Roman Greece: Greece Under the Roman Empire
From the sack of Corinth to the founding of Constantinople, Greece became part of the Roman world while shaping Rome's culture. Explore its battles, emperors and the arrival of Christianity.
Key Events of Roman Greece
The Story of Roman Greece
Roman Greece began in 146 BC, when Rome crushed the Achaean League and destroyed the city of Corinth. Greece became part of the Roman world, and in 27 BC Augustus created the province of Achaea. The early years were turbulent. Athens sided with Mithridates of Pontus against Rome and was sacked by Sulla in 86 BC, and several decisive battles of Rome's civil wars were fought on Greek soil, including Pharsalus, Philippi and Actium. Under the peace of the empire that followed, Greece recovered. Rome admired Greek culture, and wealthy Romans studied in Athens, while emperors such as Hadrian lavished the city with new buildings. Christianity also arrived early, as the Apostle Paul preached in Athens and Corinth, and the Book of Revelation was written on Patmos. Greek scholars such as Ptolemy continued to lead the sciences. In the 3rd century AD, invasions by the Goths and Heruli brought destruction, including the sack of Athens in 267 AD.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Greece become part of the Roman Empire?
Rome took control of Greece in 146 BC, after defeating the Achaean League and destroying Corinth. The province of Achaea was created in 27 BC.
How did the Romans treat Greek culture?
The Romans admired Greek culture. Wealthy Romans studied in Athens and spoke Greek, and Roman art, philosophy and literature borrowed heavily from Greece.
Which Roman battles were fought in Greece?
Several decisive battles of Rome's civil wars were fought in Greece, including Pharsalus in 48 BC, Philippi in 42 BC and the naval Battle of Actium in 31 BC.
How did Christianity come to Greece?
The Apostle Paul brought Christianity to Greece around 50 AD, preaching in Philippi, Thessaloniki, Athens and Corinth and founding some of the earliest churches.
What happened to Athens under Roman rule?
Athens was sacked by Sulla in 86 BC but later flourished as a center of learning. Emperor Hadrian built a library, an arch and completed the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Explore Other Eras of Greek History
