In ancient Greece, prostitution was a legally recognized and regulated profession. Among the many ingenious methods used to attract clients, one of the most memorable was the use of footwear that left messages in the dirt. Some prostitutes wore sandals with carved lettering on the soles that spelled out “ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΙ,” meaning “follow me.” As they walked through dusty city streets, each step impressed the phrase into the ground, creating a literal trail for potential customers.
These sandals served both a practical and symbolic purpose. In a society where visual advertising was limited, this method allowed for a subtle yet direct way of inviting attention. It was also an early form of branding and clever marketing, showing how sex workers in antiquity found ways to control and influence their visibility.
Prostitution in classical Athens was widespread and came in different forms, from street walkers to high-status courtesans known as hetairai. While hetairai were often educated and moved in elite circles, most prostitutes worked in brothels or solicited from the streets. The government taxed brothels, and sex workers were often registered and regulated.
Though their social standing was complicated, prostitutes played a visible role in the urban life of Athens. The “follow me” sandals offer a striking glimpse into how ancient workers used creativity to navigate the public space and promote their services. It is a reminder that even in ancient times, marketing ingenuity could walk hand-in-hand with survival.
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