Tetrapolis (Attica)

Tetrapolis (Attica) refers to a group of four villages or demes in ancient Attica (Greece) that formed a small league or administrative unit. These four demes were Oinoe, Marathon, Probalinthos, and Tricorythus. The Tetrapolis held a position of some importance in the region, although details about its exact function and political power are scarce. It primarily appears in historical records relating to military and religious affairs.

The region of the Tetrapolis was significant due to its location. It occupied the northeastern part of Attica, controlling access to the plain of Marathon. This made the Tetrapolis strategically important, as it was vulnerable to invasion from Euboea and other northern regions.

The area around Marathon, included within the Tetrapolis, is famously known as the site of the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC, where the Athenian army, aided by Plataeans, defeated the invading Persian forces. While the battle itself was not solely a 'Tetrapolis affair,' the region's importance to Athens is underscored by this pivotal event.

The Tetrapolis also had some religious significance, indicated by the worship of specific deities within the region. Unfortunately, detailed information about specific cults and rituals is limited.

While the Tetrapolis maintained a degree of regional identity and administrative cohesion, it was ultimately incorporated into the larger Athenian state and its political structure. The deme system itself was a fundamental part of Athenian democracy, and the Tetrapolis operated within this framework.