Learning About Ancient Corinth

[knicks_fan87]

I’m hoping to visit the ruins of Ancient Corinth on a future trip to Greece, and I’d like to learn more about the history before I go. I always find that I appreciate archaeological sites more when I understand what I’m looking at and know some of the stories behind the ruins.

For those who have visited Ancient Corinth, what would you recommend learning about beforehand? Are there particular periods of the city’s history, important events, or historical figures that help put the site into context? I know Corinth had an important location and a long history, but I’d like to understand more about how the city developed and changed over time.

I’d also love recommendations for books, documentaries, podcasts, or other resources that give a good introduction to Ancient Corinth. What helped you understand the site and its history before or after your visit?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I would definitely read a little about Corinth’s importance as a trading city before you go. Its location near the Isthmus of Corinth explains so much about why the city became wealthy and influential. It is also helpful to understand the difference between ancient Greek Corinth and the later Roman city, since much of what you see at the archaeological site reflects the Roman period.

I would also learn about the Temple of Apollo, the Roman agora, and the Fountain of Peirene beforehand. If you are interested in early Christianity, reading about the Apostle Paul’s time in Corinth adds another layer to the visit and makes some of the ruins feel much more meaningful.

For resources, I would look for a general history of Ancient Corinth first, then something specifically about Roman Corinth. Even a good museum guide or archaeological-site overview can help tremendously before visiting.