Bibliography

 

Photo by Yana Marudova on Unsplash 

KAKO SU GRCI VIĐELI CRNU GORU; Angeliki Konstantakopoulou

HOW THE GREEKS SAW MONTENEGROwww. maticacrnogorska.me MATICA, jesen 2010. pg. 335

mr Dejan Gazivoda: Antički kultovi na tlu Crne Goredoktorska disertacija; UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE Faculty of philosophy; Beograd, 2015

Kulturne interakcije na egejsko-jadranskom prostoru krajem brončanog i početkom željeznog doba sa posebnim naglaskom na razvoj i strukturu mita; Tijana Križanović, Sarajevo
Godišnjak/Jahrbuch 2015,44:49-65 DOI: 10.5644/Godisnjak.CBI.ANUBiH-44.55

Grci i drugi: antička percepcija i percepcija antike S Babić CLIO

Hellenic Travels to the Past: The hidden Greek history of Montenegro – it’s in the Balkans

Posted by HERCULEAN on 16 AUGUST, 2019

Ancient Greek Coin Finds from Risan, ancient Rhizon, from the former Center for Archaeological Research of Montenegro

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Discovering the Past and Present of Sparta: A Tourist's Guide to the Contemporary City in Greece

A group of enthusiastic Montenegrin tourists embarked on a journey to Sparta, Greece, on a quest to uncover the heritage connections between the Peloponnese and their homeland. With a shared history that harks back to ancient times, the travelers were eager to explore the remnants of Sparta's storied past and find the threads that linked their own Montenegrin heritage to this legendary Greek city.

Their adventure began with a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Sparta, a remarkable structure that transported them back in time. Standing in the same place where audiences once gathered for theatrical performances, the Montenegrin visitors marveled at the intricate design of the theater and imagined the echoes of ancient dramas that once resounded here. The historical significance of the theater resonated deeply with the tourists, reminding them of the enduring love for arts and culture that transcends time and borders.

Continuing their exploration, the group delved into the heart of the city to visit the Ancient Agora, a bustling hub of ancient Spartan life. As they wandered among the ruins, they envisioned the citizens of Sparta engaging in political debates, trading goods, and forging connections. This bustling agora evoked similarities with the marketplaces and gathering spaces of their own Montenegrin towns, reinforcing the idea that the human desire for community and connection remains universal.

The Archaeological Museum of Sparta proved to be a treasure trove of insights into the city's history. The Montenegrin tourists marveled at the intricate sculptures, pottery, and artifacts on display, drawing parallels to the archaeological findings that trace Montenegro's own past. This shared appreciation for preserving history and culture highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the two regions.

The highlight of the journey was undoubtedly the visit to the site of the Ancient Gymnasium. As the group explored the well-preserved ruins, they couldn't help but imagine young Spartans undergoing rigorous physical training and education. The connection between the ideals of discipline and strength observed in Sparta and the similar values cherished in Montenegrin culture became evident. It was a poignant reminder that the echoes of the past continue to shape the present.

After immersing themselves in Sparta's rich historical tapestry, the tourists ventured into the modern city center. The vibrant streets, bustling with activity, showcased the fusion of tradition and contemporary life. The Montenegrin visitors found themselves interacting with locals, sharing stories, and appreciating the warmth of Greek hospitality. Through these interactions, they realized that while times have changed, the essence of community and connection remains constant.

As the visit to Sparta came to an end, the group embarked on a day trip to the nearby village of Mistra. Here, amidst medieval architecture and stunning vistas, the travelers encountered a sense of timelessness that resonated deeply with Montenegro's own historical towns and landscapes. The bond between ancient and modern, woven through generations, connected the tourists to the heart of Greece's Peloponnese.

As they bid farewell to Sparta, the Montenegrin tourists carried back with them not only cherished memories but a profound understanding of the enduring ties between their homeland and the ancient city. The journey had illuminated the shared values, cultural threads, and historical legacies that continue to shape Montenegro's identity, reinforcing the notion that heritage knows no boundaries and that the past is a bridge to a united future.

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Greek settlements in Montenegro date back to the Classical period - here's a look

Ancient Greek settlements in Montenegro have a long and rich history, dating back to the Classical period of Greek civilization. In the Archaic and Classical periods, Greek colonies were established along the Adriatic coast, including in present-day Montenegro. These colonies were established by Greek city-states such as Corinth, and Syracuse and were primarily involved in trade and commerce.

