Do we still use Greek fire today?

An ancient incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine Empire, Greek fire involved a heavily guarded formula that we still can’t figure out today.

What is Greek fire used for?

Greek fire was an incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine Empire beginning c. 672. Used to set fire to enemy ships, it consisted of a combustible compound emitted by a flame-throwing weapon. Some historians believe it could be ignited on contact with water, and was probably based on naphtha and quicklime.

Was the Greek fire useful?

Developed in the Byzantine empire of the seventh century, Greek fire was a devastating weapon capable of being fired through tubes like a flamethrower, or hurled grenade-style in pots. It stuck to and burned everything, and couldn’t be doused by water, making it especially useful in naval battles.

When was Greek fire last used?

There are just two sources that refer to it being used in the 1453 siege of Constantinople. Most historians believe both the recipe and its usage died out shortly after 1099 though.

Does Greek fire burn underwater?

According to the ancient accounts, Greek fire, developed in 672, was a substance that was easily ignited. Once lit, it burned extremely hot and could even stay burning under water. Because the substance was so powerful, the formula for making it was closely guarded.

What happened Greek fire?

Greek fire was a flaming mixture fired from the ships of the Byzantine empire from the 7th century. The fire would cling to flesh and was impossible to extinguish with water. This deadly concoction was created by a family of chemists and engineers from Constantinople, and the secret recipe died with them.

How is Greek fire similar to napalm?

Greek Fire was an incendiary weapon first used in Byzantine warfare in 678 CE. The napalm of ancient warfare, the highly flammable liquid was made of secret ingredients and used both in catapulted incendiary bombs and sprayed under pressure so as to launch flames at enemy ships and fortifications.

How long was Greek fire used?

Greek Fire became the most devastating weapon of Christendom for over seven centuries and ensured that Constantinople resisted all comers.

Who invented Greek fire?

Callinicus
Greek fire was a weapon used by the Byzantine Empire in naval warfare. It was effective as it continued to burn on water. Greek fire was introduced in 672 AD in the reign of Emperor Constantine Pogonatus, the inventor being an architect called Callinicus of Heliopolis.