The army of Xerxes, destroying cities and villages, would soon reach Attica. Themistocles had to persuade the Athenians to abandon Athens. The oracle of Delphi said that a "wooden wall" would save the city.

"He means the ships! Let's go to Salamis!" he shouted. Most believed the Athenian leader and abandoned the city. At the Greek camp in Salamis, many insisted on fighting in open sea.

However, Themistocles managed to convince the commander Eurybiades to have the naval battle in the straits of Salamis...