Phocaeans

The Phocaeans were ancient Greek sailors and settlers from the city of Phocaea, located on the coast of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Around the 8th century BCE, they became excellent seafarers, establishing colonies across the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Notable colonies included Massalia (modern Marseille) in France and Emporion in Spain. Their skills in navigation and trade helped expand Greek influence and contributed to the development of maritime commerce. The Phocaeans played a key role in spreading Greek culture and establishing trade routes that connected different parts of the ancient world.