Cithara

The cithara was an ancient Greek stringed musical instrument similar to a lyre or harp. It had a rectangular wooden body with multiple strings stretched over it, which were plucked with the fingers or a plectrum to produce sound. The cithara was used in performances, ceremonies, and competitions, often associated with music, poetry, and intellectual gatherings in ancient Greece. It was considered a symbol of cultural refinement and was played by professional musicians known as citharoedi. Its design and technique influenced the development of later stringed instruments in Western music.