Gymnopaedes

/ˌɡɪmnoʊˈpɛdiːz/ noun

Definition

A festival or celebration in ancient Sparta where young men exercised and danced naked, or a musical composition inspired by such ancient practices.

Etymology

From Greek 'gymnos' (naked) + 'paides' (boys, children). The term references the practice in ancient Sparta of physical training performed without clothing.

Kelly Says

The Gymnopaedia festival was basically ancient Sparta's version of a sporting event mixed with music and dance—and it inspired an incredibly beautiful piece of classical music called 'Gymnopédie' by composer Erik Satie!

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