Pontic Greeks facts for kids
| Έλληνες του Πόντου (Ρωμιοί) | |
|---|---|
One of the Pontic flags
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| Total population | |
| c. 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Greece, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Armenia, Cyprus, Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Germany, United States, Uzbekistan, Australia, Canada, Syria, Romania, Bulgaria, Egypt | |
| Languages | |
| Predominantly Modern and Pontian Greek. Also the languages of their respective countries of residence (Those include Russian, Turkish, Georgian and Urum language) | |
| Religion | |
| Greek Orthodox Christianity, Russian Orthodox Christianity, Sunni Islam (Mostly in Turkey) |
The Pontic Greeks, also known as Pontian Greeks, are a group of people with Greek heritage. They traditionally lived in a region called Pontus. This area is in northeastern Anatolia, near the Black Sea and the Pontic Mountains.
Over many years, some Pontic Greeks moved to other places. They went to parts of Eastern Anatolia, and to areas that were once part of Russia, like Kars Oblast and Georgia. These moves happened between 1461 and 1829.
Pontic Greeks have a special Pontic Greek dialect. This language is a unique form of the standard Greek language. Because Pontus was a bit isolated, their language developed differently. Pontic Greeks lived in the Pontus region (now northeastern Turkey), Georgia, and Eastern Anatolia for a very long time, from at least 700 BC until 1922.
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Who are the Pontic Greeks?
The Pontic Greeks are a distinct group of people. They share a common history and culture. Their ancestors were ancient Greeks. They lived in the Pontus region for thousands of years. This region is on the southern coast of the Black Sea.
Where did they live?
The Pontus region is in modern-day Turkey. It includes coastal areas and mountains. People from southern Russia, Ukraine, and Crimea are sometimes called "Northern Pontic Greeks." Those from the original Pontus area are "South Pontic." People from Georgia and northeastern Anatolia are often called "Eastern Pontic Greeks."
Their unique language
The Pontic Greek language is very old. It has kept many features from ancient Greek. This is because the region was far from other Greek-speaking areas. It's different from the modern Greek spoken in Greece today.
History of the Pontic Greeks
The history of the Pontic Greeks is long and interesting. They have lived in the Black Sea region for a very long time. Their presence dates back to ancient times.
Ancient Greek settlements
Greeks started settling in Pontus around 700 BC. They built cities along the coast. These cities became important trading centers. They helped spread Greek culture and ideas.
Under Roman and Byzantine rule
Later, the Pontus region became part of the Roman Empire. Then it was part of the Byzantine Empire. During these times, the Pontic Greeks kept their language and traditions. Many churches and monasteries were built.
The Empire of Trebizond
After the Byzantine Empire weakened, a new Greek state formed in Pontus. It was called the Empire of Trebizond. This empire lasted for over 250 years. It was a center of Greek culture and trade. It finally fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1461.
Life under the Ottomans
After 1461, Pontus became part of the Ottoman Empire. Many Pontic Greeks continued to live there. Some converted to Islam, but many kept their Christian faith. They also kept their unique language and customs.
Migration and new homes
Over the centuries, many Pontic Greeks moved. Some went to other parts of the Ottoman Empire. Others moved to the Russian Empire, especially to areas like Georgia. These migrations happened in waves. They were often due to wars or economic reasons.
Pontic Greek culture
Pontic Greek culture is rich and vibrant. It has been shaped by their long history. Their traditions are unique and special.
Music and dance
Music and dance are very important. The kemençe is a traditional string instrument. It's often played during folk dances. The Horon is a famous Pontic dance. It's a fast and energetic circle dance.
Food and traditions
Pontic cuisine has its own flavors. It often uses local ingredients. Many traditional dishes are passed down through families. Festivals and celebrations are also a big part of their culture. They often involve music, dance, and special foods.
Pontic Greeks today
Today, Pontic Greeks live all over the world. Many live in Greece. Others live in Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, and Germany. There are also communities in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Keeping their heritage alive
Pontic Greeks work hard to keep their culture alive. They teach their language to younger generations. They organize cultural events and festivals. These efforts help connect them to their roots. They also share their unique heritage with others.
Images for kids
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Funerary stele of two Greek warriors found on the Black Sea coast, Taman peninsula, 4th century BC
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Ancient Greek coin from Sinope, coast depicting the head of a nymph and an eagle with raised wings, 4th Century BC
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Roman Diocese of Pontus, 400 AD
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The area claimed for the Republic of Pontus after World War I, based on the extent of the six local Greek Orthodox bishoprics.
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Greek population in Anatolia and Asia Minor in blue color, 1911
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Sinop fortress in 2011.
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Giresun Island, used by Ancient Greek colonists as early as the 5th century BCE
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Saint Anne Church, one of the oldest churches in Trabzon
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Dome of Trabzon's Hagia Sophia
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Zilkale in the Pontic Alps in Çamlıhemşin, Rize Province
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Konstantinos Theofylaktos' mansion in Trabzon before it was converted to a museum
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Traditional rural Pontian houses
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Close-up view of Sümela Monastery
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The Phrontisterion of Trapezous, early 20th century
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Pontian Greek students and teachers of the Alumni Tuition 1902–1903 in Trebizond
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Traditional Pontian musical instruments: kemençe, davul, zurna. Photo from 1950s in Matzouka, Trabzon, Turkey.
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Folk dances in Turkey. Horon in blue.
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Pontian Greek football team called Pontus Merzifounta.
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Olympic gold medalist pole vaulter, Katerina Stefanidi
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Yianis Pasalidis
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Voula Patoulidou
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A wealthy Pontic Greek family in Geneva
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A middle-class Pontic Greek family
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Pontic Greek family in the courtyard of a Trapezounta house (modern Trabzon, Turkey)
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Pontian Greek ladies and children of Trapezounta
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Pontic Greek couple in Trapezounta
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Pontian Greek athletics team from Kerasounta (modern Giresun, Turkey)
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Pontian Greek female students of Trapezounta
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Pontic Greeks in Batumi, Georgia
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Pontian Greek Canoe, off the coast of Trapezounta
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Pontic Greek from the Caucasus as member of the Russian Imperial Army
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See also
In Spanish: Griegos pónticos para niños
