Ancient Greece - Peloponnesian War

Though the Sacred Band of Thebes was not formally established until later, Thebes had elite warriors and specialized military training areas during this period. Men were trained rigorously, often in pairs or small units, a precursor to the famed Sacred Band. The training grounds were essential for honing Theban military prowess, which played a major role in their contributions to the Peloponnesian War.

Open training fields surrounded by rugged hills, with warriors sparring in pairs under the watchful eyes of seasoned mentors, banners fluttering in the wind, and the sun setting behind distant mountains.