Ancient Kleitoria (known in antiquity as Kleitor) was an ancient city of Arcadia, in the Peloponnese, which was located near the present-day city of Kleitoria, in the region of Kalavryta. Kleitor was one of the important cities of the northern region of Arcadia, and played an important role in the ancient history of the region.
History
The city took its name from the mythical Cleitor, son of Azana, one of the first kings of Arcadia. Kleitor was a member of the Achaean Commonwealth, an important ancient Greek federal state that existed from the 4th to the 2nd century BC.
The city was famous for its springs and waters, as well as for the river Cleitor, which flows nearby. In ancient Greek tradition, the waters of the Kleitor River were considered miraculous, as they were believed to have the power to “cure” people of their passion for wine. Pausanias, the well-known ancient traveler, mentions this tradition in his work “Greece Tour”.
Archaeological findings
Various archaeological findings have been found in the area of Ancient Kleitoria, such as remains of the ancient market, temples and the city wall. The ruins of the ancient theater of Cleitora are one of the most impressive remains of the city and are testimony to its importance in the cultural life of the time. In addition, coins and other archaeological artifacts were found indicating the importance of the city in the region.
Today, the remains of the Ancient Cleitoria constitute an important archaeological site, which attracts visitors interested in the history and culture of ancient Arcadia. Excavations continue, offering new evidence about the life and history of the city.
