The Abantians, A Proto-Greek Tribe of Thracian Origin
The Abantians, or Abantes, were a proto-Greek tribe of Thracian origin, known to have occupied the regions of Chalcis, Eretria, and Euboea, eventually expanding into the Peloponnese and Asia Minor. The origin of their name is linked to various figures named Abas, each with a different genealogy: Abas, the son of Poseidon; Abas, the son of Melampus; or Abas, the son of the Attic hero Alcon.
Proto-Greek area of settlement (2200/2100-1900 B.C.) suggested by Katona (2000), Sakellariou (2016, 1980, 1975) and Phylaktopoulos (1975)
According to myth, Abas was the first king of the Abantians. His son, Chalkodon, succeeded him as the second king but was slain by Amphitryon during a siege of Thebes. Chalkodon’s son, Elephenor, became the third king of the Abantes. Known for their warrior culture, the Abantians earned a reputation as fierce fighters and skilled spearmen. Homer recounts that they wore their hair short in the front and long in the back to prevent enemies from seizing it during battle.
The Abantes are mentioned in Homer’s Iliad for their role in the Trojan War, where they fought with a fleet of 40 ships led by Elephenor. Elephenor, remembered as one of Helen's suitors, was ultimately slain by the Trojan warrior Agenor. On their return from Troy, the Abantians were caught in a storm and driven to the Ceraunian promontory in Illyria. After wandering post-war, they eventually settled in Thesprotia.
Iloupersis (the fall of Troy), detail. Side A from an Attic red-figure kylix, ca. 490 BC. From Vulci, Italy. Brygos (potter, signed), Brygos Painter – Louvre Museum
Herodotus records that many Abantes from Euboea established colonies in Chios and Asia Minor. In his Histories (Books II and IV), he describes their conquests, which included various cities across ancient Greece, notably Chalcis, Eretria, and Euboea, as well as regions in the Peloponnese, Chios, and Asia Minor.
Pausanias adds that the Abantians sent a colony to Chios, which was later defeated, forcing survivors to flee. They also founded Thronium in Thesprotia, later called Abantis, though it was ultimately conquered by Apollonia with Corinth’s support.
Last update: November 5, 2024
DONATE Go to definitions: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
