Greek city-states developed instead of a single state: The geography did a key role in setting apart the Greek cities, imposing natural barriers as the ocean, mountains and vast distances separated and prevented a unified state. Each city had also its characteristic culture and self-governed, this created a Mediterranean landscape where Greek culture flourished Important cities like Athens, Crete and Sparta developed their unique features: The Spartans to the West became fierce warriors and specialized in combat and armor building. Athens became a center of culture, science and religious practices, the greatest temples can be found there. Contact from other cities was possible yet the independence and autonomous rule were preferred. The city-states had been naturally isolated and divided by geographical barriers, yet sea allowed as well Greeks to become experts on the sea see the image below for further reference
