Ancient Corinth

Ancient Corinth, whose foundation dates back to the 10th century BCE, could easily compete in terms of wealth and fame with Athens and Thebes. The city was famous for hosting Games similar to those in Olympia. They were called Isthmian Games and took place in Isthmia.

Corinth played a major role in the missionary work of Paul. He lived in Corinth for 18 months. Here he met Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple expelled by Emperor Claudius from Rome. The couple worked as tent makers and since Paul knew the tent maker's job as well, the three of them had one of the small shops that we see in the agora (market place). From the shop Paul had the opportunity to speak to passers-by for the resurrection of Christ.
The BEMA at the ancient site: According to Acts, Paul spent each Sabbath trying to persuade Jews and Greeks and to convert as many as he could. The Jews of the city laid charges against Paul, claiming he was “persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law.” As a result he was brought to trial before Gallio, the Roman proconsul for that year.
The outcome of the trial was a victory for Christianity. Gallio did not regard Paul’s actions as a serious crime, and the Gospel continued to be preached in Corinth and throughout the Roman world.

53 AD Paul with Aquila and Priscilla from the port Kehries, near Corinth, left for Ephessus concluding his 18-month stay in Corinth (2nd journey;Acts 18:18b)