Some of the major Greek city-states and their colonies in the area include:

Corcyra (modern-day Corfu), which founded colonies on the nearby coast of Epirus.
Syracuse, which founded colonies in southern Italy and Sicily.
Epidamnus (modern-day Durrës in Albania), which was founded by Corcyra and became a major trading center.
Apollonia (modern-day Fier in Albania), which was also founded by Corcyra and became an important center of trade and culture.
Dyrrachium (modern-day Durres in Albania), which was founded by Corinth and became an important port and commercial center.
Korkyra Melaina (modern-day Kotor in Montenegro), which was founded by the Corinthians in the 4th century BCE.

The Greek colonization of the area of today's Montenegro began in the 4th century BCE when the Corinthians founded Korkyra Melaina (modern-day Kotor) as a trading post and a strategic military base. The colony prospered and became an important center of trade, culture, and philosophy. Other Greek city-states, such as Apollonia and Dyrrachium, also established colonies in the region, and their influence can still be seen in the area's architecture and culture today.

The Greeks established several important settlements in Montenegro, including the city of Rhizon, one of the most important centers of the Illyrian kingdom and later became a Greek colony. Another important settlement was Olcinium, located near modern Ulcinj, a thriving center of trade and commerce in the ancient world.

Throughout the Hellenistic period, these settlements continued to thrive and expand, with new colonies established along the coast and in the region's interior. During the Roman period, many of these settlements were incorporated into the Roman Empire and became important centers of Roman civilization in the region.

Despite the influence of the Roman Empire and later the Slavic peoples, the Greek cultural legacy in Montenegro has endured to the present day. This is evident in the numerous ancient Greek sites, such as the remains of the city walls, temples, and public buildings, that can still be seen in many parts of Montenegro.

Overall, the history of ancient Greek settlements in Montenegro is a testament to the enduring influence of Greek civilization in the region and reflects the rich cultural heritage of this part of the world.

Here is a ilustrative list of some of the most significant ancient Greek sites in Montenegro:

• Rhizon - an ancient Greek colony and one of the most important centers of Illyrian culture.
• Olcinium - an ancient Greek settlement near modern-day Ulcinj, a thriving center of trade and commerce in the ancient world.
• Doclea - an ancient city founded in the 3rd century BCE and became an important center of Illyrian and later Roman culture.
• Kotor - an ancient city on the coast of Montenegro founded as a Greek colony in the 4th century BCE.
• Budva - a coastal town believed to have been founded as a Greek colony in the 5th century BCE and was known for its prosperity and rich cultural heritage.
• Stari Bar - a former settlement inhabited by the Illyrians and later by the Greeks and Romans.
• Podgorica - the modern-day capital of Montenegro, known in ancient times as Birziminium, was an important center of Illyrian culture.

These ancient Greek sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Montenegro and offer a window into the rich and diverse history of the region. Whether you are interested in ancient history, archaeology, or simply in exploring the beautiful landscapes and cultural heritage of this part of the world, these sites are well worth a visit. Additional detaiels on Greek history in Montenegro you may find at: https://herculean.wordpress.com/2019/08/16/the-hidden-greek-history-of-montenegro-its-in-the-balkans/

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Doclea was influenced by Greek culture during the Hellenistic period

Doclea was an ancient city in present-day Montenegro that played a significant role in the region's history. It was founded in the 3rd century BCE and became an important center of Illyrian and later Roman culture. It is believed to have been inhabited by a mix of Roman citizens, veterans, and local Illyrian tribes. As a Roman settlement, the town would have been home to a diverse population from different parts of the empire, including merchants, artisans, and administrative personnel.

During the Hellenistic period, the city of Doclea was influenced by Greek culture and commerce, with strong ties to the Greek city-states along the Adriatic coast. The Greeks established several colonies in the region, including Olcinium and Rhizon, which helped to spread Greek culture and influence throughout the region.

In the Roman period, Doclea became an important center of Roman civilization in the region, with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage. Doclea was an important center for the Roman province of Dalmatia. It was known for its prosperity and strategic location on the road connecting the Adriatic coast to the interior of the Balkans. The town was well-equipped with public buildings, such as bathhouses, temples, and administrative structures, reflecting its status as a significant center of Roman civilization in the region.

The population of Doclea would likely have spoken both Latin and the local Illyrian language, reflecting the cultural blending in the town. Overall, the inhabitants of Doclea would have been a diverse and cosmopolitan group shaped by the time's unique historical and cultural forces.

Despite the passage of time and the many changes that have taken place in the region, the legacy of Doclea and its rich cultural heritage can still be seen in the numerous ancient ruins and historical sites scattered throughout the area. These sites, including the remains of the city walls, public buildings, and temples, serve as a testament to the enduring influence of the ancient Greeks and the region's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, the history of Doclea is a fascinating chapter in present-day Montenegro's rich and diverse history.

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