Settlements > Alexandria Prophthasia
Alexandria Prophthasia
Background
Alexandria Prophthasia also known as Alexandria in Drangiana was one of the seventy-plus cities founded or renamed by Alexander the Great. The town was founded by Alexander the Great during an intermediate stop between Herat, the location of another of Alexander's fortresses, and Kandahar. and is mentioned by Strabo, Pliny, Ammianus Marcellinus, Isidore of Charax and Pseudo-Plutarch Alexander the Great, arrived in Drangiana in November 330BC on his way to Kandahar, and found a well-organized province of the Achaemenid empire. Alexander appointed a new satrap, Arsames, and renamed the capital city as Prophthasia, (Anticipation), because Alexander had here discovered a conspiracy against his life, organized by his companion Philotas.
The location of Prophthasia is currently unknown. Orthodox opinion is that Prophthasia was at Farah (also known as Phra) and that the citadel of Farah holds the remains of his fortress. However, taking distances given in Pliny, Eratosthenes and Strabo, Tarn believes Farah is too close to the city of Herat and the city was actually at nearby Zaranj. Others feel it was located at Nād-e 'Alī.
Mercator Map (1578)
The 1578 world map which Mercator constructed from Ptolemy's map shows the city some distance to the north of the Zaranji lakes.
Alexandria Prophthasia
Introduction
Alexandria Prophthasia, one of the many cities founded by Alexander the Great, was situated in the region of Drangiana, modern-day southeastern Iran. The city's establishment was part of Alexander's broader strategy to secure his conquests and facilitate administrative control and cultural integration across his empire.
Historical Context
- Foundation: Founded during Alexander's campaign in 330 BCE, Alexandria Prophthasia served as a critical military and administrative hub. It was strategically located to oversee the vast territories of Drangiana and Arachosia.
- Naming: The city was named "Prophthasia," meaning "foresight" or "precaution," reflecting its strategic importance in Alexander's plans to prevent uprisings and secure his eastern territories.
Strategic Importance
- Military Base: Alexandria Prophthasia functioned as a military base, enabling Alexander to project power and maintain control over the eastern parts of his empire. It provided a secure location for his troops and facilitated the movement of forces across the region.
- Administrative Center: The city also acted as an administrative center, helping to integrate local populations into the Hellenistic world through the establishment of Greek-style governance and infrastructure.
Cultural Integration
- Hellenistic Influence: The establishment of Alexandria Prophthasia contributed to the spread of Hellenistic culture in the region. Greek art, architecture, and urban planning were introduced, influencing local customs and traditions.
- Local Adaptation: While the city brought Greek cultural elements, it also adapted to local conditions and incorporated aspects of Persian and Central Asian cultures, creating a unique blend of influences.
Decline and Legacy
- Post-Alexander Period: After Alexander's death, the city's significance waned as his empire fragmented. However, it remained an important regional center for several centuries, reflecting the enduring impact of Alexander's conquests.
- Archaeological Evidence: Modern archaeological efforts have uncovered remnants of the city's layout and infrastructure, providing insights into its historical role and cultural significance.
Conclusion
Alexandria Prophthasia stands as a testament to Alexander the Great's vision of a unified and culturally integrated empire. Its strategic location, military significance, and role in cultural integration highlight the multifaceted approach Alexander employed to secure and administer his vast conquests.
Sources
Edward James Rapson, The Cambridge History of India, Volume 1. 1955 Cambridge University Press. Page 380
Caii Plinii secundi Naturalis historiae libri XXXVII interpretatione et notis illustravit Joannes Harduinus in usum Delphini Jean Hardouin, Pline l'Ancien, Hardouin page 698.
Ralph Griffiths, George Edward Griffiths The Monthly Review May 1749-Sept. 1803 Page 514
Strabo, 11.8 & 15.2.
Pliny Naturalis Historia 6.61
Ammianus Marcellinus 13.6.
Isidore of Charax, Parthian Stations (Itinerarium) 17.
Pseudo-Plutarch De Alex.
Caii Plinii secundi Naturalis historiae libri XXXVII interpretatione et notis illustravit Joannes Harduinus in usum Delphini Jean Hardouin, Pline l'Ancien, Hardouin page 698.
Ralph Griffiths, George Edward Griffiths The Monthly Review May 1749-Sept. 1803 Page 514
Isidore of Charax, The Parthian Stations 17.
Pliny XI 61.
Strabo XI 514.
