v49_0143 - THRACE - THRACIAN ISLANDS - SAMOTHRACE Unité, (PB, Æ 18)

THRACE - THRACIAN ISLANDS - SAMOTHRACE

(4th - 1st century BC)

Samothrace finds its origin, like many islands in Mythology, with Dardanos and Idaios, Phrygians who found refuge on the island. Founded by Samian exiles in the early years of the 7th century BC. It was occupied by the Persians following the Ionian revolt. The island was part of the Attico-Delian league from its foundation. After the fall of Athens in 404 BC, it passed into Spartan hands before returning to those of Athens at the time of the Corinthian War. It joined the second Thalassocracy in the early 370s BC. It was a famous place of worship which was enriched by the kings of Macedonia, Philip II, Alexander III, then their successors. The island then passed under Lagid domination until the naval battle of Keos in 258 BC. It received the attentive care of Philippe V, then of Perseus. The island dedicated to cults and mysteries, in particular that of Cybele experienced significant development under Roman rule. However the island was attacked and looted by pirates in 84 BC..