Metapontions

Metapontions was an ancient Greek colony located in Magna Graecia, southern Italy, on the Ionian Sea coast. It was founded by Achaeans from Sybaris, likely in the late 7th century BCE. Situated in a fertile region, Metapontions quickly prospered as an agricultural center and a significant trading port. The city was known for its rich lands that produced grain, wool, and olive oil.

The city's most famous resident was the philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, who, along with his followers, the Pythagoreans, established a strong presence in Metapontions. The Pythagorean school significantly influenced the city's intellectual and religious life. Metapontions was also renowned for its religious cults, particularly that of Demeter, with whom the city minted coins depicting the goddess.

Throughout its history, Metapontions experienced periods of alliance and conflict with other Greek city-states, as well as with indigenous Italic peoples. It played a role in the Pyrrhic War, siding with Pyrrhus of Epirus against the Romans. Later, the city fell under Roman control. Today, the archaeological site of Metapontions, near the modern town of Metaponto, reveals the remains of its temples, public buildings, and defensive walls, offering valuable insights into the life and culture of this important ancient settlement.