Issa
Issa, an ancient Greek settlement located on an island off the coast of Dalmatia, played a significant role in the maritime history of the Adriatic Sea. Initially colonized by Dionysius I of Syracuse in the 4th century BC, Issa expanded its influence by founding nearby towns such as Tragurium (modern Trogir) and Epetium (modern Stobreč). During its height, Issa dominated trade in the region but faced challenges from the Illyrian queen Teuta, who sought to control Greek harbor towns. The city was besieged by Teuta around 230 BC but was subsequently taken over by a Roman fleet, which diminished Teuta's power.
In the political turmoil of the late Republic, Issa aligned itself with Pompey during the civil war against Julius Caesar, resulting in punitive measures that made it dependent on the Roman colony at Salonae (Solin) after Caesar's victory. Archaeological findings from recent excavations at Issa reveal significant remnants of its past, including an amphitheater, baths, and Hellenistic walls, offering insights into its cultural and historical importance in the region. This blend of Greek and Roman influences highlights Issa's multifaceted legacy in the context of ancient Mediterranean civilizations.
Subject Terms
Issa
(Vis)
An island (with a town of the same name) off the coast of Dalmatia (Yugoslavia). After coming into the hands of the Liburnians (famous seafarers), it was colonized by Dionysius I of Syracuse (406–367 BC), as part of his plan to control the Adriatic (Ionian) Sea. The large bronze coins of the local mint, imitating the products of various Sicilian cities, date from this period.
During the third century Issa founded Tragurium (Trogir) and Epetium (Stobreč) on the mainland, and dominated the entire region. But this position brought it into conflict with the rising power of the Illyrian queen Teuta, who besieged the city as part of a bid to reduce all the Greek harbor-towns on the Adriatic (230). In the following year, however, a Roman fleet took Issa over, and Teuta was reduced to tributary status. In the civil war between Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar (49–48), the Issans sided with the former and their city was penalized by the victorious Caesar, becoming a dependency of the new Roman colony at Salonae (Solin). As a result of recent excavations, the remains that can now be seen include an amphitheater, baths, and a Hellenistic wall and necropolis.