While Thebes may not be a top tourist destination in Greece, it’s renowned for its rich history, earning it a spot among Europe’s oldest cities. Legend has it that Cadmus, a figure of Greek mythology, founded this city in Viotia. However, Homer’s epics credit its creation to the brothers Zethos and Amphion. As the story goes, Amphion’s lyre-playing enchanted the stones, causing them to form the famed walls of the seven-gated city on their own. Thebes and its port have a storied past that continues to this day.
Thebes and its legendary port
The Port of Ancient Anthedon, one of Thebes’ most historic sites, appears untouched by time. This ancient city, once a bustling marketplace, was the counterpart to the powerful city of Thebes, where 100 triremes were constructed following a Theban decree.
The port is arguably the best-preserved ancient port in Greece, with many parts still visible above water. This is noteworthy as most ancient ports are now submerged due to rising sea levels. The ancient city of Anthidon served as a crucial port and connection between Evia and Boeotia. Here, Ancient Phoenician ships docked to transport purple shells used to produce a renowned dye.
The Port of Anthidona was spacious for its time, featuring two jetties. Its entrance could be sealed with a chain to safeguard against enemy attacks and strong northern winds. Epaminondas, a Theban general, built ships in this port intending to overthrow Athens.
During the Byzantine era, the city experienced a decline due to pirate invasions. This led its residents to retreat inland, particularly to the northern slopes of Mount Messapio, now known as Ktypas. Here, they established a pastoral settlement that became the heart of the present-day community of Loukisia. As they moved from the coast to the mountain’s base, they transported construction materials from previous structures. These materials were used to build the small church of Ag. Georgiou, which stands outside the village of Loukisia today.
Excavations at the site of the ancient port have been carried out by Greeks, but also by German and American excavators.
Photo source: Up Drones
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