The Valley of the Muses (Museon Pedion) is the mythological and archaeological heart of Mount Helicon. Here, in a landscape of springs and ancient plane trees on the lower slopes of the mountain, stood the sanctuary of the nine Muses — goddesses of poetry, music, dance, history, astronomy and all creative knowledge.
The Sanctuary of the Muses
The ancient sanctuary hosted festivals (the Museia) celebrated every four years, with musical contests and artistic competitions. Statues of the Muses, erected by poets and artists, once filled this valley. The remains of the sanctuary are visible, though modest — the landscape itself carries more meaning than the physical remains.
Hesiod and Ascra
Hesiod, one of the earliest Greek poets (8th century BC), was born in Ascra — a village at the foot of Helicon in or near this valley. He describes receiving inspiration from the Muses on the mountain, giving us the earliest literary account of Helicon as a sacred creative landscape. The village of Ascra has not been definitively located, but the general area is this valley.
The Sacred Springs
Two springs — Aganippe and Hippocrene — were sacred to the Muses. Drinking from them was said to bestow poetic inspiration. Hippocrene was associated with the winged horse Pegasus, whose hoof-strike was said to have opened the spring. These springs continue to flow in the landscape today.
The Museum
A small museum in the valley contains finds from the sanctuary. Check locally for current opening hours before visiting.