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Parthenon Symposia Series: A Corinthian Hydra: The Fountain of Peirene Lost and Found by Betsey Robinson

Presented by Conservancy for The Parthenon and Centennial Park at The Parthenon

March 23, 2010

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The American School of Classical Studies began excavations at Corinth in 1896, but two years later, there were few noteworthy finds. The 1898 discovery of Peirene was a turning point, and as the ruined fountain-house came to light, the archaeologists proclaimed that their "period of groping" was over. Not only had they found one of the most famous fountains of antiquity, but by putting Peirene on the map, they knew exactly where to dig for Corinth's ancient center.

Vanderbilt’s Dr. Betsey Robinson will explore the history of the fountain’s excavation. Peirene itself was monumental, with high walls, decorative arches, and a vast network of rock-cut tunnels, which still supplied drinking water to the local population. As told through journals, letters, and photographs, Peirene's modern history offers unique insights into ancient waterworks, and a truthful mirror of America's early efforts in classical archaeology. Betsey Robinson is Associate Professor of History of Art and Classical Studies at Vanderbilt. A specialist on Hellenistic and Roman architecture, art, and archaeology, Dr. Robinson earned her B.A. at Harvard and her Ph.D. at University of Pennsylvania.

The lecture, which is jointly sponsored by the Archaeological Institute of America and the Conservancy for the Parthenon and Centennial Park, will take place at the Parthenon at 7:00 p.m., with a reception following. Admission is free, but reservations are required.