Perieci di Cirene

n this paper, I discuss the profile and social position of the perioikoi in archaic Cyrene. The analysis of the occurrences and the use of this term in the Herodotean work suggests that, in general, the definition of perioikoi describes territorial proximity and binding relationship. Then, I will dwell on the reform of Demonax and in particular on the first of the moirai where the perioikoi are associated with the ancient founders. I, therefore, reflect on the nature and implications of this relationship, with particular attention both to the social structure of the city and to the specificities of its agricultural production. So I propose that the perioikoi of Cyrene are those groups of Greeks of minor status settled in the territory and closely linked to the landed aristocracy.