Flogging at Sparta

This is the sanctuary of Artemis Orthia at Sparta. Spartan boys had to run up to the Temple (which is the square building in the background) and steal something while men flogged (whipped) them. This was designed to be a test of endurance. Boys frequently died during this ritual. Legend said Artemis was not satisfied until her altar was covered with blood. The block in the front of the photo are remains of the stands later erected by the Romans to watch this spectacle for entertainment. The existence of the ritual and the stands tells us something essential about the Spartans and about the Romans.