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1History

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1.1Prehistory and founding myths

1.2Corinth under the Bacchiadae

1.3Corinth under the tyrants

1.4Archaic Corinth after the tyrants

1.5Classical Corinth

1.5.1Peloponnesian War

1.5.2Corinthian War

1.5.3379–323 BC

1.6Hellenistic period

1.7Classical Roman era

1.7.1Biblical Corinth

1.8Medieval Roman (Byzantine) era

1.9Principality of Achaea

1.10Ottoman rule

1.11Independence

2Modern Corinth

3Ancient city and its environs

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3.1Acrocorinth, the acropolis

3.2Two ports: Lechaeum and Cenchreae

4Important monuments

5Notable people

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5.1Ancient Greece

5.2Medieval

6In literature

7See also

8References

9Further reading

10External links

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Ancient Corinth

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Coordinates: 37°54′19″N 22°52′49″E / 37.9053455°N 22.8801924°E / 37.9053455; 22.8801924

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

It has been suggested that Corinth Excavations be merged into this article. (Discuss) Proposed since October 2023.

Ancient city-state on the isthmus between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese.

This article is about the ancient city of Corinth. For the modern city, see Corinth.

37°54′19″N 22°52′49″E / 37.9053455°N 22.8801924°E / 37.9053455; 22.8801924

CorinthΚόρινθοςϘόρινθος900 BC–146 BC

Silver tridrachm from Corinth, c. 345–307 BC

Map of ancient CorinthReconstruction of the city of CorinthCapitalCorinthCommon languagesDoric GreekReligion HellenismGovernmentOligarchyHistorical eraClassical Antiquity• Founding 900 BC• Cypselus 657–627 BC• Captured and razed by Romans 146 BC

Preceded by

Succeeded by

Greek Dark Ages

Roman Republic

Corinth (British English: /ˈkɒrɪnθ/ KORR-inth, American English: /ˈkɔːrɪnθ/; Greek: Κόρινθος Korinthos; Doric Greek: Ϙόρινθος; Latin: Corinthus) was a city-state (polis) on the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow stretch of land that joins the Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece, roughly halfway between Athens and Sparta. The modern city of Corinth is located approximately 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) northeast of the ancient ruins. Since 1896, systematic archaeological investigations of the Corinth Excavations by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens have revealed large parts of the ancient city, and recent excavations conducted by the Greek Ministry of Culture have brought to light important new facets of antiquity.

For Christians, Corinth is well known from the two letters of Saint Paul in the New Testament, First and Second Corinthians. Corinth is also mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles as part of Paul the Apostle's missionary travels. In addition, the second book of Pausanias' Description of Greece is devoted to Corinth.

Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BC.[1] The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BC, built a new city in its place in 44 BC, and later made it the provincial capital of Greece.

History[edit]

Prehistory and founding myths[edit]

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Neolithic pottery suggests that the site of Corinth was occupied from at least as early as 6500 BC, and continually occupied into the Early Bronze Age,[2] when, it has been suggested, the settlement acted as a centre of trade.[3] However, there is a huge drop in ceramic remains during the Early Helladic II phase and only sparse ceramic remains in the EHIII and MH phases; thus, it appears that the area was very sparsely inhabited in the period immediately before the Mycenaean period. There was a settlement on the coast near Lechaion which traded across the Corinthian Gulf; the site of Corinth itself was likely not heavily occupied again until around 900 BC, when it is believed that the Dorians settled there.[4]

According to Corinthian myth as reported by Pausanias, the city was founded by Corinthos, a descendant of the god Zeus.[5] However, other myths suggest that it was founded by the goddess Ephyra, a daughter of the Titan Oceanus, thus the ancient name of the city (also Ephyra).

It seems likely that Corinth was also the site of a Bronze Age Mycenaean palace-city, like Mycenae, Tiryns, or Pylos. According to myth, Sisyphus was the founder of a race of ancient kings at Corinth. It was also in Corinth that Jason, the leader of the Argonauts, abandoned Medea.[6] During the Trojan War, as portrayed in the Iliad, the Corinthians participated under the leadership of Agamemnon.

In a Corinthian myth recounted to Pausanias in the 2nd century AD,[7] Briareus, one of the Hecatonchires, was the arbitrator in a dispute between Poseidon and Helios, between the sea and the sun. His verdict was that the Isthmus of Corinth belonged to Poseidon and the acropolis of Corinth (Acrocorinth) belonged to Helios. Helios, the sun god, received the area closest to the sky, while Poseidon, the sea god, got the isthmus by the sea.[8]

The Upper Peirene spring is located within the walls of the acropolis. "The spring, which is behind the temple, they say was the gift of Asopus to Sisyphus. The latter knew, so runs the legend, that Zeus had ravished Aegina, the daughter of Asopus, but refused to give information to the seeker before he had a spring given him on the Acrocorinthus." (Pausanias, 2.5.1).[9] According to legend, the winged horse Pegasus drank at the spring,[10] and was captured and tamed by the Corinthian hero Bellerophon.

Corinth under the Bacchiadae[edit]

Main article: Bacchiadae

View of Ancient Corinth

Corinth had been a backwater in Greece in the 8th century BC.[11] The Bacchiadae (Ancient Greek: Βακχιάδαι Bakkhiadai) were a tightly-knit Doric clan and the ruling kinship group of archaic Corinth in the 8th and 7th centuries BC, a period of expanding Corinthian cultural power. In 747 BC (a traditional date), an aristocracy ousted the Bacchiadai Prytaneis and reinstituted the kingship, about the time the Kingdom of Lydia (the endonymic Basileia Sfard) was at its greatest, coinciding with the ascent of Basileus Meles, King of Lydia. The Bacchiadae, numbering perhaps a couple of hundred adult males, took power from the last king Telestes (from the House of Sisyphos) in Corinth.[12] The Bacchiads dispensed with kingship and ruled as a group, governing the city by annually electing a prytanis (who held the kingly position[13] for his brief term),[14] probably a council (though none is specifically documented in the scant literary materials), and a polemarchos to head the army.

During Bacchiad rule from 747 to 650 BC, Corinth became a unified state. Large scale public buildings and monuments were constructed at this time. In 733 BC, Corinth established colonies at Corcyra and Syracuse. By 730 BC, Corinth emerged as a highly advanced Greek city with at least 5,000 people.[15]

Aristotle tells the story of Philolaus of Corinth, a Bacchiad who was a lawgiver at Thebes. He became the lover of Diocles, the winner of the Olympic games. They both lived for the rest of their lives in Thebes. Their tombs were built near one another and Philolaus' tomb points toward the Corinthian country, while Diocles' faces away.[16]

In 657 BC, polemarch Cypselus obtained an oracle from Delphi which he interpreted to mean that he should rule the city.[17]

He seized power and exiled the Bacchiadae.[18]

Corinth under the tyrants[edit]

Main article: Cypselus

Cypselus or Kypselos (Greek: Κύψελος) was the first tyrant of Corinth in the 7th century BC. From 658–628 BC, he removed the Bacchiad aristocracy from power and ruled for three decades. He built temples to Apollo and Poseidon in 650 BC.

Apollo Temple has been built in Doric style on the ruins of earlier temple, being a good example of peripteral temple, supported by 38 columns, 7 of which are still in place.

Archeological site located close to Temple of Apollo.

Archeological site of Ancient Theater first built in Corinth in 5th c. BC. The Theater could seat around 15,000 spectators.

Cypselus was the son of Eëtion and a disfigured woman named Labda. He was a member of the Bacchiad kin and usurped the power in archaic matriarchal right of his mother. According to Herodotus, the Bacchiadae heard two prophecies from the Delphic oracle that the son of Eëtion would overthrow their dynasty, and they planned to kill the baby once he was born. However, the newborn smiled at each of the men sent to kill him, and none of them could bear to strike the blow.

Labda then hid the baby in a chest,[19] and the men could not find him once they had composed themselves and returned to kill him. (Compare the infancy of Perseus.) The ivory chest of Cypselus was richly worked and adorned with gold. It was a votive offering at Olympia, where Pausanias gave it a minute description in his 2nd century AD travel guide.[20]

Cypselus grew up and fulfilled the prophecy. Corinth had been involved in wars with Argos and Corcyra, and the Corinthians were unhappy with their rulers. Cypselus was polemarch at the time (around 657 BC), the archon in charge of the military, and he used his influence with the soldiers to expel the king. He also expelled his other enemies, but allowed them to set up colonies in northwestern Greece.

He also increased trade with the colonies in Italy and Sicily. He was a popular ruler and, unlike many later tyrants, he did not need a bodyguard and died a natural death. Aristotle reports that "Cypselus of Corinth had made a vow that if he became master of the city, he would offer to Zeus the entire property of the Corinthians. Accordingly, he commanded them to make a return of their possessions."[21]

The city sent forth colonists to found new settlements in the 7th century BC, under the rule of Cypselus (r. 657–627 BC) and his son Periander (r. 627–587 BC). Those settlements were Epidamnus (modern day Durrës, Albania), Syracuse, Ambracia, Corcyra (modern day town of Corfu), and Anactorium. Periander also founded Apollonia in Illyria (modern day Fier, Albania) and Potidaea (in Chalcidice). Corinth was also one of the nine Greek sponsor-cities to found the colony of Naukratis in Ancient Egypt, founded to accommodate the increasing trade volume between the Greek world and pharaonic Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Psammetichus I of the 26th Dynasty.

Temple of Apollo, Ancient Corinth.

Periander (Περίανδρος) (r. 627–587 BC).

He ruled for thirty years and was succeeded as tyrant by his son Periander in 627 BC.[22] The treasury that Cypselus built at Delphi was apparently still standing in the time of Herodotus, and the chest of Cypselus was seen by Pausanias at Olympia in the 2nd century AD. Periander brought Corcyra to order in 600 BC.

Periander was considered one of the Seven Wise Men of Greece.[23] During his reign, the first Corinthian coins were struck. He was the first to attempt to cut across the Isthmus to create a seaway between the Corinthian and the Saronic Gulfs. He abandoned the venture due to the extreme technical difficulties that he met, but he created the Diolkos instead (a stone-built overland ramp). The era of the Cypselids was Corinth's golden age, and ended with Periander's nephew Psammetichus (Corinthian tyrant) [de], named after the hellenophile Egyptian Pharaoh Psammetichus I (see above).

Periander killed his wife Melissa. His son Lycophron found out and shunned him, and Periander exiled the son to Corcyra.[24] Periander later wanted Lycophron to replace him as ruler of Corinth, and convinced him to come home to Corinth on the condition that Periander go to Corcyra. The Corcyreans heard about this and killed Lycophron to keep away Periander.[25][26]

Archaic Corinth after the tyrants[edit]

581 BC: Periander's nephew and successor was assassinated, ending the tyranny.

581 BC: the Isthmian Games were established by leading families.

570 BC: the inhabitants started to use silver coins called 'colts' or 'foals'.

550 BC: Construction of the Temple of Apollo at Corinth (early third quarter of the 6th century BC).[27]

550 BC: Corinth allied with Sparta.

525 BC: Corinth formed a conciliatory alliance with Sparta against Argos.

519 BC: Corinth mediated between Athens and Thebes.

Around 500 BC: Athenians and Corinthians entreated Spartans not to harm Athens by restoring the tyrant.[28]

Just before the classical period, according to Thucydides, the Corinthians developed the trireme which became the standard warship of the Mediterranean until the late Roman period. Corinth fought the first naval battle on record against the Hellenic city of Corcyra.[29] The Corinthians were also known for their wealth due to their strategic location on the isthmus, through which all land traffic had to pass en route to the Peloponnese, including messengers and traders.[30]

Classical Corinth[edit]

Corinthian stater. Obverse: Pegasus with Koppa () (or Qoppa) beneath. Reverse: Athena wearing Corinthian helmet. Koppa symbolised the archaic spelling of the city name (Ϙόρινθος).

Statues in the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth.

Corinthian order columns in ancient Corinth.

In classical times, Corinth rivaled Athens and Thebes in wealth, based on the Isthmian traffic and trade. Until the mid-6th century, Corinth was a major exporter of black-figure pottery to city-states around the Greek world, later losing their market to Athenian artisans.

In classical times and earlier, Corinth had a temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, employing some thousand hetairas (temple prostitutes) (see also Temple prostitution in Corinth). The city was renowned for these temple prostitutes, who served the wealthy merchants and the powerful officials who frequented the city. Lais, the most famous hetaira, was said to charge tremendous fees for her extraordinary favours. Referring to the city's exorbitant luxuries, Horace is quoted as saying: "non licet omnibus adire Corinthum" ("Not everyone is able to go to Corinth").[31]

Corinth was also the host of the Isthmian Games. During this era, Corinthians developed the Corinthian order, the third main style of classical architecture after the Doric and the Ionic. The Corinthian order was the most complicated of the three, showing the city's wealth and the luxurious lifestyle, while the Doric order evoked the rigorous simplicity of the Spartans, and the Ionic was a harmonious balance between these two following the cosmopolitan philosophy of Ionians like the Athenians.

