Settlements > Cius

Cius

Cius, also known as Kios, was an ancient Greek city located in the region of Bithynia in northwestern Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). It was situated on the southern shore of the Propontis (Sea of Marmara), near the modern town of Gemlik. Cius played an important role in the ancient maritime trade routes and had significant interactions with various cultures and empires throughout its history. Here are some key points about Cius:

Geographic Location

1. Bithynia: Cius was located in Bithynia, a region in northwestern Asia Minor, known for its fertile lands and strategic coastal position.
2. Propontis: The city was situated on the southern coast of the Sea of Marmara, providing it with a favorable position for maritime trade and communication.

Historical Significance

1. Foundation: Cius was founded as a Greek colony, possibly by settlers from Miletus or other Greek city-states, during the period of Greek colonization in the 7th or 6th century BCE.
2. Trade and Commerce: Due to its strategic coastal location, Cius became an important center for trade and commerce. It facilitated the exchange of goods between the Greek mainland, the Aegean islands, and the interior regions of Asia Minor.
3. Persian and Hellenistic Periods: During the Persian Wars, Cius came under Persian control, and later it became part of the empire of Alexander the Great. After Alexander's death, the city was incorporated into the Hellenistic kingdoms, including the Seleucid and Attalid empires.

Notable Events and Figures

1. Hannibal's Visit: The Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca visited Cius during his exile after the Second Punic War. Hannibal sought refuge in the court of King Prusias I of Bithynia, who ruled the region including Cius.
2. Roman Period: Cius eventually became part of the Roman Empire. Under Roman rule, the city continued to prosper as a trade center and benefited from the stability and infrastructure provided by the empire.

Archaeological Evidence

1. Ruins and Remains: Archaeological excavations in the area of Cius have uncovered remains of ancient structures, including fortifications, public buildings, and residential areas. These findings provide insights into the urban layout and architecture of the city.
2. Artifacts: Various artifacts, such as pottery, coins, inscriptions, and tools, have been discovered at the site. These artifacts shed light on the daily life, economy, and cultural practices of the inhabitants of Cius.

Cultural and Economic Influence

1. Cultural Exchange: As a significant trade hub, Cius was a melting pot of various cultures, including Greek, Persian, and later Roman influences. The city played a role in the spread of Greek culture and Hellenistic civilization in the region.
2. Economic Activities: The economy of Cius was based on maritime trade, agriculture, and local craftsmanship. The city's harbor facilitated the export and import of goods, contributing to its economic prosperity.

Legacy

1. Historical Records: The history of Cius is documented in various ancient sources, including writings by Greek and Roman historians. These records provide valuable information about the city's significance in antiquity.
2. Modern Gemlik: The modern town of Gemlik, located near the ancient site of Cius, continues to be an important economic and cultural center in northwestern Turkey. The legacy of Cius lives on through its historical and archaeological heritage.

Conclusion

Cius was an important ancient Greek city located in Bithynia, northwestern Asia Minor, known for its strategic coastal position on the Sea of Marmara. It played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange throughout its history, from its founding during the Greek colonization period to its incorporation into the Roman Empire. The archaeological remains and historical records of Cius provide valuable insights into the city's economic, cultural, and historical significance in the ancient world.

Sources

Michel Lequien, Oriens christianus in quatuor Patriarchatus digestus, Paris 1740, Vol. I, coll. 631-636

Raymond Janin, v. Cius, in Dictionnaire d'Histoire et de Géographie ecclésiastiques, vol. XII, Paris 1953, coll. 1024-1026

Pius Bonifacius Gams, Series episcoporum Ecclesiae Catholicae, Leipzig 1931, p. 443

Annuario Pontificio 2013 (Libreria Editrice Vaticana 2013 ISBN 978-88-209-9070-1), p. 870

Richard Talbert, Barrington Atlas of the Greek and Roman World (ISBN 0-691-03169-X), p. 52.

William Smith, Classical Dictionary, s.v. "Cius".