PAGASAE (city in Magnesia)
Ancient Greek city in Magnesia, Thessaly
- Kind of place
- City
- Region
- Magnesia
- Where
- 39.31° N, 22.93° E
Mythologists claim the city's name originated from the construction of the ship Argo there. Strabo 9.5.15 The ship Argo was stationed on the shore of Magnesian Pagasae, where the harbour emitted a strange cry urging the heroes to set forth. Argonautica 1 ¶38 Jason's companions gathered near the ship at this location to greet him. Argonautica 1 ¶47
Described in the sources
The gulf extends toward the location of Pagasae. Herodotus 7.193.1 Argus and Acastus arrived at this beach from the city. Argonautica 1 ¶47 Pagasae was situated 20 stadia from the city of Iolcus. Strabo 9.5.15 The king who dwells in Pagasae is addressed by the speaker. Argonautica 1 ¶56 Pagasae is currently described as a village belonging to Demetrias. Strabo 9.5.15 The Argonauts arrived at the beach of this location during their return journey. Argonautica 4 ¶109 Pagasae served as the naval arsenal for the city of Pherae, located 90 stadia away. Strabo 9.5.15 A gulf named after the city is located farther from Demetrias according to Artemidorus. Strabo 9.5.15 Pagasae is described as the city named Aesonis, which is called by the name of the speaker's father. Argonautica 1 ¶56
Stories and history
Inhabitants of Pagasae were relocated to Demetrias by Demetrius Poliorcetes. Strabo 9.5.15 Some scholars suggest the name instead came from the numerous springs in the area. Strabo 9.5.15