Tairse, Tarse
Tarsus is a historic city in southeastern Turkey, along the Mediterranean coast.
It was the birthplace of Hermoine the Hermit, who lived in the time of Joseph of Arimathea. During Arthur’s days, it was part of the Roman Empire, and soldiers from Tarsus joined Emperor Lucius’s war against Arthur. It was ruled by Meleans.
Tarsus | 4th century BC – 9th century AD
Antiquity and Hellenistic Period | 4th – 1st century BC
Tarsus has ancient origins and is believed to have been settled as far back as the Neolithic period. It became a prominent city during the Hellenistic period, particularly under the rule of the Seleucid Empire. Tarsis was the birthplace of the famous Roman statesman and orator Cicero in 106 BC.
Roman Period | 1st century BC – 4th century AD
Tarsus came under Roman control and was elevated to the status of a Roman colony. The city thrived during this period, and it was known for its education and philosphical traditions.
Byzantine Period | 4th – 7th century
With the division of the Roman Empire, Tarsus became part of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire). The city continued to be an important center during the early Byzantine period, and it played a role in the spread of Christianity.
Sassanian Persian Invasions | 7th century
In the seventh century, Tarsus, like many other Byzantine cities, faced threats from the Sassanian Persian Empire. During this period, the region was subject to conflict and instability.
Arab Conquests | Late 7th century
Tarsus and the surrounding area fell to the Arab forces during the Islamic expansion in the late seventh century. The city’s history was significantly influenced by the Arab rule and the spread of Islam in the region.
Early Medieval Period | 8th – 9th centuries
Under Arab rule, Tarsus remained an important urban center. The city’s history during this period is marked by cultural and economic exchange between Arab, Byzantine, and other regional influences.
Sources
Vulgate Estoire del Saint Graal | 1220-1235
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470