Transport & space · c. 700 BCE
Trireme
Three banks of oars and a bronze ram create the ancient Mediterranean's fastest warship.
The trireme carried about 170 rowers in three tiers, reaching sprint speeds near 9 knots, with sails for cruising. Athens built a fleet of around 200 and used it to win at Salamis in 480 BCE. Oared galleys shaped Mediterranean naval power for 2,000 years.