Greek colonies

Greek colonies were settlements established by ancient Greek city-states around the Mediterranean and Black Seas, starting in the 8th century BCE. These colonies were founded due to factors like overpopulation, trade opportunities, and the search for fertile land. Each colony maintained cultural ties to its parent city-state but developed its own government and local identity. They played a vital role in spreading Greek culture, language, and trade networks, significantly influencing the regions they settled in and contributing to the interconnectedness of the ancient world. Notable colonies include Byzantium, Syracuse, and Massalia (modern-day Marseille).