Abstract
This paper draws attention to the development of processions and pilgrimages in ancient Greece which originated from so-called delegations (pompé) which originally had no religious meanings. However, since the 6th century the term pompé meant a ‘sacrificial procession’ which included animals and gifts presented to the Gods. Besides the official processions which were organized by the cultural and/or political elite, private processions existed as well. Many of the official state processions were regular events in which incense, beautiful garments and musical instruments played an important role. The paper analyses their different representations on vase paintings but also on ceramics. It stresses the many different functions of these events which transcended the religious sphere due the important socialand political roles they had for the Greek polis and the Panhellenic communities.