Battle of Artemisium: What Happened
In August 480 BC, while the Spartans held the pass at Thermopylae, the Greek fleet fought the Persian navy in the straits off Cape Artemisium, at the northern tip of the island of Euboea. The two battles were part of a single plan to stop the Persian advance by land and sea at the same point. The Greek fleet of around 270 ships, with Athens providing the largest share, was commanded by the Spartan Eurybiades, with Themistocles leading the Athenians. The Persians had many more ships, but before the fighting began, a storm wrecked a large part of their fleet off the coast. Over three days of fighting, the Greeks held their own and inflicted heavy losses, though they suffered badly too. When news arrived that Thermopylae had fallen, the Greek fleet withdrew south to the island of Salamis. Artemisium was indecisive, but it gave the Greek crews valuable experience against the Persian navy and proved they could stand up to it. That confidence mattered weeks later, at the decisive Battle of Salamis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Battle of Artemisium?
The Battle of Artemisium was a naval battle in August 480 BC between the Greek fleet and the Persian navy off northern Euboea, fought at the same time as the land battle at Thermopylae.
Who won the Battle of Artemisium?
The battle was indecisive. The Greeks inflicted heavy losses and held their own, but withdrew south to Salamis after learning that Thermopylae had fallen.
Why was Artemisium important?
It gave the Greek crews valuable experience fighting the Persian navy and proved they could stand up to it. That confidence helped them win the decisive Battle of Salamis weeks later.
What happened to the Persian fleet before Artemisium?
Before the fighting began, a violent storm wrecked a large part of the Persian fleet off the coast of Greece, reducing its advantage in numbers.
What is the Artemision Bronze?
The Artemision Bronze is a famous bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon found in a shipwreck off Cape Artemisium in the 1920s. It is displayed at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
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