Megara

Abstract Megara is located in the Megaris between Attica and the Peloponnese and is its principal city. The settlement is protected by mountains which almost surround the plain. South of the city the Geranian mountain range provides a natural barrier, and to the east more mountains hinder access to central Greece. The allegiances of Megara were of strategic importance during the Peloponnesian War in the fifth century BCE , as occupying the mountain passes obstructed invasion forces. There were three ports in the Megaris. Nisaia, on the Saronic Gulf, was closest to Megara. Pegai and Aigosthena were on the Corinthian Gulf, providing a trade link to Sicily and Italy. The island of Salamis was in Megara's territory during the Archaic period, until it was lost to Athens in the time of Solon.