Greco-Hyperborean Contacts in Antiquity

The Hyperboreans appeared at key moments in the history of Ancient Greece, bringing innovations to its culture and helping in time of need. They had important dealings with the Greeks until historical times. This study presents some of their contacts, mainly focusing on the Hyperborean maidens and the philological interpretations of Herodotus (4.35). Special attention is given to pseudo-Plato’s account of Opis and Hecaergus (Agre) having brought sacred bronze tablets with eschatological teachings from the Hyperboreans to Delos, which remarkably resemble the Orphic gold tablets. Olen, although being from Lycia, is also mentioned, in the context of Pausanias (10.5.7-8) account, where the poet seems to have close connections with the Hyperboreans.