The city had two main ports: to the west on the Corinthian Gulf lay Lechaion, which connected the city to its western colonies (Greek: apoikiai) and Magna Graecia, while to the east on the Saronic Gulf the port of Kenchreai served the ships coming from Athens, Ionia, Cyprus and the Levant. Both ports had docks for the city's large navy.

Street in ancient Corinth.

In 491 BC, Corinth mediated between Syracuse and Gela in Sicily.

During the years 481–480 BC, the Conference at the Isthmus of Corinth (following conferences at Sparta) established the Hellenic League, which allied under the Spartans to fight the war against Persia. The city was a major participant in the Persian Wars, sending 400 soldiers to defend Thermopylae[32] and supplying forty warships for the Battle of Salamis under Adeimantos and 5,000 hoplites with their characteristic Corinthian helmets[citation needed]) in the following Battle of Plataea. The Greeks obtained the surrender of Theban collaborators with the Persians. Pausanias took them to Corinth where they were put to death.[33]

Following the Battle of Thermopylae and the subsequent Battle of Artemisium, which resulted in the captures of Euboea, Boeotia, and Attica,[34] the Greco-Persian Wars were at a point where now most of mainland Greece to the north of the Isthmus of Corinth had been overrun.[35]

Corinthian order.

Herodotus, who was believed to dislike the Corinthians, mentions that they were considered the second best fighters after the Athenians.[36]

In 458 BC, Corinth was defeated by Athens at Megara.

Peloponnesian War[edit]

In 435 BC, Corinth and its colony Corcyra went to war over Epidamnus.[37] In 433 BC, Athens allied with Corcyra against Corinth.[38] The Corinthian war against the Corcyrans was the largest naval battle between Greek city states until that time.[39] In 431 BC, one of the factors leading to the Peloponnesian War was the dispute between Corinth and Athens over Corcyra, which possibly stemmed from the traditional trade rivalry between the two cities or, as Thucydides relates - the dispute over the colony of Epidamnus.[40]

The Syracusans sent envoys to Corinth and Sparta to seek allies against Athenian invasion.[41] The Corinthians "voted at once to aid [the Syracusans] heart and soul".[42] The Corinthians also sent a group to Lacedaemon to rouse Spartan assistance. After a convincing speech from the Athenian renegade Alcibiades, the Spartans agreed to send troops to aid the Sicilians.[42]

In 404 BC, Sparta refused to destroy Athens, angering the Corinthians. Corinth joined Argos, Boeotia, and Athens against Sparta in the Corinthian War.[citation needed][clarification needed]

Demosthenes later used this history in a plea for magnanimous statecraft, noting that the Athenians of yesteryear had had good reason to hate the Corinthians and Thebans for their conduct during the Peloponnesian War,[43] yet they bore no malice whatever.[44]

Corinthian War[edit]

In 395 BC, after the end of the Peloponnesian War, Corinth and Thebes, dissatisfied with the hegemony of their Spartan allies, moved to support Athens against Sparta in the Corinthian War.[45][46]

As an example of facing danger with knowledge, Aristotle used the example of the Argives who were forced to confront the Spartans in the battle at the Long Walls of Corinth in 392 BC.[47]

379–323 BC[edit]

In 379 BC, Corinth, switching back to the Peloponnesian League, joined Sparta in an attempt to defeat Thebes and eventually take over Athens.[citation needed][clarification needed]

In 366 BC, the Athenian Assembly ordered Chares to occupy the Athenian ally and install a democratic government. This failed when Corinth, Phlius and Epidaurus allied with Boeotia.

Demosthenes recounts how Athens had fought the Spartans in a great battle near Corinth. The city decided not to harbor the defeated Athenian troops, but instead sent heralds to the Spartans. But the Corinthian heralds opened their gates to the defeated Athenians and saved them. Demosthenes notes that they “chose along with you, who had been engaged in battle, to suffer whatever might betide, rather than without you to enjoy a safety that involved no danger.”[48]

These conflicts further weakened the city-states of the Peloponnese and set the stage for the conquests of Philip II of Macedon.

Demosthenes warned that Philip's military force exceeded that of Athens and thus they must develop a tactical advantage. He noted the importance of a citizen army as opposed to a mercenary force, citing the mercenaries of Corinth who fought alongside citizens and defeated the Spartans.[49]

In 338 BC, after having defeated Athens and its allies, Philip II created the League of Corinth to unite Greece (included Corinth and Macedonia) in the war against Persia. Philip was named hegemon of the League.

In the spring of 337 BC, the Second congress of Corinth established the Common Peace.

Hellenistic period[edit]

By 332 BC, Alexander the Great was in control of Greece, as hegemon.

During the Hellenistic period, Corinth, like many other Greece cities, never quite had autonomy. Under the successors of Alexander the Great, Greece was contested ground, and Corinth was occasionally the battleground for contests between the Antigonids, based in Macedonia, and other Hellenistic powers. In 308 BC, the city was captured from the Antigonids by Ptolemy I, who claimed to come as a liberator of Greece from the Antigonids. However, the city was recaptured by Demetrius in 304 BC.[50]

Corinth remained under Antigonid control for half a century. After 280 BC, it was ruled by the faithful governor Craterus; but, in 253/2 BC, his son Alexander of Corinth, moved by Ptolemaic subsidies, resolved to challenge the Macedonian supremacy and seek independence as a tyrant. He was probably poisoned in 247 BC; after his death, the Macedonian king Antigonus II Gonatas retook the city in the winter of 245/44 BC.

The Macedonian rule was short-lived. In 243 BC, Aratus of Sicyon, using a surprise attack, captured the fortress of Acrocorinth and convinced the citizenship to join the Achaean League.

Thanks to an alliance agreement with Aratus, the Macedonians recovered Corinth once again in 224 BC; but, after the Roman intervention in 197 BC, the city was permanently brought into the Achaean League. Under the leadership of Philopoemen, the Achaeans went on to take control of the entire Peloponnesus and made Corinth the capital of their confederation.[51]

Classical Roman era[edit]

Further information: Roman Greece

Scene of the Battle of Corinth (146 BC): last day before the Roman legions looted and burned the Greek city of Corinth. The last day on Corinth, Tony Robert-Fleury, 1870.

Ancient Roman statue in the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth

In 146 BC, Rome declared war on the Achaean League and, after victories over league forces in the summer of that year, the Romans under Lucius Mummius besieged and captured Corinth. When he entered the city, Mummius killed all the men and sold the women and children into slavery before burning the city, for which he was given the cognomen Achaicus as the conqueror of the Achaean League.[52] There is archeological evidence of some minimal habitation in the years afterwards, but Corinth remained largely deserted until Julius Caesar refounded the city as Colonia Laus Iulia Corinthiensis (‘colony of Corinth in honour of Julius’) in 44 BC, shortly before his assassination. At this time, an amphitheatre was built. (37°54′35″N 22°53′31″E / 37.909824°N 22.892078°E / 37.909824; 22.892078 (Corinth (Corinth))

)

Under the Romans, Corinth was rebuilt as a major city in Southern Greece or Achaia. It had a large[53] mixed population of Romans, Greeks, and Jews. The city was an important locus for activities of The Roman Imperial Cult, and both Temple E[54] and the Julian Basilica[55] have been suggested as locations of imperial cult activity.

Biblical Corinth[edit]

See also: Early centers of Christianity § Greece

Pirene fountain

Corinth is mentioned many times in the New Testament, largely in connection with Paul the Apostle's mission there, testifying to the success of Caesar's refounding of the city. Traditionally, the Church of Corinth is believed to have been founded by Paul, making it an Apostolic See.

The apostle Paul first visited the city in AD 49 or 50, when Gallio, the brother of Seneca, was proconsul of Achaia.[56] Paul resided here for eighteen months (see Acts 18:11). Here he first became acquainted with Priscilla and Aquila, with whom he later traveled. They worked here together as tentmakers (from which is derived the modern Christian concept of tentmaking), and regularly attended the synagogue.

In AD 51/52, Gallio presided over the trial of the Apostle Paul in Corinth. This event provides a secure date for the book of the Acts of the Apostles within the Bible. Silas and Timothy rejoined Paul here, having last seen him in Berea (Acts 18:5). Acts 18:6 suggests that Jewish refusal to accept his preaching here led Paul to resolve no longer to speak in the synagogues where he travelled: "From now on I will go to the Gentiles".[57] However, on his arrival in Ephesus (Acts 18:19), the narrative records that Paul went to the synagogue to preach.

Paul wrote at least two epistles to the Christian church, the First Epistle to the Corinthians (written from Ephesus) and the Second Epistle to the Corinthians (written from Macedonia). The first Epistle occasionally reflects the conflict between the thriving Christian church and the surrounding community.

Some scholars believe that Paul visited Corinth for an intermediate "painful visit" (see 2 Corinthians 2:1) between the first and second epistles. After writing the second epistle, he stayed in Corinth for about three months[58] in the late winter, and there wrote his Epistle to the Romans.[59]

Based on clues within the Corinthian epistles themselves, some scholars have concluded that Paul wrote possibly as many as four epistles to the church at Corinth.[60] Only two are contained within the Christian canon (First and Second Epistles to the Corinthians); the other two letters are lost. (The lost letters would probably represent the very first letter that Paul wrote to the Corinthians and the third one, and so the First and Second Letters of the canon would be the second and the fourth if four were written.) Many scholars think that the third one (known as the "letter of the tears"; see 2 Cor 2:4) is included inside the canonical Second Epistle to the Corinthians (it would be chapters 10–13). This letter is not to be confused with the so-called "Third Epistle to the Corinthians", which is a pseudepigraphical letter written many years after the death of Paul.

There are speculations from Bruce Winter that the Jewish access to their own food in Corinth was disallowed after Paul's departure. By this theory, Paul had instructed Christian Gentiles to maintain Jewish access to food according to their dietary laws. This speculation is contested by Rudolph who argues that there is no evidence to support this theory. He instead argues that Paul had desired the Gentile Christians to remain assimilated within their Gentile communities and not adopt Jewish dietary procedures.[61]

Medieval Roman (Byzantine) era[edit]

Further information: Byzantine Greece and Peloponnese (theme)

The walled gates of Acrocorinth

The city was largely destroyed in the earthquakes of AD 365 and AD 375, followed by Alaric's invasion in 396. The city was rebuilt after these disasters on a monumental scale, but covered a much smaller area than previously. Four churches were located in the city proper, another on the citadel of the Acrocorinth, and a monumental basilica at the port of Lechaion.[62]

During the reign of Emperor Justinian I (527–565), a large stone wall was erected from the Saronic to the Corinthian gulfs, protecting the city and the Peloponnese peninsula from the barbarian invasions from the north. The stone wall was about six miles (10 km) long and was named Hexamilion ("six-miles").

Corinth declined from the 6th century on, and may even have fallen to barbarian invaders in the early 7th century. The main settlement moved from the lower city to the Acrocorinth. Despite its becoming the capital of the theme of Hellas and, after c. 800, of the theme of the Peloponnese, it was not until the 9th century that the city began to recover, reaching its apogee in the 11th and 12th centuries, when it was the site of a flourishing silk industry.[62]

In November 856, an earthquake in Corinth killed an estimated 45,000.[63]

The wealth of the city attracted the attention of the Italo-Normans under Roger of Sicily, who plundered it in 1147, carrying off many captives, most notably silk weavers. The city never fully recovered from the Norman sack.[62]

Principality of Achaea[edit]

Following the sack of Constantinople by the Fourth Crusade, a group of Crusaders under the French knights William of Champlitte and Geoffrey of Villehardouin carried out the conquest of the Peloponnese. The Corinthians resisted the Frankish conquest from their stronghold in Acrocorinth, under the command of Leo Sgouros, from 1205 until 1210. In 1208 Leo Sgouros killed himself by riding off the top of Acrocorinth, but resistance continued for two more years. Finally, in 1210 the fortress fell to the Crusaders, and Corinth became a full part of the Principality of Achaea, governed by the Villehardouins from their capital in Andravida in Elis. Corinth was the last significant town of Achaea on its northern borders with another crusader state, the Duchy of Athens. The Ottomans captured the city in 1395. The Byzantines of the Despotate of the Morea recaptured it in 1403, and the Despot Theodore II Palaiologos, restored the Hexamilion wall across the Isthmus of Corinth in 1415.

Ottoman rule[edit]

In 1458, five years after the final Fall of Constantinople, the Turks of the Ottoman Empire conquered the city and its mighty castle. The Ottomans renamed it Gördes and made it a sanjak (district) centre within the Rumelia Eyalet. The Venetians captured the city in 1687 during the Morean War, and it remained under Venetian control until the Ottomans retook the city in 1715. Corinth was the capital of the Mora Eyalet in 1715–1731 and then again a sanjak capital until 1821.

Independence[edit]

Corinth with Acrocorinth by Carl Anton Joseph Rottmann, 1847

During the Greek War of Independence, 1821–1830 the city was contested by the Ottoman forces. At that time, the Christian Albanian tribes living to the north of the Isthmus of Corinth attacked the acropolis of the city. They were around 2000 musketeers against the Ottoman troops.[64] The city was officially liberated in 1832 after the Treaty of London. In 1833, the site was considered among the candidates for the new capital city of the recently founded Kingdom of Greece, due to its historical significance and strategic position. Nafplio was chosen initially, then Athens.

