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At the heart of ancient trade was Carthage, a port city founded by settlers from the Phoenician city of Tyre around the 9th century BC. Known for its formidable navy and maritime prowess, Carthage quickly emerged as a dominant player in Mediterranean commerce. Carthage controlled trade routes, facilitated cultural exchanges, and introduced key innovations in shipbuilding that significantly impacted naval warfare.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Carthaginian culture is their legacy of trade. The Carthaginians established far-reaching networks connecting lands in Europe, North Africa, and the Near East. From silver and salted fish in southern Spain to exotic goods from sub-Saharan Africa—including gold, ivory, and textiles—Carthage was the crossroads of the ancient world.