and if there’s archaeological or historical evidence for her existence outside of myth.

Does anyone here know more about the origins of the Oracle of Delphi?
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