Hellenistic Structures > Walls of Messene

Walls of Messene

Background

The Walls of Messene

The Walls of Messene, constructed in the 4th century BCE, are among the most impressive and well-preserved examples of ancient Greek military architecture. Located in the region of Messenia in the southwestern Peloponnese, the city of Messene and its walls were built by the Theban general Epaminondas after the Battle of Leuctra (371 BCE) to secure Messenian independence from Sparta.

Historical Background

1. Foundation of Messene:

   • Epaminondas’ Campaign: After defeating Sparta at the Battle of Leuctra, Epaminondas led a campaign into the Peloponnese, founding the city of Messene in 369 BCE. The city was established as a stronghold for the newly liberated Messenians, who had been under Spartan control for centuries.
   • Strategic Importance: The location of Messene was chosen for its strategic position on the slopes of Mount Ithome, which provided natural defenses and a commanding view of the surrounding region.

2. Purpose of the Walls:

   • Defensive Role: The walls were constructed to protect the city from potential Spartan retaliation and to secure the independence and safety of the Messenian people.
   • Symbol of Freedom: The fortifications symbolized the newfound freedom and autonomy of the Messenians, serving both practical and ideological purposes.

Architectural Features

1. Extent and Dimensions:

   • Length: The walls of Messene extended for approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) around the city, enclosing an area of about 3.2 square kilometers (1.2 square miles).
   • Height and Thickness: The walls were built to a height of up to 7 meters (23 feet) and a thickness of about 3 meters (10 feet), providing robust protection against sieges and assaults.

2. Construction Techniques:

   • Materials: The walls were constructed using large limestone blocks, quarried locally. The blocks were cut and fitted together without mortar, a technique known as ashlar masonry.
   • Foundations: The walls were built on strong foundations, often utilizing the natural rock of Mount Ithome for added stability.

3. Towers and Bastions:

   • Defensive Towers: The walls featured numerous square and rectangular towers at regular intervals, providing vantage points for archers and artillery. These towers enhanced the defensive capabilities of the walls by allowing defenders to fire on attackers from elevated positions.
   • Bastions: Protruding bastions were integrated into the wall design to offer flanking fire along the curtain walls and to strengthen vulnerable sections.

4. Gates and Entrances:

   • Main Gates: The walls of Messene included several main gates, which were heavily fortified with multiple layers of defense. Notable gates include the Arcadian Gate and the Laconian Gate.
   • Gate Design: The gates were designed with protective features such as guardhouses, portcullises, and angled entrances to slow down and expose attackers.

Notable Features

1. Arcadian Gate:

   • Description: The Arcadian Gate is one of the best-preserved sections of the walls. It was a main entrance to the city from the north, leading towards the region of Arcadia.
   • Design: The gate features a large circular courtyard with two massive towers on either side, creating a defensive stronghold. The entrance passage was angled, forcing attackers to expose their flanks to defenders.

2. Laconian Gate:

   • Description: The Laconian Gate provided access from the south, towards Laconia and Sparta. It was similarly fortified and played a crucial role in defending against Spartan attacks.
   • Defensive Structures: The gate complex included multiple layers of defense, such as outer and inner gates, guard towers, and a narrow passageway to trap and attack intruders.

Historical Significance

1. Military Importance:

   • Defensive Stronghold: The walls of Messene provided a formidable defense against potential Spartan incursions and other threats. Their construction marked a significant shift in the balance of power in the Peloponnese.
   • Survival and Independence: The fortifications helped ensure the survival and independence of the Messenian state during a tumultuous period in Greek history.

2. Architectural Legacy:

   • Engineering Achievement: The walls of Messene are considered a masterpiece of ancient military engineering, showcasing advanced construction techniques and strategic design.
   • Inspiration for Future Fortifications: The design and construction of the walls influenced subsequent fortification efforts in the Hellenistic and later periods.

Archaeological and Cultural Heritage

1. Preservation and Excavation:

   • Well-Preserved Sections: Large sections of the walls, particularly around the Arcadian Gate, remain well-preserved and are a testament to the durability of ancient Greek construction techniques.
   • Ongoing Excavations: Archaeological excavations continue to uncover and preserve additional sections of the walls and other structures within the ancient city.

2. Tourism and Education:

   • Cultural Heritage Site: The walls of Messene are a significant cultural heritage site, attracting tourists, historians, and archaeologists from around the world.
   • Educational Value: The site provides valuable insights into ancient Greek military architecture, urban planning, and the historical context of the Hellenistic period.

Conclusion

The walls of Messene represent a remarkable achievement in Hellenistic military architecture. Constructed in the aftermath of the Battle of Leuctra, they provided the newly liberated Messenian people with a secure and defensible city. The walls, with their extensive length, robust construction, and sophisticated defensive features, stand as a testament to the strategic and engineering prowess of the ancient Greeks. Today, they continue to be an important cultural and historical landmark, offering insights into the complexities of ancient warfare and urban defense.

Sources