The Role of Travel in the Greek Economy

Travel was widespread throughout Greek history, whether it be travel for leisure, political participation, religious devotion, or commerce. From the 8th century BC onwards, traders had regular contact with non-Greeks, such as Phoenicians and Egyptians. Many Greeks made long journeys at some point in their lives in order to attend a Panhellenic festival, consult an oracle, or visit a healing sanctuary. There were in fact no roads for wheeled traffic, over long distances anywhere in the Greek world,. nor indeed was there any motivation to connect separate communities like Pylos and Sparta., which are separated by the Tygetis Mountains.