Jan Bartek – AncientPages.com – It is always splendid when ancient knowledge can be preserved for future generations. One of the greatest Greek philosophers was Aristotle of Stagira (c. 384 BC – 322 BC), whose thoughts still influence the modern world.

The archaeological site of Lyceum. Credit: YPPOA

Aristotle “founded his school, called High School, in 335 BC. It was located just outside Athens in the vicinity of a beautiful grove dedicated to the god Apollo Lyceus. This prominent school, certainly comparable to our modern universities, became known as the Lyceum, an education and research center.” 1

The basis of Aristotelian thought, or the theory of the ultimate nature of reality, involves belief in the primacy of the individual in the realm of existence. It is a subject that fascinates modern philosophers, physicists, and the general public.

Admirers of the Greek philosopher will be delighted to know the Ministry of Culture and Sports In Greece, in collaboration with the National Research Center for Natural Sciences “Democritos” is reviving Aristotelian thought at the archaeological site of the Lyceum. There, there public will have access to digital information presenting the life and work of the ancient Greek philosopher and thinker Aristotle.

Many internationally renowned academics, scientists, and artists are working on the project. Credit: YPPOA

In a press statement, the Ministry of Culture and Sports In Greece announced that the installation of interactive information systems, the utilization of the various available digital technology, and the presentation of information about the Lyceum area would appeal to visitors of all ages.

In the southern part of the archaeological site, there will be four interactive touch screens with access to multimedia information (texts, images, videos, representations, etc.). The composition includes four rectangular units covered by a corrugated canopy. Access to the pavilion is from the ends with ramps. Towards the courtyard of the palaestra, three terraces-stands are formed for standing and viewing. A sound installation is provided at selected points along the visiting routes to inform the visitors.

Visitors will be able to learn about the teachings of Aristotle and enjoy the surroundings.: Credit: YPPOA

“We are excited about the proposal’s approval by the Ministry of Culture, which concerns creating an innovative cultural experience for the Archaeological Site of the Lyceum of Aristotle. The aim is to create a hub around ancient Greek philosophy in the heart of Athens that encourages reflection and discussions on philosophy, with the help of modern technology highlighting its universality. The reason for this proposal was the project of the “Stegi Greek Ideas,” which is implemented by the Ministry of Culture and Sports with the “Demokritos” EKEFE at the Athens Conservatory.

It is a collaboration that combines knowledge, research, and creativity in technology, architecture, and philosophy. Our vision is for this proposal to be a model for intervention in archaeological sites, highlighting the relationship between the site and intangible philosophical ideas and enriching the visitor experience,” George Nunesis, President of EKEFE “Demokritos” said in a press statement.

The School of Athens by Rafael. Credit: Public Domain

Internationally renowned academics, scientists, and artists oversee the selection of information material (writing texts, audio-visual material) and the gradual creation of a hub for Aristotle, his life, and his work. The subjects are divided according to Aristotle: poetics (medicine, shipbuilding, carpentry, agriculture, engineering, construction, painting), practical (ethics, politics), theoretical (first philosophy, mathematics, natural philosophy, natural history), in his life and travels (from the period of his apprenticeship in Plato’s Academy.

One could say that once the project has finished, the visitor will have the feeling he or she has walked straight into the great philosopher’s ancient school where he taught, discussed ideas, and strolled with friends and students. Only this time will the school have much more advanced equipment.

Written by Jan Bartek – AncientPages.com Staff Writer

Expand for references