Modern Corinth[edit]

Main article: Corinth

In 1858, the village surrounding the ruins of Ancient Corinth was destroyed by an earthquake, leading to the establishment of New Corinth 3 km (1.9 mi) NE of the ancient city.

Ancient city and its environs[edit]

Acrocorinth, the acropolis[edit]

Main article: Acrocorinth

Acrocorinthis, the acropolis of ancient Corinth, is a monolithic rock that was continuously occupied from archaic times to the early 19th century. The city's archaic acropolis, already an easily defensible position due to its geomorphology, was further heavily fortified during the Byzantine Empire as it became the seat of the strategos of the Thema of Hellas. Later it was a fortress of the Franks after the Fourth Crusade, the Venetians and the Ottoman Turks. With its secure water supply, Acrocorinth's fortress was used as the last line of defense in southern Greece because it commanded the isthmus of Corinth, repelling foes from entry into the Peloponnesian peninsula. Three circuit walls formed the man-made defense of the hill. The highest peak on the site was home to a temple to Aphrodite which was Christianized as a church, and then became a mosque.[65] The American School began excavations on it in 1929. Currently, Acrocorinth is one of the most important medieval castle sites of Greece.

Two ports: Lechaeum and Cenchreae[edit]

Corinth had two harbours: Lechaeum on the Corinthian Gulf and Cenchreae on the Saronic Gulf. Lechaeum was the principal port, connected to the city with a set of long walls of about 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) length, and was the main trading station for Italy and Sicily, where there were many Corinthian colonies, while Cenchreae served the commerce with the Eastern Mediterranean. Ships could be transported between the two harbours by means of the diolkos constructed by the tyrant Periander.

Important monuments[edit]

Acrocorinth Sanctuary of Demeter and Kore

Asklepieion of Corinth [fi]

Basilica Julia (Corinth) [fi]

Bema (Ancient Corinth) (later Church of Apostle Paul)

Fountain of Glauke [fi]

Peirene

Roman Odeion at Corinth [fi]

Sacred Spring of Corinth

South Stoa [fi]

Temple E at Corinth [fi]

Temple of Apollo (Corinth) [fi]

Notable people[edit]

Ancient Greece[edit]

Achaicus (1st century AD), Christian

Adrian of Corinth (3rd century AD), Christian saint and martyr

Archias (8th century BC), founder of Syracuse

Desmon (8th century BC), athlete

Dinarchus (4th century BC), orator and logographer

Diocles (8th century BC), athlete

Diogenes of Sinope, 4th century BC, one of the world's best known cynics

Eumelus (8th century BC), poet

Euphranor (4th century BC), sculptor and painter

Periander (7th century BC), listed as one of the Seven Sages of Greece

Quadratus (4th century AD), Christian saint and martyr

Timoleon (4th century BC), statesman and general

Xeniades (5th century BC), philosopher

Xenophon (5th century BC), athlete

Medieval[edit]

Cyriacus the Anchorite (5th century), Christian saint

William of Moerbeke (13th century), first translator of Aristotle's works into Latin

In literature[edit]

Alcmaeon in Corinth, a play by Greek dramatist Euripides, premiered in 405 BC

The Queen of Corinth, a play by English dramatist John Fletcher, published in 1647

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Coordinates: 37°56′19″N 22°55′38″E / 37.93861°N 22.92722°E / 37.93861; 22.92722

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Modern city in Greece

This article is about the modern city of Corinth. For the ancient city, see Ancient Corinth. For other uses, see Corinth (disambiguation).

This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.Find sources: "Corinth" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (May 2010) (Learn how and when to remove this template message)

Municipal unit in GreeceCorinth

ΚόρινθοςMunicipal unitClockwise from top left: Corinth Courthouse, Statue of Archbishop Damaskinos of Athens in front of the Courthouse, the walled gates of Acrocorinth, Temple of Apollo, Ethnikis Antistaseos, the main market road, Statue of Pegasus, Isthmus of Corinth

SealCorinthLocation within the regional unit Coordinates: 37°56′19″N 22°55′38″E / 37.93861°N 22.92722°E / 37.93861; 22.92722CountryGreeceAdministrative regionPeloponneseRegional unitCorinthiaMunicipalityCorinthArea • Municipal unit102.19 km2 (39.46 sq mi)Highest elevation10 m (30 ft)Lowest elevation0 m (0 ft)Population (2011)[1] • Municipal unit38,132 • Municipal unit density370/km2 (970/sq mi)DemonymCorinthianTime zoneUTC+2 (EET) • Summer (DST)UTC+3 (EEST)Postal code20100Area code(s)(+30) 27410Vehicle registrationKPWebsitehttps://korinthos.gr/

Corinth (/ˈkɒrɪnθ/ KORR-inth; Greek: Κόρινθος, romanized: Kórinthos, Modern Greek pronunciation: [ˈkorinθos]) is the successor to an ancient city, and is a former municipality in Corinthia, Peloponnese, which is located in south-central Greece. Since the 2011 local government reform, it has been part of the municipality of Corinth, of which it is the seat and a municipal unit.[2] It is the capital of Corinthia.

It was founded as Nea Korinthos (Νέα Κόρινθος), or New Corinth, in 1858 after an earthquake destroyed the existing settlement of Corinth, which had developed in and around the site of ancient Corinth.

History[edit]

Further information: Ancient Corinth

Corinth derives its name from Ancient Corinth, a city-state of antiquity. The site was occupied from before 3000 BC.

Ancient Greece[edit]

Historical references begin with the early 8th century BC, when Corinth began to develop as a commercial center. Between the 8th and 7th centuries, the Bacchiad family ruled Corinth. Cypselus overthrew the Bacchiad family, and between 657 and 550 BC, he and his son Periander ruled Corinth as the Tyrants.

In about 550 BC, an oligarchical government seized power. This government allied with Sparta within the Peloponnesian League, and Corinth participated in the Persian Wars and Peloponnesian War as an ally of Sparta. After Sparta's victory in the Peloponnesian war, the two allies fell out with one another, and Corinth pursued an independent policy in the various wars of the early 4th century BC. After the Macedonian unification of Greece, the Acrocorinth was the seat of a Macedonian garrison until 243 BC, when the city joined the Achaean League.

Ancient Rome[edit]

Nearly a century later, in 146 BC, Corinth was captured and was completely destroyed by the Roman army.

The Roman sack of Corinth in 146 BC (Thomas Allom, 1870)

As a newly rebuilt Roman colony in 44 BC, Corinth flourished and became the administrative capital of the Roman province of Achaea.[3]

Medieval times[edit]

An important earthquake touched Corinth and its region in 856, causing around 45000 deaths.[4]

Modern era[edit]

In 1858, the old city, now known as Ancient Corinth (Αρχαία Κόρινθος, Archaia Korinthos), located three kilometres (two miles) southwest of the modern city, was totally destroyed by a magnitude 6.5 earthquake. New Corinth (Nea Korinthos) was then built to the north-east of it, on the coast of the Gulf of Corinth. In 1928, a magnitude 6.3 earthquake devastated the new city, which was then rebuilt on the same site.[5] In 1933, there was a great fire, and the new city was rebuilt again.

During the German occupation in World War II, the Germans operated a Dulag transit camp for British, Australian, New Zealander and Serbian prisoners of war and a forced labour camp in the town.[6][7]

Geography[edit]

Located about 78 kilometres (48 mi) west of Athens, Corinth is surrounded by the coastal townlets of (clockwise) Lechaio, Isthmia, Kechries, and the inland townlets of Examilia and the archaeological site and village of ancient Corinth. Natural features around the city include the narrow coastal plain of Vocha, the Corinthian Gulf, the Isthmus of Corinth cut by its canal, the Saronic Gulf, the Oneia Mountains, and the monolithic rock of Acrocorinth, where the medieval acropolis was built.

Climate[edit]

According to the nearby weather station of Velo, operated by the Hellenic National Meteorological Service, Corinth has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification: Csa), with hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. The hottest month is July with an average temperature of 28.7 °C (83.7 °F) while the coldest month is January with an average temperature of 9.1 °C (48.4 °F). Corinth receives about 463 mm of rainfall per year and has an average annual temperature of 18.1 °C (64.6 °F).

Climate data for Velo, Corinth (1988–2010)

Month

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Year

Mean daily maximum °C (°F)

13.4(56.1)

13.9(57.0)

16.5(61.7)

20.3(68.5)

25.7(78.3)

30.7(87.3)

33.2(91.8)

32.9(91.2)

28.4(83.1)

23.6(74.5)

18.5(65.3)

14.4(57.9)

22.6(72.7)

Daily mean °C (°F)

9.1(48.4)

9.4(48.9)

11.9(53.4)

15.7(60.3)

21.1(70.0)

26.1(79.0)

28.7(83.7)

28.1(82.6)

23.4(74.1)

18.8(65.8)

13.8(56.8)

10.5(50.9)

18.1(64.5)

Mean daily minimum °C (°F)

5.3(41.5)

5.0(41.0)

6.5(43.7)

9.0(48.2)

12.9(55.2)

16.8(62.2)

19.5(67.1)

19.8(67.6)

16.9(62.4)

13.8(56.8)

9.9(49.8)

6.9(44.4)

11.9(53.3)

Average precipitation mm (inches)

72.0(2.83)

50.9(2.00)

53.7(2.11)

28.7(1.13)

22.3(0.88)

6.4(0.25)

5.0(0.20)

11.9(0.47)

19.4(0.76)

40.8(1.61)

73.5(2.89)

78.6(3.09)

463.2(18.22)

Source: HNMS[8]

Demographics[edit]

Corinth census figuresYearPop.±%1991 28,071— 2001 30,434+8.4%2011 30,176−0.8%[9]

The Municipality of Corinth (Δήμος Κορινθίων) had a population of 58,192 according to the 2011 census, the second most populous municipality in the Peloponnese Region after Kalamata.[1] The municipal unit of Corinth had 38,132 inhabitants, of which Corinth itself had 30,176 inhabitants, placing it in third place behind Kalamata and Tripoli among the cities of the Peloponnese Region.[1]

Corinth in 1882

The municipal unit of Corinth (Δημοτική ενότητα Κορινθίων) includes apart from Corinth proper the town of Archaia Korinthos (2,198 inhabitants in 2011), the town of Examilia (2,905 inhabitants), and the smaller settlements of Xylokeriza (1,316 inhabitants) and Solomos (817 inhabitants).[1] The municipal unit has an area of 102.187 km2.[10]

Economy[edit]

Industry[edit]

Corinth is a major industrial hub at a national level. The Corinth Refinery is one of the largest oil refining industrial complexes in Europe. Ceramic tiles, copper cables, gums, gypsum, leather, marble, meat products, medical equipment, mineral water and beverages, petroleum products, and salt are produced nearby. As of 2005[update], a period of Economic changes commenced as a large pipework complex, a textile factory and a meat packing facility diminished their operations.

View of the Gulf of Corinth and modern Corinth from the Castle of Acrocorinth

Transport[edit]

The rail road bridge over the Isthmus of Corinth

Roads[edit]

Corinth is a major road hub. The A7 toll motorway for Tripoli and Kalamata, (and Sparta via A71 toll), branches off the A8/European route E94 toll motorway from Athens at Corinth. Corinth is the main entry point to the Peloponnesian peninsula, the southernmost area of continental Greece.

Bus[edit]

KTEL Korinthias[11] provides intercity bus service in the peninsula and to Athens via the Isthmos station southeast of the city center.[12] Local bus service is also available.

Railways[edit]

The metre gauge railway from Athens and Pireaeus reached Corinth in 1884. This station closed to regular public transport in 2007. In 2005, two years prior, the city was connected to the Athens Suburban Railway, following the completion of the new Corinth railway station. The journey time from Athens to Corinth is about 55 minutes. The train station is 5 minutes by car from the city centre and parking is available for free.

Port[edit]

The port of Corinth, located north of the city centre and close to the northwest entrance of the Corinth Canal, at 37 56.0’ N / 22 56.0’ E, serves the local needs of industry and agriculture. It is mainly a cargo exporting facility.

It is an artificial harbour (depth approximately 9 m (30 ft), protected by a concrete mole (length approximately 930 metres, width 100 metres, mole surface 93,000 m2). A new pier finished in the late 1980s doubled the capacity of the port. The reinforced mole protects anchored vessels from strong northern winds.

Within the port operates a customs office facility and a Hellenic Coast Guard post. Sea traffic is limited to trade in the export of local produce, mainly citrus fruits, grapes, marble, aggregates and some domestic imports. The port operates as a contingency facility for general cargo ships, bulk carriers and ROROs, in case of strikes at Piraeus port.

Ferries[edit]

There was formerly a ferry link to Catania, Sicily and Genoa in Italy.

Canal[edit]

Main article: Corinth Canal

View of the Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal, carrying ship traffic between the western Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea, is about 4 km (2.5 mi) east of the city, cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth that connects the Peloponnesian peninsula to the Greek mainland, thus effectively making the former an island. The builders dug the canal through the Isthmus at sea level; no locks are employed. It is 6.4 km (4.0 mi) in length and only 21.3 metres (70 ft) wide at its base, making it impassable for most modern ships. It now has little economic importance.

