The “Greek fire” was a mysterious incendiary weapon that helped the mighty Byzantine Empire survive and ensure that it continued to exercise its sovereignty for many centuries.
Using a unique formula—which even today’s scientists have trouble figuring out—the Greeks of Byzantium kept the enemy away from their vast lands which once spanned all of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor.
More importantly, the Greek fire saved Constantinople, the seat of the Byzantine Empire, from repeated sieges by the Arabs.
Even when it was captured, enemies of Byzantium were never able to recreate the unique chemical concoction that generated fire that was capable of slicing through water.
Invention of Greek fire
Greek fire—as the Crusaders referred to it—was also called “liquid fire,” “Roman fire,” or “sea fire.” It was not the first incendiary weapon used in battle. Yet, historically, it is significant for its power.
Effective for centuries
The Byzantines continued to use the puzzling weapon for centuries, and its use was not limited to naval battles.
The incendiary weapon was used in several ways on both sea and land. It was used not only to burn down siege towers but also against enemy fortifications.
There was a hand-held version of the weapon called the cheirosiphon which was something like an ancient version of a flamethrower.
Furthermore, the Byzantines used to fill clay jars with Greek fire so they could hurl it at the enemy much like grenades.
Jars of Greek fire and caltrops—spiked metal devices strewn on the ground to impede chariots—that had been doused in the liquid were used as offensive weapons by Byzantine armies.
Arabs, Bulgarians, Russians, and other invaders experienced the power of Greek fire through the centuries, making it an influential military invention.
From the 7th century until the Fall of Constantinople on May 29, 1453, this Byzantine weapon was significant in protecting the Greek empire.
According to some historians, it was Greek fire that had kept the Byzantine Empire protected from invaders for centuries, subsequently saving the whole of Western civilization.