Trireme

The trireme was undoubtedly the most famous and popular ship of Greek antiquity, dominating the eastern Mediterranean for more than 1000 years. According to Thucydides, it was first built by the Corinthian Ameinocles on behalf of the Samians. Before the end of the 6th century BC it was established as a new type of warship with excellent performance in naval combat, as it was particularly fast and maneuverable. It soon became the emblem of Athenian democracy. http://archive.noesis.edu.gr/repository/handle/11609/001-01983.html