The cult of the Three Nymphs in light of the inscriptions at the temple in Burdapa

Abstract

The article analyzes the cult of the Three Nymphs in Burdapa on the basis of epigraphic sources, focusing on the social and ethnic structure of the worshippers. The aim of the study is to determine the origin of the participants in the cult and its place in the religious life of the region. The author uses the method of onomastic analysis, examining the names of dedicants recorded in inscriptions. The results indicate that among worshippers names of Thracian origin predominate, which points to the local character of the cult. A significant role was also played by women, who appear frequently among dedicants. At the same time, the influence of Romanization and Hellenization was limited and did not significantly change the structure of the community. The cult shows features of syncretism, combining local traditions with external elements. The analysis confirms the continuity of indigenous religious practices. The conclusion is that the cult of the Nymphs in Burdapa reflects the persistence of Thracian identity under Roman rule.