Guide to Greece 1: Central Greece by Pausanias (Penguin Classics)

“Pausanias’s Description of Greece” is a work by the ancient Greek traveler and geographer Pausanias. It is an important historical and geographical guide to various regions of ancient Greece. The work is divided into ten books, each focusing on a different region or city-state. The first book is indeed dedicated to Central Greece.

Pausanias wrote his “Description of Greece” in the 2nd century AD. In this extensive travelogue, he describes the topography, history, and notable landmarks of various Greek cities and regions. Pausanias’s work provides valuable insights into the culture, mythology, and architecture of ancient Greece.

In the first book, which is dedicated to Central Greece, Pausanias likely covers areas such as Boeotia, Attica, and other regions in the central part of the Greek mainland. He describes important cities, temples, statues, and other significant sites. The work is not only a geographical guide but also a cultural and historical one, as Pausanias often provides mythological and historical anecdotes associated with the places he visits.

“Pausanias’s Description of Greece” is an essential source for scholars and historians studying ancient Greece. It offers a unique perspective on the landscape and cultural heritage of the region during the time of the Roman Empire.