Ancient Greece

Ancient Greece is the civilization belonging to the period of history lasting from the Archaic period to the Roman conquest of Greece after the Battle of Corinth. At the center of this time period is Classical Greece, which flourished during the 5th to 4th centuries BC, at first under Athenian leadership successfully repelling the military threat of Persian invasion. The Athenian Golden Age ends with the defeat of Athens at the hands of Sparta in the Peloponnesian War in 404 BC.

Ancient Greek history is replete with intriguing legends and myths. For instance, the mystery of the Minoans, Europe’s first civilization, continues to confound scholars and archaeologists. The Palace of Knossos on Crete, where the Minoans lived from the 27th to the 15th centuries BC, draws visitors from all over the world. The palace is home to the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur, as well as stunning murals, jewelry, and pottery.

Fabled Troy is another part of Ancient Greece that remains shrouded in mystery. Site of the Trojan War and Homer’s Odyssey and Iliad, archaeologists have uncovered several cities built on top of one another in what is now Çanakkale, Turkey.

Delphi was also an important Greek site, so much so that it was referred to as the “navel” (or center) of the Earth. People journeyed from afar to visit Delphi’s famous oracle, said to communicate messages from Apollo himself.

And, of course Athens is known as the “cradle of Western civilization” as well as the “birthplace of democracy.” Athens became a center of the arts, learning, and philosophy during the Classical Period. The works of Plato and Socrates, the Delian League, and the Acropolis all emerged from this era. Classical Greek culture had a powerful influence on the Roman Empire, which carried a version of it to many parts of the Mediterranean region and Europe.

Learn more about Ancient Greece in the following DVD books, including video with expert commentary, as well as full-length books complete with photos, maps, and timelines.