War Museum 4: The Western World

The long history of Greece has not only seen striking developments in military technology, but also lots of influx from the rest of Europe.

Greek warriors (especially Spartans) were famous for their strength and courage, while the Athenians were also adept at naval warfare. Not in a usual wall of shields, but in wild infighting are these hoplites depicted here.

From Byzantine times, the Greek Fire is well remembered and feared: The ingredients and fabrication process of this terrible chemical weapon are unknown, but its effects as a medieval flamethrower have remained famous in history: Whole fleets of enemy ships have been destroyed by it, and no water could stop it ... in fact, the liquid even burned on the water! But the exact material is lost in the depths of history.

Since the Franks and other Crusaders have played their part in raiding Greece (Byzantium) unfortunately in the 3rd Crusade, here is a collection of swords, maces and shields from Maltese, Habsburg, Norman and German soldiers (as you can see on their shields).

That's it - enough war and weapons! Exiting the museum, we had a nice view on the Acropolis and left Athens for the plain of Marathon ... read my next  post!

Photo gallery