Carthage

About

Ancient Carthage was a powerful Phoenician city-state founded around 814 BC on the coast of North Africa, now modern-day Tunisia. It emerged as a major trading hub in the Mediterranean, leveraging its strategic location to control maritime trade routes between Africa, Asia, and Europe. Carthage's prosperity was built on a robust navy and extensive trade networks, facilitating the exchange of goods like purple dye from Tyre, frankincense from Arabia, and metals from Spain. The city's influence extended across North Africa, Sicily, Sardinia, and parts of Spain. Carthage's significance went beyond trade; it was a major cultural and military power. The city was known for its sophisticated urban planning, featuring large harbors and impressive walls. Carthage's military prowess was exemplified by its conflicts with Rome, notably the Punic Wars. Despite its eventual destruction by Rome in 146 BC, Carthage left a lasting legacy in the Mediterranean region. Its strategic focus on maritime trade and commerce distinguished it from other ancient powers like Rome, which emphasized territorial expansion. This unique approach to empire-building shaped the course of ancient history and left Carthage remembered as one of the most influential cities of the ancient world.