Interactive Map: Persian Wars, 490 B.C.E. - 479 B.C.E

Marathon

In retaliation for Athens' role in aiding Ionian Greeks during a Persian invasion, the mighty Persian army invaded Marathon in 490 B.C.E. Despite being outnumbered, the Athenians successfully defended their land, forcing the Persians to retreat. This relief illustrates a scene from the battle at Marathon.

Thermopylae

In 480 B.C.E., the Persian army set out to invade Greece once again. This time, the Athenians convinced other city-states to joining the fight. When the Persians landed near Thermopylae, the Spartan army was there to guard the narrow mountain pass. The Spartans held out heroically but were ultimately defeated by the Persians.

Athens

The Greek city-state of Athens was burned by the Persians when they defeated the Spartan army at Thermopylae. The Athenians, however, had already retreated to safety. The Greeks later defeated the Persian army in Asia Minor, marking the end of the Persian invasions.

Sparta

Although the Greek city-states often fought one another, Athens eventually formed an alliance with the militaristic Sparta to fight the Persian army.

Sardis

Angry at Athens for supporting the Ionian Greeks in their rebellion, Darius the first sent a huge force to attack Athens. The Persian army originated in Sardis and traveled along the Greek coastline on route to Athens.

Salamis

Safely on ships, the Athenians lured the Persian navy into the narrow strait of Salamis. The Athenian warships then used underwater battering rams to destroy the Persian ships and sink the enemy fleet.