The only colony founded by Sparta was Taranto, located in the region of Magna Grecia, in the south of the Italian peninsula.
Its foundation took place at the end of the 8th century BC, during a period of Greek colonial expansion.
Sparta established this colony with the aim of expanding its influence and controlling important trade routes in the Mediterranean Sea.
In economic terms, Taranto benefited from Sparta's agricultural expertise, especially in the production of olive oil, wine and wheat.
The city also became a center for maritime trade, facilitating the exchange of goods between the Greek world and the local cultures of Italy.
Sparta's military influence in Taranto was significant, colonization was led by Spartans and Spartan military principles were implanted in local society.
This resulted in the formation of a highly militarized society in Taranto, with a dominant warrior elite.
Socially, the relationship between Sparta and the colony was complex, while the Spartans maintained political and military control, the local population, made up of a mix of Greeks and native Italics, contributed to the city's cultural diversity.
There was a gradual assimilation of customs and traditions between the Spartan colonists and the local population.
In the religious aspect, Sparta brought with it its traditional cults and beliefs, but also incorporated elements of the local religion of Taranto, this resulted in a unique religious synthesis, where Spartan and local deities were worshiped side by side.
The relationship between Sparta and the colony was marked by periods of cooperation and conflict, while Sparta sought to maintain control and protect its commercial interests in the region, Taranto occasionally sought greater autonomy and political influence.
This complex dynamic has shaped Taranto's historical and cultural development over the centuries, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of Magna Graecia.