Expert: Maria - 2/2/2010

Question
Can you tell me all the geographical features of Ancient Athens? How did the location and resources affect their economy/money?
Thank you!

Answer
Hello,

It is obvious that the geographical features of ancient Athens had a great influence on its economy, trade, growth.

In fact Athens was located in a coastal plain on the mainland of Greece, in a transition area between the Mediterranean and Alpine climate, not so far from its natural harbour of Piraeus on the Saronic Gulf in eastern Greece, and from Pentelicus mountain famous for its marble, which was used for the construction of the Acropolis and other buildings of ancient Athens.

So, by 450 BC, led by Pericles, Athens was at the height of its commercial prosperity, thanks to its  port, Piraeus, which  lies on Phaleron Bay, and also at the height of its cultural and political dominance.

Regards,
Maria