Syracuse (Hannibal at the Gates)

Classical Heritage: +2 to cultural conversion
Fierce Independence: +10% melee defence for all units during battles in own or allied territory

Description

Syracuse is no stranger to war, fiercely championing its independence throughout its long, bloody history. A string of tyrannical leaders dominate that history, defending Syracusan sovereignty against fellow Greeks, Carthaginians and threats from within through a series of treacherous and gruelling wars. In spite of these trials, it has become renowned throughout the ancient world as a centre for culture and science: as home to a great theatre and inventors such as Archimedes, who resides there currently. Syracuse is also a wealthy state, profiting from its prime position in the central Mediterranean.

Despite this, there are still those who would see the Syracusans brought to heel; both Rome and Carthage have reasons to mistrust them. Although the tyrant Hiero II aided Carthage against Rome in the opening stages of their first war, he later made peace with the Romans, entering into an alliance that is still in place to this day. However, Rome wishes to extend its domination to the whole of the Italian peninsula, including the island of Sicily on which Syracuse sits. Ultimately, either regional superpower would like to count Syracuse amongst its possessions. And, now that Carthage and Rome are at war once again, it stands on a precipice between them; will the alliance with Rome hold true, or will Syracuse forge its own destiny?

Other Dynasties

This body serves as advisors to the tyrant of Syracuse, drawn from among its citizens. They also serve as a council of magistrates.

Deinomenid Dynasty

Originally from the island of Telos in the Aegean Sea, the rulers of Syracuse are tyrants descended from a long line of tyrants before them.
  • Flowering Culture: +20% wealth from culture
  • Power Struggle: +10% corruption in your provinces
  • Archimedes' Eureka: +10% research rate
Starting Region(s)
Syracuse