The canal was mooted in classical times and an abortive effort was made to build it in the 1st century AD. Julius Caesar and Caligula both considered digging the canal but died before starting the construction.[13] The emperor Nero was the first to attempt to construct the canal. The Roman workforce responsible for the initial digging consisted of 6,000 Jewish prisoners of war. Modern construction started in 1882, after Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire, but was hampered by geological and financial problems that bankrupted the original builders. It was completed in 1893, but due to the canal's narrowness, navigational problems and periodic closures to repair landslips from its steep walls, it failed to attract the level of traffic anticipated by its operators. It is now used mainly for tourist traffic.

Sport[edit]

The city's association football team is Korinthos F.C. (Π.Α.E. Κόρινθος), established in 1999 after the merger of Pankorinthian Football Club (Παγκορινθιακός) and Corinth Football Club (Κόρινθος). During the 2006–2007 season, the team played in the Greek Fourth Division's Regional Group 7. The team went undefeated that season and it earned the top spot.[14] This granted the team a promotion to the Gamma Ethnikí (Third Division) for the 2007–2008 season. For the 2008–2009 season, Korinthos F.C. competed in the Gamma Ethniki (Third Division) southern grouping.

Twin towns/sister cities[edit]

See also: List of twin towns and sister cities in Greece

Corinth is twinned with:

Syracuse, Sicily[15]

Jagodina, Serbia

Notable people[edit]

Anastasios Bakasetas (1993–), Greek footballer

Evangelos Ikonomou (1987–), Greek footballer

George Kollias (1977–), drummer for US technical death metal band Nile.

Georgios Leonardopoulos, army officer

Macarius (1731–1805), Metropolitan bishop of Corinth

Ioannis Papadiamantopoulos (1766–1826), revolutionary leader during the Greek War of Independence.

Irene Papas (1929–2022), Greek actress

Costas Soukoulis (1951–), Professor of Physics at Iowa State University

Konstantinos Triantafyllopoulos (1993–) Greek footballer

Panagis Tsaldaris (1868–1936), Greek politician and prime minister of Greece

Panagiotis Tzanavaras (1964–), Greek footballer and football manager

Nikolaos Zafeiriou (1871–1947), Greek artillery officer

Other locations named after Corinth[edit]

Further information: List of locations named after Corinth, Greece

Due to its ancient history and the presence of St. Paul the Apostle in Corinth some locations all over the world have been named Corinth.

Gallery[edit]

Pegasus Square in New Corinth

View of the Central Square of the city

Aerial photograph of the Isthmus of Corinth

Corinth | Ancient City, Map, & Ruins | Britannica

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Corinth

Contents

Definition

by Mark Cartwright

published on 02 September 2009

Available in other languages: Croatian, French, Portuguese, Spanish

Temple of Apollo, CorinthMark Cartwright (CC BY-NC-SA)

Corinth was a Greek, Hellenistic and Roman city located on the isthmus which connects mainland Greece with the Peloponnese. Surrounded by fertile plains and blessed with natural springs, ancient Corinth was a centre of trade, had a naval fleet and participated in various Greek wars.

In the Roman period, Corinth was a major colony and for over a millennium, it was rarely out of the limelight. The city was famously visited by the Apostle Paul c. 51 CE. Today, the ancient city lies in ruins but there still stands an impressive temple dedicated to Apollo.

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Corinth in Mythology

Not being a major Mycenaean centre, Corinth lacks the mythological heritage of other Greek city-states. Nevertheless, the mythical founder of the city was believed to have been King Sisyphus, famed for his punishment in Hades where he was made to forever roll a large boulder up a hill. Sisyphus was succeeded by his son Glaucus and his grandson Bellerophon, whose winged-horse Pegasus became a symbol of the city and a feature of Corinthian coins. Corinth is also the setting for several other episodes from Greek mythology such as Theseus' hunt for the wild boar, Jason settled there with Medea after his adventures looking for the Golden Fleece, and there is the myth of Arion - the real-life and gifted kithara player and resident of Corinth - who was rescued by dolphins after being abducted by pirates.

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Historical Overview

First inhabited in the Neolithic period (c. 5000 BCE), the site became more densely populated from the 10th century BCE. The historical founders of the city were the aristocratic descendants of King Bacchis, the Bacchiadae, in c. 750 BCE. These replaced the long line of kings which stretched back in time before historical records. The Bacchiadae ruled as a body of 200 until in c. 657 BCE the popular tyrant Cypselus took control of the city, to be succeeded by his son Periander (re. c. 627-587 BCE). Cypselus funded the building of a treasury at Delphi and founded colonies which included Ambracia, Anactorium, and Leucas. These added to the existing Corinthian colonies of Corcyra (Corfu) and Syracuse in Sicily which had been founded in 734 BCE (traditional date).

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Corinthian Vessel with ProtomeMary Harrsch (Photographed at the Getty Villa, Malibu) (CC BY-NC-SA)

From the 8th century BCE, the high quality of Corinthian pottery led to its export across Greece. Indeed, Corinthian pottery, with its innovative figure decoration, would dominate the Greek pottery market until the 6th century BCE when Attic black-figure pottery took over as the dominant style. Other significant exports were Corinthian stone and bronzewares. Corinth also became the hub of trade through the diolkos. This was a stone track with carved grooves for wheeled wagons which offered a land short-cut between the harbours of Lechaion on the Corinthian Gulf and Kenchreai on the Saronic Gulf and probably dates to the reign of Periander. In the Peloponnesian War the diolkos was even used to transport triremes from one sea to the other and it continued to be used until the 9th century CE. Although the idea for a canal across the isthmus was first considered in the 7th century BCE and various Roman Emperors from Julius Caesar to Hadrian began preliminary feasibility studies, it was Nero who actually began the project in 67 CE. However, on the emperor's death, the project was abandoned after three months, not to be resumed until 1881 CE.

From the early 6th century BCE, Corinth administered the Panhellenic games at nearby Isthmia, held every two years in the spring. These games were established in honour of Poseidon and were particularly famous for their horse and chariot races.

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An oligarchy, consisting of a council of 80, gained power in Corinth in c. 585 BCE. Concerned with local rival Argos, from c. 550 BCE Corinth became an ally of Sparta. Together, an expedition was launched against Polycrates of Samos in c. 525 BCE but was ultimately unsuccessful. During Cleomenes' reign though, the city became wary of the growing power of Sparta and opposed Spartan intervention in Athens. Corinth also fought in the Persian Wars against the invading forces of Xerxes which threatened the autonomy of all of Greece.

Corinth suffered badly in the First Peloponnesian War, for which it was responsible after attacking Megara. The Corinthians were also instrumental in causing the Second Peloponnesian War, when they felt their regional interests centred in Corcyra were threatened by Athens in 433 BCE. Once again though, the Corinthians, mainly as Sparta's naval ally, had a disastrous war. The city did, however, successfully defend its colony of Syracuse when it was attacked by Athenian forces. Disillusioned with Sparta's reluctance to completely destroy Athens after their victory in the war in 404 BCE and concerned over Spartan expansion in Greece and Asia Minor, Corinth formed an alliance in the 4th century with Argos, Boeotia, Thebes, and Athens to fight Sparta in the Corinthian Wars (395-386 BCE). The conflict was largely fought at sea and on Corinthian territory and was yet another costly endeavour for the citizens of Corinth.

The city was once more flourishing by the 1st century CE and became an important administrative and trade centre.

One final conflict, this time against the invading Philip II of Macedon, was once again lost at Chaeronea in 338 BCE. Corinth did become the seat of the Corinthian League, but an unfortunate consequence of this dubious honour was a Macedonian garrison being stationed on the Acrocorinth acropolis overlooking the city. A succession of Hellenistic kings took control of the city - starting with Ptolemy I and ending with Aratus in 243 BCE, when Corinth joined the Achaean League. Worse was to follow, however, when the Roman commander Lucius Mummius sacked the city in 146 BCE.

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A brighter period returned to the city when Julius Caesar founded his colony at the site in 44 BCE and organised the agricultural land into organised plots (centuriation) for distribution to Roman settlers. The city was once more flourishing by the 1st century CE and became an important administrative and trade centre. In addition, following St. Paul's visit between 51 and 52 CE, Corinth became the centre of early Christianity in Greece. In a public hearing, the saint had to defend himself against accusations from the city's Hebrews that his preaching undermined the Mosiac Law. The pro-consul Lucius Julius Gallio judged that Paul had not broken any Roman Law and so was permitted to continue his teachings. From the 3rd century CE the city began to decline and the Germanic Heruli and Alaric tribes attacked the city in 267 CE and 396 CE respectively.

Ruined Shop, Corinth AgoraMark Cartwright (CC BY-NC-SA)

The Archaeological Site

In ancient Corinth there were cults to Aphrodite (protectress of the city), Apollo, Demeter Thesmophoros, Hera, Poseidon, and Helios and various buildings to cult heroes, the founders of the city. In addition, there were several sacred springs, the most famous being Peirene. Unfortunately, the destruction in 146 BCE obliterated much of this religious past. In Roman Corinth, Aphrodite, Poseidon, and Demeter did continue to be worshipped along with the Roman gods.

The site today, first excavated in 1892 CE by the Greek Archaeological Service, is dominated by the Doric peripteral Temple of Apollo (c. 550-530 BCE), originally with 6 columns on the façades and fifteen on the long sides. A particular feature of the temple is the use of monolithic columns rather than the more commonly used column drums. Seven columns remain standing today.

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The majority of the other surviving buildings date from the 1st century CE in the Roman era and include a large forum, a temple to Octavia, baths, the Bema where St. Paul addressed the Corinthians, the Asklepeion temple to Asclepius, and a centre of healing, fountains - including the monumental Peirine fountain complex (2nd century CE) - a propylaea, theatre, odeion, gymnasium, and stoas. There are also the remains of three basilicas.

Archaeological finds at the site include many fine mosaics - notably the Dionysos mosaic - Greek and Roman sculpture - including an impressive number of busts of Roman rulers - and outstanding examples of all the styles of Greek pottery, the first source of the city's fame in the ancient world.

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Written by Jane Foster and Carri Wilbanks Updated Dec 28, 2023We may earn a commission from affiliate links ()

Ancient meets modern in Corinth (Korinthos), a town that is considered the gateway to the Peloponnese Peninsula. During Roman times, it was one of the largest and wealthiest city-states in Greece, with two major ports: one on the Corinthian Gulf and one on the Saronic Gulf.

Today, the site where Ancient Corinth once stood has been excavated by archaeologists from the American School in Athens since 1896. The extensive remains are dominated by famous places to visit, like the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. Behind the site rises the hill of Acrocorinth (Akrokorinthos), which was fortified during the Middle Ages.

The modern town of Corinth lies seven kilometers northeast of the ancient city and only an hour's drive west of Athens, to which it is connected by a regular bus service. The town is also famous for the Corinth Canal, which gives ships a route through the isthmus of Corinth. There are many rewarding adventures in the Corinth area, including an adrenaline-rushing bungee jump. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Corinth.

On This Page:

1. Corinth Canal

2. Ancient Corinth

3. Temple of Apollo

4. Corinth Archaeological Museum

5. Acrocorinth

6. Loutraki

7. Environment Museum of Stymphalia

8. Zulu Bungy Jump

9. Modern Corinth

10. Saint Patapios Monastery

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Corinth

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Corinth

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Corinth

1. Corinth Canal

Corinth CanalThe idea of building a canal through the Isthmus of Corinth (which connects the Peloponnese to the rest of Greece) was conceived by the tyrant Periander in the sixth century BCE to link the Ionian and Aegean Seas. Its completion, however, didn't come about until the late 1800s after modern Greece gained independence.

Today, the Corinth Canal, which is four kilometers east of modern Corinth, is the city's top attraction. Creating it between 1882 and 1893 involved an excavation up to 80 meters in depth to create a canal that is 6.3 kilometers long, 23 meters wide, and eight meters deep and can accommodate vessels of up to 10,000 tons.

The best view of the canal is from the bridge, which carries the road over it. One of the most interesting features, however, is the submersible bridge at the north-west end. It can be sunk below the surface, allowing smaller ships and sailing boats to pass through after paying a hefty tariff. However, it is too narrow for larger ships.

2. Ancient Corinth

Ancient CorinthAncient Corinth is an important archaeological site, which has revealed many great finds. Once one of the most powerful cities of the Classical world, it came under Roman rule in 146 BCE. It is here that St. Paul preached to the people of Corinth in 51-52 CE, and his experience later inspired him to write the New Testament books of the First Corinthians and Second Corinthians, among the most quoted books of the Bible.

Today, amid the archaeological excavations, you can see the ruins of various buildings including temples, a forum, baths, and a basilica.

3. Temple of Apollo

Temple of ApolloThe most important monument in Ancient Corinth, the imposing Doric Temple of Apollo lies on a low hill and dominates the site. The temple was built around 540 BCE, on the site of an earlier seventh-century-BCE temple.

Today, only seven monolithic limestone columns remain, but originally there would have been six along the front and back of the temple, and fifteen down each side. In the first century CE, the Romans moved the main entrance into the temple to the west (formerly it had been on the east), and they built stoas (colonnaded walkways) to each side of the temple.

