Download Free Ancient Syracuse Book in PDF and EPUB Free Download. You can read online Ancient Syracuse and write the review.

Syracuse possesses a unique place in the history of the ancient Mediterranean because of its contribution to Greek culture and political thought and practice. Even in the first century BC Cicero could still declare ’You have often heard that of all the Greek cities Syracuse is the greatest and most beautiful.’ Sicily’s strategic location in the Mediterranean brought the city prosperity and power, placing it in the first rank of states in the ancient world. The history and governance of the city were recorded from the fifth century BC and the volume of literary sources comes close to matching the records of Athens or Rome. Combining literary and material evidence this monograph traces the history of Syracuse, offering new arguments about the date of the city’s foundation, and continues through the fifth century when, as a democracy, Syracuse’s military strength grew to equal that of Athens or Sparta, surpassing them in the early fourth century under the tyrant Dionysius I. From ca. 350 BC, however, the city’s fortunes declined as the state was wracked with civil strife as the tyranny lost control. The result was a collapse so serious that the city faced complete and imminent destruction.
Dubbed 'the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all' by Cicero, Syracuse also boasts the richest history of anywhere in Sicily. Syracuse, City of Legends - the first modern historical guide to the city - explores Syracuse's place within the island and the wider Mediterranean and reveals why it continues to captivate visitors today, more than two and a half millennia after its foundation. Over its long and colourful life, Syracuse has been home to many creative figures, including Archimedes, the greatest mathematician of the ancient world, as well as host to Plato, Scipio Africanus, conqueror of Hannibal, and Caravaggio, who have all contributed to the rich history and atmosphere of this beguiling and distinctive Sicilian city. Generously illustrated, Syracuse, City of Legends also offers detailed descriptions of the principal monuments from each period in the city's life, explaining their physical location as well as their historical context.This vivid and engaging history weaves together the history, architecture and archaeology of Syracuse and will be an invaluable companion for anyone visiting the city as well as a compelling introduction to its ancient and modern history.
Volume one of this sweeping history chronicles the turbulent ancient history of Syracuse from the rise of Gelon to the death of Dionysius I. Situated at the heart of the Mediterranean, Syracuse was one of the most important city-states of the classical Greek world. Coveted for its wealth and strategic location, it was caught in the middle as Carthage, Epirus, Athens and then Rome each battled to gain control of the region. The threat of expansionist enemies on all sides made for a tumultuous situation within the city, resulting in repeated coups and a series of remarkable tyrants, such as Gelon, Timoleon and Dionysius. In volume one of The Tyrants of Syracuse, Jeff Champion traces the course of Syracuse's wars from the Battle of Himera against the Carthaginians down to the death of Dionysius I, whose reign proved to be the high tide of the city's power and influence. Within this period, Syracuse heroically defeated the Athenian force that besieged them for more than two years—an event with far-reaching ramifications.
Discusses the people, places and events found in over 2,000 years of Greek civilization.
As an invaluable resource for students and general audiences investigating Ancient Greek culture and history, this encyclopedia provides a thorough examination of the Mediterranean world and its influence on modern society. All Things Ancient Greece examines the history and cultural life of Ancient Greece until the death of Philip II of Macedon in 336 BCE. The encyclopedia shows how the various city-states developed from the Bronze Age to the end of the Classical Age, influencing the Greek world and beyond. The cultural achievements of the Greeks detailed in this two-volume set include literature, politics, medicine, religion, and the arts. This work has entries on the various city-states, regions, battles, culture, and ideas that helped shape the ancient Greek world and its societies. Each entry delves into detailed topics with suggested readings. Many entries include sidebars containing primary documents from ancient sources that explore ancillary ideas, biographies, and specific examples from literature and philosophy. Readers, both students of ancient history and a general audience, are encouraged to interact with the material either chronologically, thematically, or geographically.
Welcome to "Exploring the Unknown: Mapping Ancient Europe's Secrets" In the annals of history, there exists a tapestry woven with threads of exploration and discovery, where intrepid adventurers embarked on perilous journeys to chart the uncharted territories of the ancient world. Among these brave souls were the cartographers and explorers of Europe, whose quest for knowledge and adventure shaped the course of history and redefined the boundaries of the known world.
An unbeatable guide to Sicily, packed with insider tips and ideas, detailed maps, top 10 lists, and a laminated pull-out map, all designed to help you see the very best of Sicily. Stroll through the buzzing artistic centre of Palermo, admire ancient Greek sites at Selinunte and Valle dei Templi, hike the lower slopes of Mount Etna, or explore the spectacular Aeolian Islands. From Top 10 beaches to Top 10 things to do for free - discover the best of Sicily with this easy-to-use travel guide. Inside Top 10 Sicily: - Seven easy-to-follow itineraries, perfect for a day trip, a weekend, or four-day trip - Top 10 lists showcase the best attractions in Sicily, covering Palermo, Monreale, Syracuse, Villa Romana del Casale, and more - Sturdy laminated pull-out map of Sicily, plus five full-color area maps - In-depth area guides explore Sicily's most interesting neighborhoods, with the best places for shopping, going out and sightseeing - Color-coded chapters divided by area make it easy to find information quickly and plan your day - Essential travel tips including our expert choices of where to stay, eat, shop and sightsee, plus useful transport, visa and health information - Color maps help you navigate with ease - Covers Palermo, Northwest Sicily; Northeast Sicily; Southwest Sicily; and Southeast Sicily Staying for longer and looking for a more comprehensive guide to Sicily? Try our DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Sicily. About DK Eyewitness Travel: DK's Top 10 guides take the work out of planning a short trip, with easy-to-read maps, tips, and tours to inform and enrich your weekend trip or cultural break. DK is the world's leading illustrated reference publisher, producing beautifully designed books for adults and children in over 120 countries.