Ancient Rome - Third Samnite War 298 bce

The Gulf’s waters are bustling with ships transporting precious goods, including grain, wine, and pottery, connecting to Greek colonies, southern Italy, and the eastern Mediterranean. This vital trade network is a lifeline for Rome, enabling not only access to essential resources but also strengthening alliances while standing as a point of contention with Greek and Samnite forces. Historically, control of these routes played a crucial role in securing dominance during the Third Samnite War.

A sprawling vista of the Ionian Sea dotted with various merchant ships laden with colorful sails, navigating through shimmering waters under a bright sun, with distant coastal towns visible along the shoreline.