Barbara Tsakirgis, Associate Professor of Classics and Art History; Chair, Department of Classical Studies, Vanderbilt University

Greek houses of the Classical and Hellenistic periods incorporated a number of features that were designed for the safe-keeping of the entire oikos, the homeowner, his family and slaves, and their possessions. While many of these security measures do not survive intact in the archaeological record, they can be reconstructed from both scant remains and from literary and epigraphical accounts.

The physical provisions for security in Greek houses were many, including stoutly built doors and window shutters. Such means served both to enhance the actual security and the impression of it.

Additionally, human and divine protection alike were features of domestic security. Slaves were stationed at the street door and images of Hermes were placed there to add to that protection. Still other divinities, including Herakles Alexikakos, were also called upon to protect the home. On the other hand, while Classical Athens possessed a police force of Scythian archers, there is no evidence that this police force was charged with protecting private property.

Outside of urban areas, householders in the countryside gained added protection from the towers which were a common feature of farmhouses. Square or round in section, these towers were used both to protect the family and as storage places for grain.