4. Corinth Archaeological Museum

Mosaic Floor of a Roman Villa in CorinthThis small museum provides a comprehensive view of finds from the Ancient Corinth archaeological site. Built in 1931-32 and extended in the 1950s, the museum has three display rooms and a large courtyard. The main attractions are Neolithic finds, typical Corinthian pottery and ceramics, mosaic floors, and numerous headless marble statues (the ancients would simply remove the head of a deceased leader from a statue, and replace it with the new leader's head). Exhibits are labeled in both Greek and English.

The entrance ticket to the site is also valid for the museum.

5. Acrocorinth

AcrocorinthAcrocorinth (Akrokórinthos) lies 3.5 kilometers south of Ancient Corinth. The ascent to the top of this impressive fortified hilltop (575 meters) is made easier by a road, which climbs to a point near the lowest gate on the west side. Acrocorinth was fortified in ancient times, and its defenses were maintained and developed during the Byzantine, Frankish, Turkish, and Venetian periods, so that its walls now measure almost two kilometers in length.

Within the fortress, a path leads to the highest point, to the former Temple of Aphrodite, which was converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Turks in the 16th century. From here, there are fine views of the Isthmus and the hills of the Peloponnese.

6. Loutraki

LoutrakiOverlooking the Gulf of Corinth, six kilometers northeast of Corinth, Loutráki is a popular seaside resort, which is wonderful to spend an afternoon wandering around, especially if you're in need of some heat therapy. Here, you'll find natural thermal springs at the Loutraki Spa, where you can spend some time soaking and sipping the healing water that is recommended for disorders of the urinary tract, kidney stones, gallstones, and gout.

The old town of Loutraki was destroyed by an earthquake in 1928, and today it consists mainly of concrete hotels erected during the second half of the 20th century.

7. Environment Museum of Stymphalia

Lake StymphaliaOne of the most popular tourist attractions in Corinth is a museum dedicated to the region's eco-system, mainly Lake Stymphalia, where, according to mythology, Hercules confronted and defeated the Stymphalian birds with his arrow. The lake itself is a wonderfully relaxing place to visit and wander or run along the path around it.

The museum, back in town, has two permanent exhibits. The first addresses environmental concerns in the region, and the second explores the ways in which the environment has influenced development in the lake's basin.

8. Zulu Bungy Jump

Bungee jumping over the Corinth CanalWhen it comes to top things to do in Corinth, adrenaline junkies will definitely want to check out the Zulu Bungy Jump, founded in 2003 over the Corinth Canal. You'll jump from 70 meters high between the canal's two walls, which are 21 meters apart. It offers a totally different perspective of the canal (if you're not too freaked out after the plunge to focus on what you're seeing).

This is actually a great place to get over your fear of bungee jumping because the staff members are super warm and supportive and help you overcome your terror at taking the initial leap.

Official site: https://zulubungy.com/

9. Modern Corinth

Pegasus statue in Modern CorinthAfter a powerful earthquake took out Corinth's old town in 1858, it was rebuilt with a new look and locale on the coast overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, seven kilometers northeast of the ancient city. However, following another earthquake in 1928 and then a great fire in 1933, the new town went through even more building incarnations.

Today, modern Corinth consists mainly of contemporary concrete buildings, and everyday life centers on the cafés lining the square in front of the port. For tourists arriving from Athens and the rest of mainland Greece, Corinth is considered the gateway to the Peloponnese peninsula.

10. Saint Patapios Monastery

Saint Patapios MonasteryLocated about 1,500 feet above the town of Loutraki on a steep mountain slope not far from Corinth, Saint Patapios Monastery is home to about 40 nuns, and it's open to visitors. To reach the monastery, you'll need to climb some 144 steps, but the views from the top are quite stunning. You can see the Corinth Canal, the gulfs of Corinth and Saronic, as well as Lake Vouliagmeni.

The complex of buildings here date back to the 12th century, when they were created as a hermitage. Today's monastery was founded in 1952 and is said to contain a number of holy relics pertaining to Saint Patapios, who was born in Egypt in the 4th-century.

Address: 203 00 Loutraki, Greece

Official site: https://www.monastiria.gr/holy-monastery-of-saint-patapios-loutraki-corinth

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Corinth

When it comes to staying in Corinth, options are relatively limited. There are no luxury hotels in town; the highest ranked hotel is a three-star property. If you want true luxury, you can opt to stay in Athens and visit Corinth on a day trip. Here are our favorite hotels for sightseeing in the Corinth area. They are all located in and around the modern city.

Luxury & Mid-Range Hotels:

One of the more luxurious properties is the three-star La Terra Nostra, which is located just outside the city center on orange-tree filled grounds, with views of the mountains and sea. The property offers accommodations in apartments and also has a lovely garden area with a swimming pool. It is not within walking distance of anything, however, so you'll need a car. For a more central location, try the Apollon Filoxenia Hotel, which offers simple but modern and clean accommodation within walking distance of the city's pedestrian area. It is also very good value. The property has a restaurant on-site and is also kid-friendly. Another option is the three-star Ephira Hotel, which is also in the city center, although it can feel a bit stale and dated. There is no on-site restaurant, but there are a number of places to eat within a short walk. Ask the front desk for recommendations. Car hire can also be arranged here.Budget Hotels:

For clean and tidy rooms that are excellent value try Pegasus Rooms, which is in a central location. The breakfasts here are excellent and served on the rooftop terrace with views. There is also secure parking for guests, and you can dine at the owner's restaurant on the main square just a few minutes' walk away. Even less expensive is the Acropolis Hotel, which offers clean but somewhat dated rooms. Breakfast is included in the rates. The hotel is centrally located for walkers. It also has a 24-hour front desk that is happy to assist with any questions or issues. Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Corinth

Day Trip to Corinth from Athens: At just an hour's drive from Athens, it is easy to visit Corinth on a half-day tour from Athens. This morning tour includes 90 minutes exploring ancient Corinth's ruins with an English-speaking guide, a scenic drive along the coast to the Corinth Canal, and a visit to the Museum of Ancient Corinth, among other activities. Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Corinth

What is the significance of Corinth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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What is the significance of Corinth in the Bible?

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Corinth was significant in the ancient Roman world because of its geography, its wealth, and its regional influence. In the Bible, Corinth is significant because of its connection with the apostle Paul’s missionary work.

Corinth was the capital of the Roman province of Achaia and was situated on the Isthmus of Corinth, and about 40 miles west of Athens in Greece. It was a large city that controlled two harbors: Cenchreae on the eastern side of the isthmus, and Lechaeumon on the western side. Providing a natural refuge for the city was the Acrocorinthus, a large monolithic rock rising about 1,800 feet above the surrounding plain. Corinth had a large population of both Jewish and Gentile residents.

Paul spent about eighteen months in Corinth during his second missionary journey (Acts 18). Both Jews and Gentiles believed Paul’s message about Jesus, and these new believers became the Corinthian church. The New Testament epistles of 1 and 2 Corinthians are letters Paul later wrote to these believers. Notably, Corinth is also the place where Paul met Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers who became ministry coworkers (Acts 18:2, 18–19, 24–28).

Paul first traveled to Corinth after spending time preaching in Athens (see Acts 17:16—18:1). Upon arriving in Corinth, Paul met Aquila and Priscilla, who were tentmakers like the apostle, so Paul lived and worked with them (Acts 18:2–3). As was his custom, Paul reasoned in the Jewish synagogue every Sabbath, sharing the truth about Jesus, for as long as the Jews and God-following Gentiles there would endure it (Acts 18:4–5). When opposition and abuse arose, Paul took the message of the gospel more directly to the Gentiles (Acts 18:6). Utilizing the house of Titius Justus, a Gentile who worshiped God and lived next door to the synagogue, Paul continued to share the message of the gospel. Many Corinthians placed their faith in Christ, including the synagogue ruler and his family (Acts 18:7–8).

In Corinth the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision, telling him not to fear but to keep speaking. God promised, “For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city” (Acts 18:10). Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching the word of God and successfully establishing a group of believers there. Paul returned to visit the Corinthians at least twice (2 Corinthians 13:1). He also wrote them several letters to address problems in the church. Two of those letters are in our Bibles today, known as 1 and 2 Corinthians. At least one letter Paul wrote to them before 1 Corinthians has been lost to history (see 1 Corinthians 5:9), and there was possibly another letter he wrote between 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians (see 2 Corinthians 7:8). We have in our Bibles the words that God intended for us. These other letters were important for the church at Corinth in that time, but are evidently not necessary for us today.

In 1 and 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses multiple issues. These range from division in the church, to immorality in the church, to freedom concerning foods, to voluntary restriction of rights, to spiritual gifts, to generosity, to explaining the glorious depth and beauty of the truth of the gospel, and more. Paul also defended his ministry in Corinth and his calling as an apostle because false teachers were leading the Corinthians astray. The words in these letters are theologically rich and of practical use in the church and our lives today.

First Corinthians addresses several issues of sexuality. There was a large following of the cult of Aphrodite among the Gentiles in Corinth—her temple was atop the Acrocorinthus, and her worship involved temple prostitution. In fact, the city had so many prostitutes that well-known Greeks, including Plato, openly referred to prostitutes as “Corinthians.” Although many natives of Corinth placed faith in Jesus, many were still influenced by their immoral surroundings, which promoted sexual immorality. In 1 Corinthians, Paul mentions the problem of sexual sin in the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 5:1–2). God ultimately used this problem to bring about Paul’s inspired writing on sexual purity, marriage, and singleness (1 Corinthians 6—7). These inspired teachings have continued to instruct and guide the church regarding sexual issues. They are certainly beneficial to us in our sex-obsessed world.

Corinth was home to many people with diverse backgrounds, a characteristic reflected in the Corinthian church that contributed to some division and confusion. Previously legalistic Jews needed to hear about the freedom of the New Covenant in Christ; previously pagan Gentiles needed to be reminded that the gospel is not a license to sin. Both groups needed to learn to love the other and live at peace. Paul famously explains what true love is in 1 Corinthians 13. In our fractious world, this message of self-sacrificial love based in the person and work of Jesus Christ is equally important.

The city of Corinth was steeped in all the sins attendant upon a prosperous society, including idolatry and gross immorality, but the gospel still made a way through. We may fear our surrounding culture is too far away from God for people to hear His truth, but nothing is impossible for the Lord (Luke 1:37; Matthew 19:25–26). Paul gave the Corinthians a list of sinful behaviors that characterize those who will not enter God’s kingdom, then he declared, “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11). God changes lives! In fact, “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:17–18). Just as Paul was an ambassador of Christ to the Corinthians, we can be His ambassadors in our world, imploring people “on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:20–21).

For Further Study

The Roman Empire and the New Testament: An Essential Guide by Warren Carter

More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!

Book of 1 Corinthians - Bible Survey

Book of 2 Corinthians - Bible Survey

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Ruins of Apollo's Temple in Corinth, Greece.

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N.S. Gill

Ancient History and Latin Expert

M.A., Linguistics, University of Minnesota

B.A., Latin, University of Minnesota

N.S. Gill is a Latinist, writer, and teacher of ancient history and Latin. She has been featured by NPR and National Geographic for her ancient history expertise.

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Updated on February 23, 2019

Corinth is the name of an ancient Greek polis (city-state) and nearby isthmus that lent its name to a set of Panhellenic games, a war, and a style of architecture. In works attributed to Homer, you may find Corinth referred to as Ephyre.

Corinth in the Middle of Greece

That it is called 'isthmus' means it is a neck of land, but the Isthmus of Corinth serves as more of a Hellenic waist separating the upper, mainland part of Greece and the lower Peloponnesian parts. The city of Corinth was a rich, important, cosmopolitan, commercial area, having one harbor that allowed trade with Asia, and another that led to Italy. From the 6th century B.C., the Diolkos, a paved route up to six meters wide designed for a fast passage, led from the Gulf of Corinth on the west to the Saronic Gulf on the east.

" Corinth is called 'wealthy' because of its commerce, since it is situated on the Isthmus and is master of two harbours, of which the one leads straight to Asia, and the other to Italy; and it makes easy the exchange of merchandise from both countries that are so far distant from each other."

Strabo Geography 8.6

Passage From the Mainland to the Peloponnese

The land route from Attica into the Peloponnese passed through Corinth. A nine-kilometer section of rocks (the Sceironian rocks) along the land route from Athens made it treacherous—especially when brigands took advantage of the landscape—but there was also a sea route from the Piraeus past Salamis.

Corinth in Greek Mythology

According to Greek mythology, Sisyphus, a grandfather of Bellerophon—the Greek hero who rode Pegasus the winged horse—founded Corinth. (This may be a story invented by Eumelos, a poet of the Bacchiadae family.) This makes the city not one of the Dorian cities—like those in the Peloponnese—founded by the Heracleidae, but Aeolian). The Corinthians, however, claimed descent from Aletes, who was a descendant of Hercules from the Dorian invasion. Pausanias explains that at the time when the Heracleidae invaded the Peloponnese, Corinth was ruled by descendants of Sisyphus named Doeidas and Hyanthidas, who abdicated in favor of Aletes whose family kept the throne for five generations until the first of the Bacchiads, Bacchis., gained control

Theseus, Sinis, and Sisyphus are among the names from mythology associated with Corinth, as the second century A.D. geographer Pausanias says:

" [2.1.3] In the Corinthian territory is also the place called Cromyon from Cromus the son of Poseidon. Here they say that Phaea was bred; overcoming this sow was one of the traditional achievements of Theseus. Farther on the pine still grew by the shore at the time of my visit, and there was an altar of Melicertes. At this place, they say, the boy was brought ashore by a dolphin; Sisyphus found him lying and gave him burial on the Isthmus, establishing the Isthmian games in his honor."

