Circa 400-340 BCE
AR stater/nomos 22mm, 7.3g
Head of Demeter to left
Rev. METAΠΟNTIΩN Barley ear with leaf to right; above leaf, ivy leaf
HN Italy 1545. Noe 524. SNG ANS 391
Metapontion was the first ancient ruins I visited after I became truly interested in ancient ruins, which is when I started collecting ancient coins. It was on the way during a visit to Puglia and Basilicata. We only visited the Temple of Hera, since there wasn’t an easy way to see the rest.
When Alexander I entered Italy, Metapontion initially supported him against the Lucanians and Bruttians.
Metapontion is founded by settlers from Achaia.
Timoleon lands at Metapontion on his quest in Sicily.
Metapontion signs an alliance with Alexander I Molossos.
The remains of Alexander I Molossos are interred at Metapontion.
Metapontion allies itself with Hannibal.
August 22
The author of this page visits Metapontion by telling his traveling companions that the site is on the way, even though it is not.