ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Year 560 BC: A Time of Significance in History

The year 560 BC marked a pivotal moment in history, with significant events unfolding across various regions. In ancient Greece, the city-state of Athens was experiencing a period of turmoil, as an aristocrat named Pisistratus seized control of the Acropolis and declared himself tyrant.

The Rise of Tyranny in Athens

Pisistratus's ascension to power led to a shift in the balance of power within Athens. His family, the Eupatrides, would go on to play a crucial role in Athenian politics for generations to come. Meanwhile, the statue known as The Calf Bearer (Moschophoros), from the Acropolis, was completed during this period.

International Relations and Conflict

In the eastern Mediterranean, Pharaoh Amasis II of Egypt faced challenges from neighboring powers. In 567 BCE, he defeated a coalition of Babylonian forces led by former pharaoh Apries, who had invaded Egypt with Babylonian help. This victory solidified Amasis's position as Pharaoh of Lower Egypt and marked an important turning point in Egyptian history.

The Rise of the Phoenicians

In the western Mediterranean, the Phoenician city-state of Tyre was experiencing a period of growth and expansion. In 560 BCE, Neriglissar succeeded Nebuchadnezzar II as king of Babylon, marking a significant shift in power dynamics between these two ancient civilizations.

The Greek Coinage Revolution

Around this time, the first Greek coins were introduced from Sicily to Selinonte and Himer. This marked an important milestone in the development of currency systems across the Mediterranean world.

Conflict in Greece and Cyprus

In 570 BCE, Phalaris seized power in Agrigente, Sicily, overthrowing the oligarchy and establishing a tyrannical rule that would last until 554 BC. Meanwhile, King Battos II of Cyrene faced challenges from Libyan tribesmen who appealed to Pharaoh Amasis II for help against Greek settlers.

The Conquest of Cyprus

In 568-567 B.C., Pharaoh Amasis seized the island of Cyprus, marking an important expansion of Egyptian influence in the eastern Mediterranean. This conquest would have significant long-term implications for the region's politics and trade patterns.

Cultural Developments

During this period, Siddhartha Gautama was born in Lumbini, Nepal, marking the beginning