...

"[2.1.4] At the beginning of the Isthmus is the place where the brigand Sinis used to take hold of pine trees and draw them down. All those whom he overcame in fight he used to tie to the trees, and then allow them to swing up again. Thereupon each of the pines used to drag to itself the bound man, and as the bond gave way in neither direction but was stretched equally in both, he was torn in two. This was the way in which Sinis himself was slain by Theseus."

Pausanias Description of Greece, translated by W.H.S. Jones; 1918

Pre-Historic and Legendary Corinth

Archaeological finds show that Corinth was inhabited in the Neolithic and early Helladic periods. Australian classicist and archaeologist Thomas James Dunbabin (1911-1955) says the nu-theta (nth) in the name Corinth shows it is a pre-Greek name. The oldest preserved building survives from the 6th century B.C. It is a temple, probably to Apollo. The earliest ruler's name is Bakkhis, who may have ruled in the ninth century. Cypselus overthrew Bakkhis' successors, the Bacchiads, c.657 B.C., after which Periander became the tyrant. He is credited with having created the Diolkos. In c. 585, an oligarchical council of 80 replaced the last tyrant. Corinth colonized Syracuse and Corcyra at about the same time it got rid of its kings.

" And the Bacchiadae, a rich and numerous and illustrious family, became tyrants of Corinth, and held their empire for nearly two hundred years, and without disturbance reaped the fruits of the commerce; and when Cypselus overthrew these, he himself became tyrant, and his house endured for three generations...."ibid.

Pausanias gives another account of this early, confusing, legendary period of Corinthian history:

" [2.4.4] Aletes himself and his descendants reigned for five generations to Bacchis, the son of Prumnis, and, named after him, the Bacchidae reigned for five more generations to Telestes, the son of Aristodemus. Telestes was killed in hate by Arieus and Perantas, and there were no more kings, but Prytanes (Presidents) taken from the Bacchidae and ruling for one year, until Cypselus, the son of Eetion, became tyrant and expelled the Bacchidae.11 Cypselus was a descendant of Melas, the son of Antasus. Melas from Gonussa above Sicyon joined the Dorians in the expedition against Corinth. When the god expressed disapproval Aletes at first ordered Melas to withdraw to other Greeks, but afterwards, mistaking the oracle, he received him as a settler. Such I found to be the history of the Corinthian kings."Pausanias, op.cit.

Classical Corinth

In the middle of the sixth century, Corinth allied with Spartan, but later opposed the Spartan King Cleomenes' political interventions in Athens. It was aggressive actions of Corinth against Megara that led to the Peloponnesian War. Although Athens and Corinth were at odds during this war, by the time of the Corinthian War (395-386 B.C.), Corinth had joined Argos, Boeotia, and Athens against Sparta.

Hellenistic and Roman Era Corinth

After the Greeks lost to Philip of Macedonia at Chaeronea, the Greeks signed terms Philip insisted on so he could turn his attention to Persia. They made oaths not to overthrow Philip or his successors, or one another, in exchange for local autonomy and were joined together in a federation that we today call the League of Corinth. Members of the Corinthian League were responsible for levies of troops (for use by Philip) depending on the size of the city.

Romans besieged Corinth during the second Macedonian War, but the city continued in Macedonian hands until the Romans decreed it independent and part of the Achaean confederacy after Rome defeated the Macedonians a Cynoscephalae. Rome kept a garrison in Corinth's Acrocorinth—the city's high spot and citadel.

Corinth failed to treat Rome with the respect it demanded. Strabo describes how Corinth provoked Rome:

" The Corinthians, when they were subject to Philip, not only sided with him in his quarrel with the Romans, but individually behaved so contemptuously towards the Romans that certain persons ventured to pour down filth upon the Roman ambassadors when passing by their house. For this and other offences, however, they soon paid the penalty, for a considerable army was sent thither...."

Roman consul Lucius Mummius destroyed Corinth in 146 B.C., looting it, killing the men, selling the children and women, and burning what remained.

" [2.1.2] Corinth is no longer inhabited by any of the old Corinthians, but by colonists sent out by the Romans. This change is due to the Achaean League. The Corinthians, being members of it, joined in the war against the Romans, which Critolaus, when appointed general of the Achaeans, brought about by persuading to revolt both the Achaeans and the majority of the Greeks outside the Peloponnesus. When the Romans won the war, they carried out a general disarmament of the Greeks and dismantled the walls of such cities as were fortified. Corinth was laid waste by Mummius, who at that time commanded the Romans in the field, and it is said that it was afterwards refounded by Caesar, who was the author of the present constitution of Rome. Carthage, too, they say, was refounded in his reign."Pausanias; op. cit.

By the time of the New Testament's St. Paul (author of Corinthians), Corinth was a booming Roman town, having been made a colony by Julius Caesar in 44 B.C.—Colonia Laus Iulia Corinthiensis. Rome rebuilt the city in Roman fashion, and settled it, mostly with freedmen, who grew prosperous within two generations. In the early 70s A.D., Emperor Vespasian established a second Roman colony at Corinth—Colonia Iulia Flavia Augusta Corinthiensis. It had an amphitheater, a circus, and other characteristic buildings and monuments. After the Roman conquest, the official language of Corinth was Latin until the time of Emperor Hadrian, when it became Greek.

Located by the Isthmus, Corinth was responsible for the Isthmian Games, second in importance to the Olympics and held every two years in the spring.

Also known as: Ephyra (old name)

Examples:

The highpoint or citadel of Corinth was called the Acrocorinth.

Thucydides 1.13 says Corinth was the first Greek city to build war galleys:

" The Corinthians are said to have been the first that changed the form of shipping into the nearest to that which is now in use, and at Corinth are reported to have been made the first galleys of all Greece."

Sources

"Corinth" Oxford Dictionary of the Classical World. Ed. John Roberts. Oxford University Press, 2007.

"A Roman Circus in Corinth," by David Gilman Romano; Hesperia: The Journal of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens Vol. 74, No. 4 (Oct. - Dec., 2005), pp. 585-611.

"Greek Diplomatic Tradition and the Corinthian League of Philip of Macedon," by S. Perlman; Historia: Zeitschrift fÃ¼r Alte Geschichte Bd. 34, H. 2 (2nd Qtr., 1985), pp. 153-174.

"The Corinth That Saint Paul Saw," by Jerome Murphy-O'Connor; The Biblical Archaeologist Vol. 47, No. 3 (Sep., 1984), pp. 147-159.

"The Early History of Corinth," by T. J. Dunbabin; The Journal of Hellenic Studies Vol. 68, (1948), pp. 59-69.

A Geographical and Historical Description of Ancient Greece, by John Anthony Cramer

"Corinth (Korinthos)." The Oxford Companion to Classical Literature (3 ed.) Edited by M. C. Howatson

"Corinth: Late Roman Horizonsmore," by Guy Sanders, from Hesperia 74 (2005), pp.243-297.

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Bible Map: Corinth

e Map: CorinthBible > Atlas > Corinth◄ Corinth ►AtlasCorinth and surrounding areaMaps Created using Biblemapper 3.0Additional data from OpenBible.infoOccurrencesActs 18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth.Acts 18:2 He found a certain Jew named Aquila, a man of Pontus by race, who had recently come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome. He came to them,Acts 18:5 But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.Acts 19:1 It happened that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having passed through the upper country, came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples.1 Corinthians 1:2 to the assembly of God which is at Corinth; those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ in every place, both theirs and ours:2 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the assembly of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in the whole of Achaia:2 Corinthians 1:23 But I call God for a witness to my soul, that I didn't come to Corinth to spare you.2 Timothy 4:20 Erastus remained at Corinth, but I left Trophimus at Miletus sick.EncyclopediaCORINTHkor'-inth (Korinthos, "ornament"): A celebrated city of the Peloponnesus, capital of Corinthia, which lay North of Argolis, and with the isthmus joined the peninsula to the mainland. Corinth had three good harbors (Lechaeum, on the Corinthian, and Cenchrea and Schoenus on the Saronic Gulf), and thus commanded the traffic of both the eastern and the western seas. The larger ships could not be hauled across the isthmus (Acts 27:6, 37); smaller vessels were taken over by means of a ship tramway with wooden rails. The Phoenicians, who settled here very early, left many traces of their civilization in the industrial arts, such as dyeing and weaving, as well as in their religion and mythology. The Corinthian cult of Aphrodite, of Melikertes (Melkart) and of Athene Phoenike are of Phoenician origin. Poseidon, too, and other sea deities were held in high esteem in the commercial city. Various arts were cultivated and the Corinthians, even in the earliest times, were famous for their cleverness, inventiveness and artistic sense, and they prided themselves on surpassing the other Greeks in the embellishment of their city and in the adornment of their temples. There were many celebrated painters in Corinth, and the city became famous for the Corinthian order of architecture: an order, which, by the way, though held in high esteem by the Romans, was very little used by the Greeks themselves. It was here, too, that the dithyramb (hymn to Dionysus) was first arranged artistically to be sung by a chorus; and the Isthmian games, held every two years, were celebrated just outside the city on the isthmus near the Saronic Gulf. But the commercial and materialistic spirit prevailed later. Not a single Corinthian distinguished himself in literature. Statesmen, however, there were in abundance: Periander, Phidon, Timoleon.Harbors are few on the Corinthian Gulf. Hence, no other city could wrest the commerce of these waters from Corinth. According to Thucydides, the first ships of war were built here in 664 B.C. In those early days Corinth held a leading position among the Greek cities; but in consequence of her great material prosperity she would not risk all as Athens did, and win eternal supremacy over men: she had too much to lose to jeopardize her material interests for principle, and she soon sank into the second class. But when Athens, Thebes, Sparta and Argos fell away, Corinth came to the front again as the wealthiest and most important city in Greece; and when it was destroyed by Mummius in 146 B.C., the treasures of art carried to Rome were as great as those of Athens. Delos became the commercial center for a time; but when Julius Caesar restored Corinth a century later (46 B.C.), it grew so rapidly that the Roman colony soon became again one of the most prominent centers in Greece. When Paul visited Corinth, he found it the metropolis of the Peloponnesus. Jews flocked to this center of trade (Acts 18:1-18 Romans 16:21 1 Corinthians 9:20), the natural site for a great mart, and flourishing under the lavish hand of the Caesars; and this is one reason why Paul remained there so long (Acts 18:11) instead of sojourning in the old seats of aristocracy, such as Argos, Sparta and Athens. He found a strong Jewish nucleus to begin with; and it was in direct communication with Ephesus. But earthquake, malaria, and the harsh Turkish rule finally swept everything away except seven columns of one old Doric temple, the only object above ground left today to mark the site of the ancient city of wealth and luxury and immorality-the city of vice paragraph excellence in the Roman world. Near the temple have been excavated the ruins of the famous fount of Peirene, so celebrated in Greek literature. Directly South of the city is the high rock (over 1,800 ft.) Acrocorinthus, which formed an impregnable fortress. Traces of the old ship-canal across the isthmus (attempted by Nero in 66-67 A.D.) were to be seen before excavations were begun for the present canal. At this time the city was thoroughly Roman. Hence, the many Latin names in the New Testament: Lucius, Tertius, Gaius, Erastus, Quartus (Romans 16:21-23), Crispus, Titus Justus (Acts 18:7, 8), Fortunatus, Achaicus (1 Corinthians 16:17). According to the testimony of Dio Chrysostomus, Corinth had become in the 2nd century of our era the richest city in Greece. Its monuments and public buildings and art treasures are described in detail by Pausanias.The church in Corinth consisted principally of non-Jews (1 Corinthians 12:2). Paul had no intention at first of making the city a base of operations (Acts 18:1; Acts 16:9, 10); for he wished to return to Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:17, 18). His plans were changed by a revelation (Acts 18:9, 10). The Lord commanded him to speak boldly, and he did so, remaining in the city eighteen months. Finding strong opposition in the synagogue he left the Jews and went to the Gentiles (Acts 18:6). Nevertheless, Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue and his household were believers and baptisms were numerous (Acts 18:8); but no Corinthians were baptized by Paul himself except Crispus, Gaius and some of the household of Stephanas (1 Corinthians 1:14, 16) "the firstfruits of Achaia" (1 Corinthians 16:15). One of these, Gaius, was Paul's host the next time he visited the city (Romans 16:23). Silas and Timothy, who had been left at Berea, came on to Corinth about 45 days after Paul's arrival. It was at this time that Paul wrote his first Epistle to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 3:6). During Gallio's administration the Jews accused Paul, but the proconsul refused to allow the case to be brought to trial. This decision must have been looked upon with favor by a large majority of the Corinthians, who had a great dislike for the Jews (Acts 18:17). Paul became acquainted also with Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:18, 26 Romans 16:3 2 Timothy 4:19), and later they accompanied him to Ephesus. Within a few years after Paul's first visit to Corinth the Christians had increased so rapidly that they made quite a large congregation, but it was composed mainly of the lower classes: they were neither `learned, influential, nor of noble birth' (1 Corinthians 1:26).Paul probably left Corinth to attend the celebration of the feast at Jerusalem (Acts 18:21). Little is known of the history of the church in Corinth after his departure. Apollos came from Ephesus with a letter of recommendation to the brethren in Achaia (Acts 18:27 2 Corinthians 3:1); and he exercised a powerful influence (Acts 18:27, 28 1 Corinthians 1:12); and Paul came down later from Macedonia. His first letter to the Corinthians was written from Ephesus. Both Titus and Timothy were sent to Corinth from Ephesus (2 Corinthians 7:13, 15 1 Corinthians 4:17), and Timothy returned by land, meeting Paul in Macedonia (2 Corinthians 1:1), who visited Greece again in 56-57 or 57-58.LITERATURE.Leake, Travels in the Morea, IlI, 229-304; Peloponnesiaca, 392; Curtius, Peloponnesos, II, 514; Clark, Peloponnesus, 42-61; Conybeare and Howson, The Life and Epistles' of Paul, chapter xii; Ramsay, "Corinth" (in HDB); Holm, History of Greece, I, 286; II, 142, and 306-16; III, 31-44, and 283; IV, 221, 251, 347 and 410-12.J. E. HarryCOR'INTH, the splendid capital of Achaia, 46 ms. w. of Athens, Cenchrea was its e. seaport. It is now desolate except that the little miserable village Gortho occupies a part of its ancient site.Strong's GreekG2882: KorinthosCorinth, a city of Greece

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Ancient Corinth Guide: History & Mythology

Thursday, 23 November 2023

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Key Takeaways

Ancient Corinth was strategically positioned on the isthmus connecting mainland Greece with the Peloponnese.

