Settlements > Cotyora

Cotyora

Cotyora (Κοτύωρα) was an ancient Greek settlement located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, in what is now modern-day Ordu in Turkey. Here are some key aspects of Cotyora:

Geographic and Historical Context

1. Location: Cotyora was situated on the southern coast of the Black Sea, in the region historically known as Pontus. The site corresponds to modern-day Ordu in Turkey.

2. Foundation: Cotyora was founded as a colony by the Greeks from Sinope, a major Greek city on the Black Sea coast. Sinope itself was a colony of Miletus, one of the most significant Greek city-states.

Historical Significance

1. Greek Colonization: Cotyora was part of the Greek colonization movement along the Black Sea, which saw the establishment of numerous Greek settlements in the region. These colonies facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of Greek influence.

2. Xenophon's Anabasis: Cotyora is prominently mentioned in "Anabasis," a work by the ancient Greek historian Xenophon. The book recounts the journey of the Ten Thousand, a Greek mercenary army, during their retreat from Persia. Cotyora served as a significant stop for the army as they made their way back to Greece.

3. Trade and Economy: The settlement played a role in the regional economy as part of a network of Greek colonies along the Black Sea. It was involved in trade, particularly in goods such as grain, fish, timber, and other resources from the hinterlands of Pontus.

Cultural and Religious Aspects

1. Greek Culture: As a Greek colony, Cotyora would have been a center of Greek culture, language, and religion. The inhabitants practiced Greek customs and worshipped Greek gods, integrating these with local traditions.

2. Local Integration: Like many Greek colonies, Cotyora likely had interactions with indigenous peoples, leading to a blend of Greek and local cultures. This integration could be seen in various aspects of daily life, including religious practices, art, and commerce.

Archaeological Evidence

1. Remnants and Excavations: Archaeological excavations in the area of modern-day Ordu may uncover remnants of Cotyora, providing insights into the settlement's layout, architecture, and daily life. However, detailed archaeological information specifically about Cotyora is limited compared to more prominent ancient cities.

Summary

Cotyora was an ancient Greek settlement located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, in the region known as Pontus, corresponding to modern-day Ordu in Turkey. Founded as a colony of Sinope, Cotyora played a role in the Greek colonization of the Black Sea, serving as a trading hub and cultural center. It is historically significant for its mention in Xenophon's "Anabasis" and its participation in the regional economy and cultural exchange. Further archaeological investigations may provide more detailed insights into its history and significance.

Sources

Xenophon mentions the town (Anabasis V.5.3f), as does Strabo much later (XII.3.17).

Arrian, in his 131 CE guidebook Periplus of the Euxine Sea, describes it as a village "and not a large one."