Written by Ed Whalen, Contributing Writer, Classical Wisdom

The ancient Agora of Athens is one of the most influential archaeological sites and says a lot about the life of the Greeks. ‘Agora’ literally meaning ‘a place of gathering.’ It was a marketplace where every Athenian citizen participated in governance, overlooked judicial matters, traded commodities, exchanged ideas, or worked together to build the most dynamic society in the world.

In fact, the Agora of Athens is the birthplace of democracy. It is at this place that brilliant minds like Aristotle and Socrates gained popularity, taught their disciples, and eventually died.

An imaginary depiction of the Agora of ancient Athens at the time of Pericles.

For centuries, this area served as a common ground for merchants, artisans, politicians, and intellectuals. It was considered an honor to participate in such ‘common activities’ that led to the development of society. (A quick fact: the term ‘idiot’ or idiotis, was coined to mock people who avoided participating in such common activities.)

Written by Lydia Serrant, Contributing Writer, Classical Wisdom

What is believed to be the first winery in the world was recently found in a cave in Vayots Dzor, Armenia, and dates back to around 6100 BC. It currently holds the title as the oldest-known winery (also, fun fact, it is home of the world’s oldest leather shoe).

It is believed that the Armenians were the first to use the barefoot method of winemaking, but there is evidence of wine production in China as far back as 7000 BC. Wherever it started, there is no doubt that the love affair between humans and wine is a long one. Wine has a very complex and interesting history with nations, consumers, and individuals who pioneered the spread of wine and wine cultivation.

Baccus by Caravaggio (1596-97)

The Rise of Wine