Pityus
Pityus, also known as Pitzunda or Bichvint, is an ancient site located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea, at the base of the Caucasus mountains. It is recognized as the northernmost Greek settlement in the region and is situated in the historical tribal area of the Heniochi, within what is now the Abkhazian Autonomous Republic of Georgia. The settlement is believed to have been established around the sixth century BC, potentially originating from Miletus in Ionia, although its exact status as a Greek city or a trading hub related to the neighboring state of Colchis remains uncertain.
Archaeological finds indicate that Pityus was home to a Roman fortress and extramural settlement from the first century until after 500 AD. The site also features Byzantine churches adorned with mosaics, highlighting its historical significance. The evidence of destruction layers from various periods, particularly the third, fourth, and sixth centuries, suggests that Pityus faced ongoing threats from marauding tribes in the interior. This rich historical tapestry makes Pityus a point of interest for those exploring ancient settlements and their interactions with surrounding cultures.
Subject Terms
Pityus
Pityous (Pitzunda, Bichvint)
The northernmost Greek settlement on the eastern Euxine (Black) Sea coast at the foot of the Caucasus mountains, in the tribal area of the Heniochi (now part of the Abkhazian Autonomous Republic attached to Georgia, in the Soviet Union). Pityus may have been settled from Miletus in Ionia (western Asia Minor) in about the sixth century BC, but it is uncertain whether it was a Greek city (polis) or a trading market attached to the neighboring state of Colchis (qv).
A Roman fortress and extramural settlement dating from the first century until after 500 AD have come to light, in addition to Byzantine churches embellished with mosaics. Evidence of constant peril from tribes in the interior is provided by successive destruction levels of the third, fourth and sixth centuries.