Perioikoi

Perioikoi

Meanings: Dwellers Around" or "Those on the periphery" or "Surrounding (peri) Householders (oikoi)"
Their villages served as a wall or 'buffer zone' against escaping Helots.
Autonomous (self-governing) in their own communities.
1. Had local citizenship
2. Owed allegiance to Sparta and ultimately were under Spartan control
Weren't permitted to intermarry with Spartiates
Those along the coastline were fishermen, ship builders and the best sailors in the navy.
If involved in a case with a Spartiate, were brought before the Ephors for trial
Spartan Kings' revenue came from their estates in the lands of the Perioikoi
All adult male Perioikoi expected to serve as hoplites alongside Spartiates, although not involved in training
Chief contribution to the Spartans was economic - engaged in trade and industry
Had no share in formulating Spartan policy
Dorian in origin. Lived in approx. 100 scattered communities in the area controlled by Sparta.
SOURCES
1. Plutarch, On Sparta: "Lycurgus distributed the rest of Lakonia to the perioikoi in 30,000 lots"
2. Many archaeological sources as Perioikoi made up most craftsmen
  1. Bronze figure of Hermes
  2. Limestone funery relief from 5th Century at Petrina
Other roles
1. Craftsmen of Pottery: Lakonian cups popular
2. Manufacturers of furniture, houses, cloth , weapons and armour
3. Fishermen And shipbuilders who lived at port of Gythion
4. Miners and metalworkers Bronzes

Resource summary

	Created by Elizabeth Clifford over 11 years ago