Hexamilion Justinian Wall: A Fragment of History

The Hexamilion Wall, also known as the Justinian Wall, represents a significant chapter in the defense of the Peloponnese. Built across the Isthmus of Corinth, this formidable structure aimed to guard the peninsula from northern invaders. Construction of the wall began between 408 and 450 AD during the reign of Theodosius II, spurred by barbarian incursions into the Roman Empire. The wall's strategic importance was evident from the start, with many Peloponnesian cities advocating for its defense during Xerxes' invasion in 480 BC. The wall was approximately 7.5 kilometers long and 3 meters wide, featuring quadrilateral towers at intervals. It stretched from the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Gulf, utilizing the natural rock formations for its foundation. Over the centuries, the Hexamilion Wall underwent several phases of use, including repairs and reinforcements by Byzantine emperors like Justinian and Manuel II Palaiologos. Justinian's reign saw the addition of more towers, bringing the total to 153. Despite these efforts, the wall faced numerous breaches, particularly during Ottoman invasions. In 1415, Manuel II personally oversaw repairs, but the Ottomans breached it in 1423 and again in 1431. The wall was briefly restored, but fell again in 1446. After the Ottoman conquest of the Peloponnese in 1460, the wall was abandoned. Today, only a small section of the Hexamilion Wall remains, located about 2 kilometers from the Corinthian Isthmus along the old national highway. Visitors can explore these remnants and imagine the wall's former grandeur and strategic importance.