Hero’s Aeolipile: The Steam Engine Constructed by Ancient Greeks

Imagine if I told you that the steam engine was invented over a thousand years before the Industrial Revolution. You’d probably think I was crazy, right? Well, it’s true! Around 0 CE, a brilliant mind named Hero of Alexandria described a steam engine-like device. This simple steam turbine would turn when the water container was heated.

Believe it or not, Heron’s work became popular in the 16th century, and people started replicating his devices. Even centuries later, they were used for fun and simple science lessons.

While this device may seem cool to show off to your Ancient Greek buddies, it didn’t have much practical use. However, according to Keyser, it was actually the first demonstration of a rocket and reactive force, paving the way for future inventions.

Now, you might be wondering what the purpose of this steam engine was. Unfortunately, Heron didn’t provide much information on that front, leaving it up to speculation. Some believe it was simply used as a novelty item to entertain and amaze Ancient Greeks. Others think it may have been used to create illusions in temples, with steam escaping through the nose or mouth of a hollow idol, giving the impression of a breathing figure and inspiring awe.