Siege of Potidaea: What Happened
The Siege of Potidaea, from 432 to 430 BC, was one of the key events that led to the Peloponnesian War. Potidaea was a city on the Chalkidiki peninsula in northern Greece. It paid tribute to Athens as a member of the Delian League, but it had been founded by Corinth and still kept close ties with its mother city. When Athens, fearing a revolt, ordered Potidaea to tear down part of its walls and send away its Corinthian magistrates, the city rebelled with support from Corinth. Athens sent an army that defeated a Corinthian force outside the city and then surrounded Potidaea with siege walls. Among the Athenian soldiers were the philosopher Socrates and the young Alcibiades, and Socrates is said to have saved Alcibiades' life in battle. The siege dragged on for more than two years and cost Athens a fortune, as the defenders were starved into eating their own dead. Potidaea surrendered in the winter of 430 to 429 BC. Corinth's anger over the siege helped push Sparta into war with Athens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Siege of Potidaea?
The Siege of Potidaea, from 432 to 430 BC, was an Athenian siege of a rebellious city on the Chalkidiki peninsula. It was one of the key events that led to the Peloponnesian War.
Why did Potidaea rebel against Athens?
Potidaea was a Delian League member but a colony of Corinth. When Athens demanded it tear down walls and expel its Corinthian magistrates, it rebelled with Corinthian support.
Did Socrates fight at Potidaea?
Yes. The philosopher Socrates served as a soldier at Potidaea, and according to Plato, he saved the life of the young Alcibiades during the fighting.
How did the Siege of Potidaea end?
After more than two years, the starving defenders surrendered in the winter of 430 to 429 BC. The siege cost Athens a huge amount of money.
Where is Potidaea today?
The site of ancient Potidaea is at the modern village of Nea Poteidaia in Chalkidiki, where the canal cutting through the Kassandra peninsula follows its ancient isthmus.
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