Technology – Manufacturing and the Perioeci:
Although Spartans may have been craftsmen until the 6th century, the perioeci
carried out most manufacturing and crafts. Of most importance to the Spartans
was the manufacture of armour and weapons. The famous shields of the
Spartans required the availability of leather and iron thought to have been
mined by the perioeci. Laconia was known for its:
 Bronze work: Weapons, greaves, helmets, vases, ornaments and
religious figurines.

Pottery: pots, cups, bowls.
 Painting and art.
 Cloth, textiles and died products.
 Red woollen military cloaks.
Economic exchange:
Spartans were not permitted to trade and use money. Trade was left to the
perioeci and overseas produces passed through the port of Gytheion. While
Lycurgus’ reforms attacked all kinds of wealth, it is believed that money was
never forbidden in Sparta and that foreign coins circulated throughout the
society. The medium of exchange used in Sparta is believed to have been iron
bars.