Settlements > Adramyttion

Adramyttion

Background

Adramyttion, also known as Adramyttium (modern-day Edremit in Turkey), was an ancient city located on the northwest coast of Asia Minor, near the Gulf of Adramyttium. The city played a significant role in various historical periods, from its founding to its involvement in Roman and early Christian history.

Early History and Founding

1. Origins:

   • Adramyttion is believed to have been founded by Adramys, a brother of the legendary King Croesus of Lydia, in the 6th century BCE. The city's name is derived from its founder.
   • It became an important settlement due to its strategic location on the coast, facilitating trade and maritime activities.

2. Persian and Greek Influence:

   • During the Persian Empire's control of Asia Minor, Adramyttion was a significant administrative and commercial center.
   • After the Persian Wars, the city came under Greek influence, particularly during the period of the Delian League, an alliance led by Athens.

Hellenistic Period

1. Control by Successor States:

   • Following the conquests of Alexander the Great, Adramyttion fell under the control of various Hellenistic successor states. Initially, it was part of the territories governed by the Seleucids.
   • Later, it became part of the Kingdom of Pergamon, a Hellenistic state that rose to prominence in the region.

2. Cultural Development:

   • The Hellenistic period saw significant cultural and architectural development in Adramyttion. The city flourished as a center of Hellenistic culture, with temples, public buildings, and other infrastructures reflecting the era's artistic and architectural styles.

Roman Period

1. Integration into the Roman Empire:

   • In 133 BCE, the last king of Pergamon, Attalus III, bequeathed his kingdom to Rome. Adramyttion thus became part of the Roman province of Asia.
   • Under Roman rule, Adramyttion continued to thrive as a significant commercial and administrative hub. Its strategic coastal location made it an important port city in the Roman Empire.

2. Christianity:

   • During the early Christian period, Adramyttion was one of the cities where Christianity began to spread. The city's mention in the Acts of the Apostles indicates its early Christian community.
   • Adramyttion is noted in Acts 27:2 as the port where the ship carrying the Apostle Paul embarked on his journey to Rome.

Byzantine Period

1. Continued Importance:

   • Adramyttion remained an important city during the Byzantine period. It was an episcopal see, indicating its continued significance in the Christian church hierarchy.
   • The city experienced various periods of prosperity and decline, often reflecting the broader fortunes of the Byzantine Empire.

2. Arab Raids and Decline:

   • During the 7th and 8th centuries, Adramyttion faced raids by Arab forces, contributing to periods of decline. However, it remained a vital regional center.

Modern Era

1. Ottoman Period:

   • The city continued to be inhabited during the Ottoman period and was known as Edremit. It maintained its role as a local commercial and agricultural center.

2. Current Status:

   • Today, the modern town of Edremit in Turkey continues to reflect the long historical legacy of Adramyttion. The region is known for its olive oil production and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Adramyttion was a city of considerable historical importance from its founding in the ancient period through the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras. Its strategic location on the coast of Asia Minor made it a vital commercial and cultural center. The city's legacy continues in the modern town of Edremit, which carries forward its rich historical heritage.

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