The archaeological site of Ancient Corinth includes the remains of temples, theaters, the agora, the Roman forum, baths, and various other structures.

The city's Acropolis, perched atop a hill, housed several important structures, including the Temple of Apollo.

While not directly related to ancient times, the Corinth Canal is a significant engineering marvel in the vicinity of Ancient Corinth that was completed in the late 19th century and connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf.

Only an hour away from the bustling city of Athens, Corinth is a Greek getaway destination that is easy to access, lively, and diverse.

Here, we have created the ultimate guide to Ancient Corinth, consisting of the best things to see and do in the city that combines history, culture, entertainment, historical facts, and mythological tales you can enjoy when visiting this fascinating destination on one of our Greece vacation packages.

We will dig deeper into the History of Corinth and will discover what Corinth was known for in ancient times as well as the History of the King of Corinth.

Corinth was one of the most important ancient Greek city-states in the whole region of Greece. With a history stretching across the span of around 8000 years, it is safe to say that it played an important role not just in Greek history but in world history as well.

The astonishing Corinth Canal

Ship passing through the Corinth Canal - credits: tetiana_u/Shutterstock.com

While approaching the city of Corinth in south-central Greece, the first sight you’ll stumble upon is the Corinth Canal.

The Corinth Canal consists of a narrow strip of land that connects Central Greece with the Peloponnese, while the canal brings together the Saronic Gulf with the Corinthian Gulf.

The strip of land extends to approximately 6 km, and it has been a significant point of reference for Greece since ancient times.

Because of its geographical position, the Corinth Canal was, in antiquity, a great naval, commercial, and cultural center. Today, it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world who admire its great construction.

Besides the canal, visitors have the opportunity to appreciate the two submersible bridges located on both of the Canal's ends, which get immersed in the water every time a boat travels through it.

From the Canal, you can gaze at the ruins of the ancient diol in the area of Posidonia, offering the opportunity for visitors to admire the great work of ancient Greece.

Another reason that brings thousands of travelers to the Canal, especially the most adventurous ones, is the fact that it offers a great setting for extreme sports.

You can chase your adrenaline fix by jumping off the Canal’s bridge in a bungee jumping experience or even cross the canal with a canoe or a surfboard!

From ancient culture lovers to thrill-seeking adventurers, the Corinth Canal is a sight thoroughly worth seeing!

The archaeological site of Ancient Corinth

The ruins of Ancient Corinth - credits: Tatiana Popova/Shutterstock.com

Ancient Corinth, inhabited since the Neolithic times, was considered the richest city of the ancient world and its most important commercial hub until the rise of Athens.

Its large production of agricultural goods favored the development of the intense commercial activity, mainly towards the western Mediterranean, while the city reached its economic peak in the 7th and 6th centuries BC.

The ruins of Ancient Corinth give important insight into the region’s ancient civilization and architecture, with the monuments on site being many and exceptional. One of the most well-known and awe-inspiring monuments in the region is the Archaic Temple of Apollo.

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The original temple dating from the early 7th to the early 6th century BC, was originally made of stone, bricks, wood, and clay. In the middle of the 6th century BC, a temple was erected in the place of the damaged original building in Doric order, consisting of monolithic Doric columns, of which seven remain standing.

Additionally, the Ancient Corinth Market, the Propylaia, the Peirini Fountain with its six openings, the Conservatory, the Corinthian Grand Theater with a capacity of 18.000, the wall of the ancient city, the relics of the Gymnasium and the Asklepieion, are the most important sights of Ancient Corinth you can marvel at.

The Acrocorinth

Another monument of great significance that excavations brought to light is the Acrocorinth. The Acrocorinth is a rock 579 meters above sea level, dominating the Corinthian region with Ancient Corinth built at its base. In antiquity, it was the Acropolis of Corinth and was used as a castle. Acrocorinth is one of the largest castles in the Peloponnese, with the perimeter of its walls reaching 3 km.

Although the castle as we see it today is a result of reconstructions and additions that took place during the Ottoman domination, most of its fortification took place in the 12th century during the Middle Byzantine era.

Due to its close proximity to the capital of Greece, you can indulge in an Ancient Corinth private trip from Athens, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable exploration of the history of Greece.

Corinth’s fascinating museums

The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth - credits: saiko3p/Sutterstock.com

It’s already clear that Corinth, in true Greek fashion, doesn't lack in history and culture. As a result, the city offers its visitors plenty of enthralling museums, with the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth, The Environment Museum of Stymphalia, and the Historical and Folklore Museum of Corinth being our favorites.

The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth was built to house the numerous objects brought to light by the archaeological excavation. It was erected by the American School of Classical Studies in 1932 and was expanded with the addition of another wing on the west side of the building in 1951.

The collections of the Archaeological Museum include findings of prehistoric times from the wider area of Ancient Corinth, Korakos Hill, as well as Zygouries, findings of Geometric-Archaic, Classical-Hellenistic, Roman-Byzantine, and Frankish era, findings from the Sanctuary of Asclepius, and the adjacent Early Christian cemetery of the city, a collection of Roman sculptures, Greek and Latin inscriptions in the Museum's patio, as well as evidence of the presence of the Jewish community in the Roman city, and findings from Corinthian comrades and sanctuaries, as well as the twin Kouros of the cemetery of Ancient Tenas.

Furthermore, the Environment Museum of Stymphalia is located in mountain Korinthia with an objective to highlight the codependent relationship between humans and nature, as well as their harmonious coexistence in the Stymphalia basin, bringing environmental awareness and providing information about the traditional technology of the region.

Last but not least, the Historical and Folklore Museum of Corinth was founded in 1976 to preserve and display folklore and historical material, as well as to inform the public about the region’s folklore culture.

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Corinth is located in the heart of Corinth’s city, next to Eleftherios Venizelos Square and behind the Corinthian Army Club, housed in a three-story building, which was donated to the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Its collection consists of exhibits dating from the early 19th century to the middle of the 20th century and includes traditional costumes from many regions of Greece, agricultural tools, and household utensils.

The natural beauty of the Corinth Area

Amazing landscape view of Doxa lake - credits: imagIN.gr photography/Shutterstock.com

Apart from its rich heritage, Corinth possesses extraordinary natural beauty, with its thick vegetation and stunning lakes being a bright example of the luscious and wild nature of the area. If you find yourself in the greater region of Corinth, don’t skip on visiting at least one of its marvelous lakes.

Lake Vouliagmeni is located approximately 16 km northwest of Loutraki, in close proximity to the archaeological site of Heraion and the settlement of Perachora.

It has a maximum length of 2 km and a maximum width of about 1 km, while it reaches 40 m in depth. The lake connects with the Corinthian Gulf from a 6-meters canal, in the vicinity of which have been found a trace of human settlements of the Early Helladic period, suggesting that the area has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC.

One of the most stunning lakes in the Peloponnese is Lake Doxa, an artificial lake located in the Ancient Feneos of Corinthia. Its construction was completed in the late 1990s, and at the center of the lake, you can find the chapel of Agios Fanourios.

Lake Stymphalia is located on mountain Korinthia at an altitude of 600 m. It is best known in Greek mythology as the place that hosted the sixth labor of Hercules, in which Hercules had to confront the Stymphalian Birds.

Lastly, Rema ton Mylon (the Stream of Mylon) is a natural stream within which you can find ponds filled with pebbles, waterfalls, and wooden bridges that transport the visitors in a dimension where ultimate relaxation is an end in itself, a rural place where you get to feel the majesty of nature in your bones.

It is located near the Zoholis Plateau, with its dense black forest of pine trees, and offers a peaceful path for every visitor who loves walking in nature. In other words: it is as close to a utopia as one can get!

The Modern City of Corinth

Pegasus, the emblem of the city of Corinth, situated in the center of the town - credits: By Lydia Vero

Just because we’ve waxed lyrical about the history of Ancient Corinth and the natural beauty of the region, it doesn’t mean that the modern city of Corinth is in any way or form inferior to its ancient counterpart.

On the contrary, not to be outdone, the city of Corinth, the capital of the prefecture, combines the charm and relaxing vibe of a provincial town with the plethora of choices in things to do and see of a bustling central city.

Founded as the continuation of Ancient Corinth, the city is located near the place where the Corinthian Gulf blends into the Saronic Gulf. The city is cleverly and beautifully mapped out, with wide roads, large sidewalks, and beautiful parks adding to its allure.

The sculpture of Pegasus, found in the square of Eleftheriou Venizelou, has become the emblematic symbol of the city, while Apostolos Pavlos Metropolitan Church stands as an imposing monument of Christianity.

A walk by the coast is an absolute must, where a wide selection of cafes and traditional taverns offer Greek delicacies for you to enjoy. In the summer months, you can also visit one of Corinth’s beaches, such as Kalamia Beach, where you can bask under the blazing Greek sun and dive into the refreshing waters of the Corinthian Gulf.

We know that Athens, the capital of Greece, along with the Greek islands, has stolen the thunder from Greece’s mainland. However, there is beauty to be discovered away from the chaotic vibe of the busy touristy spots. Don't neglect to enrich your stay in Greece with trips to less-known parts of the country, just like Cornith.

With parks, beautiful squares, a scenic port, and a selection of cultural and historical stimuli to keep you on your toes, Corinth has everything you want and then some! Follow our guide, and we promise that you'll experience Greece in a way only a few visitors do.

Are you still wondering why Corinth is so special? Here are 5+1 facts that will make you realize that this city is more important than you thought!

Things to do in Corinth

Apart from Cornith's archaeological interest, its modern city offers its visitors a variety of enjoyable things to do. While the coastal front, mainly of 'Agios Nikolaos' and 'Kalamia', is suitable for leisure and sports, the sidewalks inside the city function mainly as a commercial and economic center.

They have a length of about five building blocks, from Apostolou Pavlou to Dervenakion, and a width of two blocks, from Damaskinou to Kyprou Street.

By restricting car traffic from the center, the city gives priority to pedestrian transportation. The wide sidewalks are inviting for long walks and shopping sprees. They emphasize the existence of many shops in the commercial character of the center of Corinth, all of which you can take advantage of during your stay.

Additionally, if you visit Corinth during the summertime, you can go for a swim on its spectacular beaches. The main and most populous beach of Corinth, Kalamia beach, took its name from the many reeds -or 'kalamia' in Greek- that existed in the area before it was transformed into a tourist destination.

It is located near the city and is easily accessible following Georgiou Papandreou Street, which leads to the sea.

Kalamia is a beautiful, organized beach, which inside consists of fine sand and outside is covered, for the most part, by pebbles.

On this cosmopolitan and modern beachfront, the visitor can choose endless walks on the sidewalk, enjoy a pleasant environment in the many café-bars or dine in one of the delectable seaside taverns.

The beach is a fun meeting place for all ages for both locals and visitors, not only in the warmer months but throughout the year.

Corinth is one of the most ancient cities in Greece

Ancient ruins at the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth - credits: David H.Seymour/Shutterstock.com

There is no doubt that ancient Corinth was one of the most important cities to be found around Greece and actively shaped the ancient history of the region, holding quite an important role in ancient politics.

Extensive archaeological research has shown that people have resided in this area since Neolithic times.

With artifacts dating back to as early as 6500 BCE, the settlement of Corinth gradually grew into a dominant trade center of Greece during the Early Bronze Age.

