GREEK MYTHOSThe Godsunder Codex · Places
CYPHANTA (city in Laconia)
Ancient city
- Kind of place
- City
- Region
- Laconia
- Where
- 36.97° N, 22.99° E
Cyphanta is identified as a port located on the Argolic Gulf. Pliny, Nat. Hist. 4.9 ΒΆ1 The site consists of the ruins of the ancient city, where a cold water fountain springs from the rock. Pausanias 3.24.2 Atalanta is said to have struck the rock with her spear to create the fountain. Pausanias 3.24.2
Described in the sources
A cave dedicated to Asclepius is situated within the ruins. Pausanias 3.24.2 The site is located inland, about ten stades from the coastal road near Zarax. Pausanias 3.24.2 Cyphanta is located two hundred stades by sea from the coastal town of Brasiae. Pausanias 3.24.3
Stories and history
A stone statue of Asclepius stands inside the sacred cave. Pausanias 3.24.2