08-30-2009, 07:34 PM
I have a question regarding the use of the treasuries at Delphi. It is my understanding that the treasures deposited at Delphi were either sacrificial in nature to thank or curry good favor with the gods or as a form of payment to receive a prophecy. These "deposits" of course would not be liquid assets. However, there is mention in Thucydides' "The History of the Peloponnessian War" where the Athenians propose to use the monies from Delphi to finance the hiring of sailors.
To what extent did Delphi function as a bank? It seems the evidence is quite sparse and I can only find one occasion were the treasuries were used to finance projects. Any ancient references would be greatly appreciated.
To what extent did Delphi function as a bank? It seems the evidence is quite sparse and I can only find one occasion were the treasuries were used to finance projects. Any ancient references would be greatly appreciated.
Michael Paglia