The Long Walls of Athens

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The Long Walls of Athens were a crucial defensive system in ancient Greece, connecting the city of Athens to its ports at Piraeus and Phaleron. Built in the mid-5th century BC, these walls were a strategic response to the threat of land-based sieges, ensuring Athens remained linked to the sea and its naval resources. The walls were approximately six kilometers long and featured stone foundations topped with mudbrick structures, gates, towers, and walkways. This system allowed Athens to maintain supply lines and protect its population during times of conflict. The Long Walls played a pivotal role in Athenian military strategy, particularly during the Peloponnesian War. They enabled Athens to withstand sieges by allowing the city to receive supplies via the sea. However, after Athens' defeat in 404 BC, the walls were destroyed by the Spartans. They were later rebuilt with Persian support during the Corinthian War. The walls remained significant until they were destroyed again by the Roman general Sulla in 86 BC. Despite their eventual decline, the Long Walls remain a testament to ancient Athens' resilience and strategic ingenuity.