The era of Kings in Corinth resulted in a powerful state that was not only able to control its nearby territories but was also rich enough to raise the interest of its enemies.

The 8th century for Corinth brought the invasion of the Bacchiadae, a Doric clan that put an end to the succession of Kings and established an aristocratic regiment with them as the rulers of Corinth.

A new phase of construction and prosperity began and the population of the city-state rose up to 5000 individuals, quite a substantial number for the time.

Through the centuries, Corinth had been continuously inhabited, with a small pause during Roman times.

Therefore, the declaration of Corinth as one of the most ancient regions of Greece is more than fair, considering its long and rich history!

Corinth was the birth city-state of one of the Seven Sages of Greece

Acrocorinh; the Acropolis of Ancient Corinth - credits: Pavel Kirichenko/Shutterstock.com

In Plato’s work Protagoras, we discover the listing of seven names after the title, 'The Seven Wise Men.'

According to tradition, these men were considered to be the wisest Greeks of all, who shaped their generation through their pioneering thought processes and advanced work.

One of them was Periander of Corinth, who lived during the 6th century BCE. He was the son of the first tyrant of Corinth, Cypselus, and got immortalized through a series of adventures that made him and the city of Corinth a formidable force.

During his rule, the city expanded and colonized faraway places, and the first coins of the city were struck. He even conceived and started a huge construction program to create a canal in order to connect the Saronic to the Corinthian Gulf.

After he realized the sheer scale of the project and faced the limit of the existing technology, he changed his plan by creating the Diolkos, a strip of land with appropriate infrastructure to drag ships and other vessels from the eastern to the western coast.

The unprecedented influx of money coming from tolls allowed him to invest in his city’s infrastructure, decorating it with lavish public buildings and temples, and spend even more as a patron of literature and philosophy.

Corinth had institutionalized sacred prostitution

Statue of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek god of beauty - credits: markara/shutterstock.com

At the top of the imposing hill of Acrocorinth, there used to be a temple dedicated to the goddess of love, Aphrodite.

The temple was located right next to the mythical spring that, according to legend, Asopus gave as a gift to Sisyphus. This temple was renowned in the ancient world and was described by Strabo when he visited Corinth in 2 BCE.

According to him, the temple already had over 1000 slaves-courtesans, both male and female, who had dedicated their lives in the service of the goddess.

It was known back then that getting the services from such a courtesan was quite costly, and thus, a saying Strabo mentions, stated that: “The voyage to Corinth is not for every man.”

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Stories of rich captains losing their jobs and ships for spending one night with a temple courtesan were numerous and known to every corner of the Greek world.

One really famous prostitute of the 4th century BCE was named Lais and charged high amounts for her services.

According to some sources, she asked Demosthenes 10.000 drachmas just for a night with her, an unthinkable sum of money considering the fact that an average day's pay was 1 drachma. She was so beautiful that even the famous painter Apellis hired her to pose for him in some of his paintings.

Corinth hosted the Panhellenic Isthmian Games

Corinth canal, -or 'isthmos' in Greek- the place that gave Isthmian Games their name - credits: EleniMac/Shutterstock.com

The Isthmian Games were one of the four Panhellenic Games that existed in antiquity. Just like the Olympic Games, athletes from all over Greece were eager to participate in the Games, honoring the patron god, Poseidon.

According to the legend, the founder of the Isthmian Games was Sisyphus himself, and an Isthmian Truce (just like the Olympian one) was declared before the start of the festival to ensure the safe passage of the athletes to Corinth.

The prize for these games were wreaths made out of celery and, later on, made out of pine.

During the 2nd century BCE, Romans were allowed to take part in the festival, and eventually, the games stopped after the decision of Theodosius I in the 4th century AD. The ancient stadium of Isthmia is still preserved right next to the temple of Poseidon.

Corinth was destroyed to the ground and refounded by the Romans

The archaeological site of Ancient Corinth - credits: Tatiana Popova/Shutterstock.com

After the destruction of Carthage in 146 BCE, the Romans proclaimed to the rest of the world their hegemony and unquestionable rule. In Greece, the Achaean League reacted to the provocations of the Romans, and later that year, a decisive battle between those two parties happened outside of the city of Corinth.

Despite the minor victories of the Greeks, the commander Lucius Mummius vanquished the Greek army and continued by destroying to the ground, the city of Corinth. Additionally, he captured all the male population of the city and executed them on-site, while women and young children were sold as slaves.

The destroyed city was left in ruins for almost a century when Julius Caesar re-founded the city under the name Colonia Laus Iulia Corinthiensis (a colony of Corinth in honor of Julius) in 44 BC, before his assassination.

After several years, Corinth finally recovered, reintroducing itself as one of the most dynamic harbors of the Mediterranean, with a huge population of Greeks, Romans, and Jews.

Apostle Paul lived and preached in Corinth

It is believed that Apostle Paul arrived in Corinth in 49 or 50 AD and organized the first Church of Corinth, making it an Apostolic See. In Corinth, he met Priscilla and Aquila, who later on came to be two of the Seventy Disciples.

He lived and worked with them in the city for more than eighteen months, where he frequently visited and preached at the local synagogue.

The fact that he lived for that long in Corinth shows the presence of a well-established Jewish community of Corinth that allowed him to worship and preach in their synagogue.

Although two Epistles to Corinthians have been included in the New Testament, scholars claim that during his life, he wrote probably more than four, conveying the dynamic character of this new Church and his investment in spreading Christianity.

Sisyphus, the First King of Corinth

Probably one of the most interesting and by far one of the most influential figures of Greek mythology, Sisyphus and his toil-inspired authors and intellectuals of both the ancient and modern world.

From Homer, Plato, and Ovid to Albert Camus, Franz Kafka, and Simone de Beauvoir, his emblematic story survived through the centuries and even became part of modern pop culture.

His story even makes an appearance in Percy Jackson and the Olympians, helping Percy in the Fields of Punishment, while it is also mentioned in Lemony Snicket's: A series of Unfortunate Events! But who is Sisyphus, and what is so special about him?

Sisyphus was the son of the King of Thessaly Aeolus and Enarete -translating in Greek to 'the virtuous one.' He was the mythical founder and King of the city of Ephyra, which was later renamed Corinth.

As King, he succeeded in making the city an important trading center, and eventually, Ephyra prospered, but at a price. Sisyphus, with his brutal reign, managed to remain in power by outsmarting his opponents with numerous deceitful actions.

Ancient Corinth - credits: WitR/Shutterstock.com

Mythology facts about Corinth

Even though Sisyphus had already raised the attention of the Gods, one particular event sealed his destiny.

Once, while being on his land in Corinth, Sisyphus witnessed the sight of a huge eagle abducting a young maiden. Stunned at first, he quickly realized that the majestic beast was Zeus himself, having taken the form of his sacred bird.

The unlucky young maiden was Aegina, the daughter of the river-god Asopus. In her time of need, she desperately screamed for her father's help. When Asopus arrived in Corinth, he asked Sisyphus whether he knew anything in regard to his beloved daughter.

Sisyphus agreed to confess to him everything he knew but on one condition: a new spring on top of his acropolis (Acrocorinth) for the watering of Corinth.

Detail: Aegina and Zeus, Ferdinand Bol (1616-1680) - credits: wikipedia.org

When Zeus realized Sisyphus betrayed him, he furiously ordered Thanatos (Death) to capture and lead him to Tartarus, the deepest part of the Underworld. Tartarus was known as the prison of Titans and as a place of divine punishment designed for the most wicked souls.

There, Sisyphus cleverly exercised all of his craftiness. By the time Thanatos showed him the enchanted chains of Tartarus, Sisyphus slyly tricked him into chaining himself by persistently asking him to demonstrate how the chains worked.

That way, he managed to escape to the world of the living, but with terrible consequences: with Thanatos trapped, no one could die. Therefore, the world got full of invincible warriors and undying old men! A huge turmoil was created, and Ares, the god of war, decided to intervene.

With no one dead, warfare and battles had lost their purpose, so he descended to the Underworld to free Thanatos from his divine chains.

When Sisyphus grew old, terrified of facing Thanatos again, he ordered his wife Merope to throw his body on the public square of Ephyra -or Corinth- after his imminent death. As a result, Sisyphus could not continue his journey to the Underworld and found himself trapped on the shores of the river Styx.

There, he pled to Persephone, the wife of Hades, to allow him to return to the mortal world to punish his disrespectful wife and arrange a proper burial for his body. After his refusal to return to the Underworld, the Gods sent Hermes, the messenger of the gods, to find him and escort him back in front of Hades.

As punishment for having cheated the Olympian Gods not once but twice, Zeus condemned Sisyphus to carry a boulder to the top of a hill, which closely resembled the one of his own city, Corinth.

The twist to his punishment was that Zeus enchanted the boulder to roll back down the hill every single time Sisyphus reached the top, resulting in a never-ending, maddening process.

Sisyphus' cruel faith was deeply inscribed in the minds of the ancient Greeks, constantly reminding them of the danger of the fury of the Gods.

Sisyphus became a symbol of interminability and eternal frustration. Polygnotus, the ancient Greek painter, vividly depicted his agony on the walls of Lesche at the sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi.

Final Thoughts

Next time you visit Corinth, spend some time thinking about Sisyphus on your way to Acrocorinth and learning from his mistakes. Find out how to create your own unique travel experience, or check out the rest of our Greece tours!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What was Ancient Corinth known for?

Ancient Corinth was the greatest port of the classical Greek world that could control both bays on both sides of the Isthmus. It was a meeting point for merchants and travelers of the East and West and a mandatory passage for all those who moved between northern Greece and the Peloponnese.

As a result, the economic and port activities contributed to making Corinth one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities of the ancient world.

What God did Ancient Corinth worship?

The Corinthians were very pious, as evidenced by the findings of the excavations. In Corinth, they worshiped Aphrodite, Athena, Apollo, Demeter and Kore, Hera, Poseidon, and Asclepius. Religious festivals included music, processions, rituals, theatrical and sporting events, and, of course, offerings to the gods.

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Greece

Corinth

Ancient Korinthos, Peloponnese, West Greece and Ionian Sea, Greece

Corinth was a major city to both the Ancient Greeks and the Ancient Romans and its fascinating ruins are a popular tourist destination.

Sarah Roller

24 Nov 2020

@SarahRoller8

About Corinth

Ancient Corinth, the ruins of which can be found in the modern town of Korinthos, was a city of major importance in Ancient Greece and in Ancient Rome. Located in between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, Corinth was a vital port and a thriving city-state as well as being of religious significance.

History of Corinth

Inhabited since the Neolithic period, Corinth grew from the 8th century BC under the Ancient Greeks, developing into a centre of trade and a city of great riches. Much of this wealth was accumulated from the 7th century BC under the rule of Periander, who exploited Corinth’s location in the Isthmus of Corinth. By travelling through Corinth, ships could cross quickly between the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf, avoiding the need to sail around the coast. Corinth had the diolkos, a ship hauling device which allowed them to do just that. Ship owners were charged for using this device, providing Corinth with an ongoing flow of income.

Corinth became such a powerful city-state that it even established various colonies such as Syracuse and Epidamnus. In 338 BC, following the Peloponnesian War and the subsequent Corinthian War, Corinth was conquered by Philip II of Macedon. Throughout the classical era, Corinth had held regular sporting tournaments known as the Isthmian Games. These were continued under the Macedonians and, in fact, it was at the 336 BC Isthmus Games that Alexander the Great was selected to lead the Macedonians in the war against Persia.

In 146 BC, Corinth suffered partial destruction from the invasion of Roman general Mummius, although it was later rebuilt under Julius Caesar, eventually growing into an even more prosperous Roman city. Corinth’s decline began in 267 AD following the invasion of the Herulians. Over the subsequent years, it would fall into the hands of the Turks, the Knights of Malta, the Venetians and finally the Greeks, each of these conflicts, together with numerous natural disasters, depleting but never entirely destroying the city’s once magnificent sites.

Another interesting aspect of Corinth is its diverse religious history. Dedicated to the Greek deities of Apollo, Octavia and Aphrodite, during Roman times it was also the home of a large Jewish community as well as being visited by the Apostle Paul.

Corinth today

Today, visitors to Corinth can see its many ancient sites, including the fairly well-preserved ruins of the Temple of Apollo, which was built in 550 BC and the remaining columns of the Temple of Octavia. By contrast, only few remnants remain of the former Temple of Aphrodite, once a home of Corinth’s sacred prostitutes. Perhaps what makes Corinth such a fascinating site is that, due to its extensive wealth over the years, this ancient city’s Doric architecture was exceptionally ornate.

Beyond these sacred sites, much of Corinth’s original infrastructure is visible along with many remains from the Roman-era city, including the Theatre and the Peirene Fountain.

Those wanting to learn more about Corinth and see many of the artefacts from its excavation can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth.

Getting to Corinth

Corinth is on an Isthmus – it’s easily accessible from Athens via motorway 8. The journey should take just over an hour. Corinth also has a train station, with direct connections to Athens (1 hour) and Kiato (40 mins).

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Name

Corinth

Alternative Name

Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth

Timeline

Ancient Greece,

Ancient Rome

Place

Greece

Building Category

Ancient City,

Archaeological Park,

Temple,

Theatre

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