"This catalog is issued on the occasion of the exhibition "Gods and Mortals at Olympus: Ancient Dion, City of Zeus," held at the Onassis Cultural Center, New York, March 24-June 18, 2016"--Title page verso

Located on the eastern slopes of Mount Olympus and atop the bubbling source of the ancient river Baphyras, the city of Dion and its natural environment were interpreted by the ancient Greeks as divine. Dion's proximity to the gods was reflected in the cults and daily existence of local residents but also prompted the area's critical role in establishing the identity of the royal house of Philip and Alexander the Great. With Zeus Olympus as their principal deity, generations of royalty and their followers celebrated their dedication to the god with sanctuaries, festivals, temples, statues, and public buildings, transforming the city into a central sacred site and a monumental urban center. The exhibition presents highlights of the finds of the last fifty years of archaeological excavations and is organized by the Onassis Foundation (USA) and the Dion Excavations, in collaboration with the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports--Ephorate of Antiquities of Pieria--Publisher's description.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 151-158).