Settlements > Greek Settlements

Greek Settlements

Background

During the Achaemenid Empire, which lasted from approximately 550 BCE to 330 BCE, several Greek cities came under Persian rule. Here's a brief overview of some of these cities:

Miletus:

Miletus was one of the most prominent Greek cities in Asia Minor and a major center of trade and culture. It came under Persian control in the mid-6th century BCE during the reign of Cyrus the Great. Miletus played a significant role in Persian administration and served as a naval base for the Persian fleet.

Sardis:

Sardis was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia and later became an important administrative center under Persian rule.It was known for its wealth and strategic importance, situated in western Anatolia (modern-day Turkey).Sardis served as the residence of the satrap (governor) of Lydia, who governed the surrounding region on behalf of the Persian king.

Ephesus:

Ephesus was a major Greek city located near the western coast of Asia Minor, in present-day Turkey.It was an important center of commerce, religion, and culture, known for its Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.Ephesus came under Persian control following the conquests of Cyrus the Great and remained a significant city throughout the Achaemenid period.

Athens:

Athens, the capital of Attica in mainland Greece, was not directly under Persian rule but was subjected to Persian influence and interference.Athens played a central role in the Greco-Persian Wars, particularly during the Persian invasions of Greece in the early 5th century BCE.The Athenians famously defeated the Persians at the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE and played a crucial role in the Greek victory at the Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE.

The Cyclades:

Several islands in the Aegean Sea, including the Cyclades, came under Persian control during the Achaemenid period.These islands were strategically located along maritime trade routes and served as naval bases for the Persian fleet.Some of the islands, such as Naxos and Delos, were centers of trade and religious worship.These are just a few examples of Greek cities and regions that were part of the Achaemenid Empire or came under Persian influence during this period. The interactions between Persia and Greece, both culturally and politically, had a profound impact on the history of the ancient Mediterranean world.