Taras, ancient Greek city
Taras was an ancient polis on the southeastern coast of Italy, situated on a peninsula in the Gulf of Taranto. The city had two harbors: a protected old harbor with small islands and an inland lagoon, which together highlighted its importance for trade and maritime activity.
Taras was founded in the 8th century BCE by Spartan settlers, with tradition naming a hero called Phalanthus. The city developed into a wealthy power, reaching its peak under the leader Archytas in the 4th century BCE, and later resisted Roman conquest until finally becoming part of the Roman Empire in 209 BCE.
The name Taras comes from a Greek legend about a hero connected to the sea. The city reveals itself today through its archaeological remains and museum collections, which reflect the religious life with temples dedicated to gods like Poseidon and Demeter.
The remains of the ancient city lie buried beneath modern buildings today, but some ancient stones and foundations remain visible. The Archaeological Museum houses numerous artifacts from different periods and offers the best access to this rich historical heritage.
The famous two columns of a Poseidon temple from the 6th century BCE still stand at the site today and are among the few visible remains. These columns are a rare testimony to Greek architecture that has survived millennia.
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