LYCOSURA (city in Parrhasia)
Ancient city of Arcadia, Greece
- Kind of place
- City
- Region
- Parrhasia
- People of myth here
- Arcesilaus
- Where
- 37.39° N, 22.03° E
Lycosura was a city of the Parrhasians in Arcadia, situated on the slopes of Mount Lycaeus. Pausanias 8.2.1 The river Plataniston flows past the western side of Lycosura, and travelers heading to Phigalia must cross the river near this location. Pausanias 8.39.1 The location Melpeia, where Pan found pipe music, is near this city. Pausanias 8.38.11
Described in the sources
Cleitor, the son of Azan, resided in this location. Pausanias 8.4.5 It is claimed to be the oldest city ever shown by the earth. Pausanias 8.38.1 Arcesilaus is said to have resided in this city when he observed the sacred deer. Pausanias 8.10.10 The city is situated a short distance further up from the previous location mentioned. Pausanias 8.38.1 The people of Lycosura were among the Arcadians who refused to abandon their ancient cities. Pausanias 8.27.5 The Nomian Mountains are situated to the right of Lycosura, and a sanctuary dedicated to Nomian Pan exists on these mountains. Pausanias 8.38.11
Stories and history
It was the first city seen by the sun. Pausanias 8.38.1 The city possesses a surrounding wall circuit. Pausanias 8.38.1 Only a small number of people live within the city. Pausanias 8.38.1 Other humans learned how to build cities from this place. Pausanias 8.38.1 Cleitor was the most powerful king while living in this city. Pausanias 8.4.5 Lycaon, son of Pelasgus, is credited with founding the settlement. Pausanias 8.2.1 The inhabitants of Lycosura were forcibly taken to Megalopolis against their will. Pausanias 8.27.5