The Cult of Aphrodite in Bosporus

Student: Prokopenko Sofiya

Educational Programme: Classical Studies (Bachelor)

Year of Graduation: 2024

Aphrodite Urania, the mistress of Apaturum, belonging to the Bosporan pantheon, played a noticeable role in ancient society. This proposed investigation delves into the examination of the cult of Aphrodite in the Bosporus region to deepen our understanding of the religious practices prevalent in this area. The study focuses on the analysis of ancient texts, epigraphy, and iconography, connected to the worship of the goddess, aiming to unveil the nature, functions, and significance of the deity in the Bosporus. The analysis of key sources pertaining to the cult of Aphrodite Urania, as well as critical thinking, serves as a cornerstone, providing insights into the essence of the worship. Furthermore, description, systematization, and the interpretative method enable a nuanced contextualization of the cult.

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