The ancient greek made their instrument, the "Kithara.It was usually designed with a square base and considered a demanding instrument as it required skillful playing therefore it was an instrument for professional musicians called “kitharodoi” and was used in music competitions. It is regarded as an improved form of the lyre. As shown in various depictions from ancient vases, etc, the arms and the crossbar are supported by a mechanism of plates ensuring the tension of the strings, most probably allowing also the musician to "lock and unlock" the crossbar, so that by turning it to change the pitch of all of the strings at once. The left hand through the sash (like when playing the lyre), selectively touched some strings in order to stop their vibration after a pounding. The (Classical period) strings of the guitar and the lyre were 7 or 8"
