Ultimative Antiquity weapons: mystical Greek fire
Although the exact recipe of the mixture still remains a mystery, historians believe that they have managed to reveal some incredible practical ways of using this mysterious ancient weapon, Ancient Origins write. In focus, technology appeared its Telegram channel. Subscribe to not miss the most info and interesting news from the world of science! Developed by the Byzantine Empire in the 7th century, Greek fire became a real breakthrough in the Sea War.
Although the exact origin of the Greek fire is unknown, many believe that it has invented a Syrian engineer named Callinikos. Unfortunately, there is little about the Callininikos and his life path. However, it is suggested that Callinicos brought his invention to the Byzantine emperor somewhere in the 7th century, which led to his widespread use for political and military purposes.
Those who do not believe the history of the Callinicos say that the recipe for Greek fire was a secret that was carefully guarded and passed on from generation to generation by Byzantine warlords and scientists. Let it be there, the power of the Greek fire was indisputable. Records indicate that it contained a powerful mixture of oil, lime and other unknown ingredients. It is believed that this combination has made it one of the most flammable and dangerous substances of its time.
With this weapon, the Byzantines could reflect the attacks of the invaders, as well as hold positions during the siege of their capital, Constantinople. Despite the final decline, the legacy of Greek fire lived as a symbol of Byzantine ingenuity and technological perfection. The influence of these weapons on the course of history cannot be overestimated, as it played a key role in the defense of Constantinople and the preservation of the Byzantine Empire.
As mentioned earlier, the exact composition of the Greek fire remains a mystery to this day. As mysterious as its origin, the recipe for Greek fire was carefully guarded and was lost over time. However, there are some assumptions about the additional chemicals used to produce these weapons. Some historical sources suggest that the Greek fire included nitrate, oil and sulfur.
It would make sense because sulfur, in particular, was widely used by Greeks for various purposes, including fumigation, medicine and weapons production. Sulfur was also sometimes used throughout Europe to produce pyrotechnics, for example, for ancient Roman circuses, so its use in the creation of Greek fire is very likely. Other sources mention the use of a vacant lime, which is a highly reactive form of calcium oxide, which can cause self -ignition.
It is believed that the exact combination of these ingredients made the Greek fire flammable, and it was difficult to extinguish. Despite many theories about the composition of Greek fire, the exact recipe remains unknown. Today, the exact properties of Greek fire remain the subject of speculation and is the subject of acute discussions among historians and scientists. Due to its widespread efficiency, Greek fire was used mainly in the maritime and siege war.
In naval battles, it was often used as a flamethrower aimed at enemy ships, setting them on fire with a chemical flame, which was almost impossible to extinguish. During the defense of Constantinople by the Byzantine Empire from the Arab and Persian invaders, the use of Greek fire created a fire wall around the city, through which the enemy was difficult to penetrate. When the enemies were besieged by the city and the fortress, Greek fire was used to protect the walls and attack on opponents.
These weapons were especially useful for protection against enemy soldiers who tried to climb the walls, as it could be directed and set on fire. In addition, Greek fire was also used for a psychological war, since the appearance and sound of weapons itself intimidated by enemy soldiers. The enemies, which were close enough, faced the direct anger of the Greek fire, while those who were a little further were afraid to come closer.
Powerful weapons attracted the attention of the Venetians, who were intrigued by its terrifying effects. Through trade and military interaction with Byzantium, the Venetians learned everything they could about Greek fire, and soon decided to make their own version. However, the Venetians not only copied the Byzantine invention. They modified it, creating their version of weapons to make it even more devastating in the Marine War.
They installed this weapon on their ships, and it became a terrible sight. The flames of Greek fire sticking to enemy ships, causing chaos and confusion on the deck. When the flames were thrown to other ships, the hostile fleet turned into a burning mass, unable to maneuver nor escape. The Venetians quickly realized that Greek fire can change the course of their conflicts with the Ottomans.
They used this weapon in several key naval battles, including the Battle of Androos in 1303 and the Battle of Hallypol in 1416. The Ottoman fleet suffered great casualties in these battles, and the Venetians were winning, with Greek fire playing a decisive role. Although not all is known about Greek fire, historians have done a great job by revealing some of the most interesting ways to use it throughout history.