palaestras were often near gymnasiums. they were sometimes a part of gymnasium complexes. most cities in the greek world had a palaestra. large cities may have had several. some palaestras were privately owned. most were built with taxes. the palaestra was very much a part of the everyday lives of greek men and boys. some men felt as much affection for the palaestra they grew up in as modern men feel for their "alma mater". some men were buried in their favorite palaestra.