Settlements > Croton

Croton

Croton, also known as Kroton or Crotona, was an ancient Greek city located in southern Italy, in the region of Calabria. It was one of the most significant and prosperous cities of Magna Graecia, the area of southern Italy and Sicily colonized by Greek settlers. Here are some key points about Croton:

Foundation and Early History

1. Foundation: Croton was founded around 710 BCE by Greek colonists from Achaea, a region in the northern Peloponnese. According to tradition, the city's founder was Myskellos of Rhypes.
2. Location: The city was strategically situated on the eastern coast of the Calabria region, near the Ionian Sea, which facilitated trade and maritime activities.

Historical Significance

1. Military Prowess: Croton was renowned for its strong military and athletic traditions. The city produced many victorious athletes in the ancient Olympic Games, with Milo of Croton being one of the most famous. Milo was a legendary wrestler who won numerous Olympic titles in the 6th century BCE.
2. Pythagoras: Around 530 BCE, the famous philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras settled in Croton, where he established a religious and philosophical school. The Pythagorean school had a profound influence on the intellectual and political life of the city and contributed to its cultural development.

Political and Social Structure

1. Oligarchy: Croton was initially governed by an oligarchy, a political system controlled by a small group of wealthy and powerful citizens. The Pythagorean influence promoted a more communal and disciplined society, emphasizing virtues and ethical living.
2. Pythagorean Influence: Pythagoras and his followers wielded considerable influence over the city's politics and social structure. However, there were periods of tension and conflict between the Pythagoreans and other factions within the city.

Economic Activities

1. Trade and Commerce: Croton's location made it an important center for trade and commerce. The city engaged in maritime trade with other Greek colonies, as well as with indigenous Italic tribes and neighboring regions.
2. Agriculture: The fertile lands around Croton supported agriculture, particularly the cultivation of grains, olives, and grapes. The city's economy was bolstered by its agricultural production.

Conflicts and Rivalries

1. Sybaris: Croton had a long-standing rivalry with the nearby city of Sybaris, another powerful Greek colony in Magna Graecia. This rivalry culminated in a decisive conflict around 510 BCE, known as the Battle of the River Traeis, where Croton defeated Sybaris and destroyed the city.
2. Roman Conquest: Like many other Greek cities in Magna Graecia, Croton eventually came under Roman control. It became part of the Roman Republic in the 3rd century BCE and played a role in various conflicts, including the Pyrrhic Wars and the Second Punic War.

Decline and Legacy

1. Decline: After the Roman conquest, Croton experienced a gradual decline in political and economic significance. The city suffered from invasions, internal strife, and changing trade routes.
2. Archaeological Remains: Today, the archaeological site of Croton includes remnants of ancient temples, public buildings, and fortifications. The Temple of Hera Lacinia, located near Croton, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the area.

Conclusion

Croton was a significant Greek city in Magna Graecia, known for its military prowess, athletic achievements, and philosophical contributions, particularly through the influence of Pythagoras. Its strategic location facilitated trade and commerce, making it an important center in the ancient Greek world. Despite its decline under Roman rule, Croton's legacy continues through its historical and archaeological heritage.

Sources