The Hexamilion and the Fortress

By (author) Timothy E. Gregory

Book cover: The Hexamilion and the Fortress

Extent: 180, 180 pages

Publisher: American School of Classical Studies at Athens

Subjects: Classical Studies, Mediterranean Archaeology

Series: Isthmia

Series volume number: 5

Language: English

(Hardback) (Published)

(December 1993)

ISBN: 9780876619353

9.02 x 12.01 inches

Price: $99.95

In stock

This fifth volume in the Isthmia series examines earlier attempts to fortify the Isthmus of Corinth and presents the most important testimonia for historical interpretation. The archaeological remains of the Hexamilion are traced from the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf, with topographical maps and a schematic view of its elevati


The Hexamilion, a 7,600 meter long wall across the Isthmus of Corinth, was built in the reign of Theodosius II (A.D. 408 to 450) in an attempt to preserve the Greek peninsula from barbarian invasion. The fortress, located directly east and northeast of the sanctuary of Poseidon, is the best-preserved part of the Byzantine fortifications and is the area most fully excavated. This fifth volume in the Isthmia series examines earlier attempts to fortify the Isthmus and presents the most important testimonia for historical interpretation. The archaeological remains of the Hexamilion are traced from the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf, with topographical maps and a schematic view of its elevation. Matters of military strategy and construction techniques are discussed and historical analysis provided.

  • By (author) Timothy E. Gregory