Midas, Matar, and Homer at Gordion and Midas City

Abstract

This article examines the architectural remains of the Phrygian site of Gordion and the so-called Midas Monument in Midas City to acquire a more nuanced understanding of both Midas and his capital city during the late 8th century B.C. The article provides a new reconstruction of Middle Phrygian Gordion while also suggesting how the inscriptions on the Midas Monument's facade can be used to clarify the political and religious components of Midas's kingship as well as his relationship to the goddess Matar. The final section of the article considers how the public buildings of Gordion's citadel might have functioned in the 8th century, along with what roles Troy and Homer may have played in elite feasting there.