The ancient Greek instrument known as the lyre is a stringed instrument that has been around since antiquity. It consists of a sound box with strings stretched across it, and is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum. The lyre was used in religious ceremonies, as well as for entertainment and accompaniment to singing and dancing. It was also used in competitions between musicians. The lyre is an iconic symbol of Ancient Greece and is still used today in some forms of folk music.