Trachis

Trachis (Ancient Greek: Τραχίς) was an ancient Greek city located in southern Thessaly, near the Malian Gulf. It was situated at the foot of Mount Oeta, commanding a strategically important pass leading south into central Greece.

Trachis played a significant role in Greek history, particularly during the Greco-Persian Wars. It was near Trachis that the Battle of Thermopylae took place, where the Spartan King Leonidas and his small force of hoplites made their famous stand against the much larger Persian army of Xerxes I. While the Greeks ultimately lost the battle, their heroic resistance at Thermopylae significantly delayed the Persian advance.

The city of Trachis was originally inhabited by the Malian people. Later, it became part of the Thessalian League. After the Battle of Thermopylae, the Persians sacked and destroyed Trachis. The city was later rebuilt and continued to exist into Roman times.

In Greek mythology, Trachis is associated with Heracles (Hercules). He is said to have spent a considerable amount of time in Trachis, and it was from here that his wife, Deianira, sent him the poisoned shirt that ultimately led to his death. Sophocles' play The Women of Trachis is based on this myth.

Today, the ruins of Trachis are located near the modern town of Rachia. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of the ancient city, including sections of its walls and foundations of buildings. The site offers valuable insights into the history and culture of ancient Thessaly.