Dance and Ecstasy in the Ancient Near Eastern Ishtar Cult in Bochum: Free Lecture at the vhs Building
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About this Event
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An evening full of myths, power, and ancient Near Eastern ecstasy
On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the Volkshochschule Bochum in the BVZ will open its doors for a special lecture evening about Inana / Ishtar, one of the most fascinating goddesses of the Ancient Near East. The event begins at 6:00 PM, lasts until 8:00 PM, and is free of charge. The course is conducted in cooperation with CERES, the Center for Religious Studies at RUB. ([vhs.bochum.de](https://vhs.bochum.de/kurssuche/kurs/Tanz-und-Ekstase-im-altorientalischen-Ischtar-Kult/M16001))
When history becomes a sensual experience
The title does not promise too much: it is about a deity associated with untamed character, dangerous adventures, and ecstatic festivals. The evening combines scholarly expertise in religious studies with a lively narrative style and makes visible why Ishtar has fascinated humanity for millennia as a colorful figure between the underworld, life force, and rituals. ([vhs.bochum.de](https://vhs.bochum.de/kurssuche/kurs/Tanz-und-Ekstase-im-altorientalischen-Ischtar-Kult/M16001))
A program with scientific depth
The course is led by Rosel Pientka-Hinz, who researches as a recognized expert in Ancient Near Eastern studies at the Ruhr University Bochum. Her academic career includes studies in Münster and Marburg, a dissertation on the late Babylonian period, as well as many years of teaching and research experience in the field of the Ancient Near East. This lends the evening academic authority and makes it particularly exciting for those interested in cultural history. ([khk.ceres.rub.de](https://khk.ceres.rub.de/en/person/rosel-pientka-hinz/?utm_source=openai))
Location, atmosphere, and event framework
The event will take place at the vhs in the BVZ at Gustav-Heinemann-Platz 2-6 in 44787 Bochum, Room 040. The Volkshochschule Bochum is barrier-free accessible, has three elevators, and mentions the P3 parking garage at the town hall / education and administration center as a parking option. Thus, the event experience is also well organized. ([vhs.bochum.de](https://vhs.bochum.de/kurssuche/kurs/Tanz-und-Ekstase-im-altorientalischen-Ischtar-Kult/M16001))
Why attending is worthwhile
This evening offers not only a cultural insight into the religious history of the Ancient Near East but also an inspiring mix of event atmosphere, knowledge transfer, and vivid presentation. Those interested in mythology, ancient cultures, and unusual educational offerings will experience an event with depth, character, and clear added value. ([vhs.bochum.de](https://vhs.bochum.de/kurssuche/kurs/Tanz-und-Ekstase-im-altorientalischen-Ischtar-Kult/M16001))
Conclusion: Those looking for a free, well-founded, and atmospheric lecture with a strong cultural historical focus in Bochum should save this date. The evening invites participants to rediscover Ishtar as a multifaceted deity and to experience the topic live at vhs Bochum. ([vhs.bochum.de](https://vhs.bochum.de/kurssuche/kurs/Tanz-und-Ekstase-im-altorientalischen-Ischtar-Kult/M16001))
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