Amphictyonic League

Amphictyonic League, league of ancient Greek tribes, which was formed to protect the temple of Demeter at Anthela (now Anthíli), near Thermopylae. Protection was later extended to the temple of Apollo at Delphi. Originally a religious organization, the league eventually became the political instrument of its strongest members. The 12 members of the league met semiannually, alternately at Delphi and at Thermopylae. Each tribe represented had two votes but could send additional delegates. The league fought four Sacred Wars; the first (about 595-586 bc) was fought against the Phocian city of Crisa (near modern Khrisón). In the second Sacred War (about 448 bc) Athens helped Phocis regain control of Delphi. During the third and fourth Sacred Wars (about 356-346 bc and 339-338 bc), King Philip II of Macedonia used his position in the league to dominate the affairs of Greece.