In the ancient world, no warriors commanded greater respect or inspired deeper fear than the hoplites of Sparta. These soldier-citizens represented the pinnacle of Greek military culture, men whose entire existence revolved around the art and discipline of war. During the fifth century BC, when Sparta stood at the height of its power, its hoplites were considered virtually invincible, a reputation earned through a lifetime of brutal training, unwavering discipline, and an almost religious devotion to martial excellence.