SKIATHOS (town)
Town and seat of Skiathos island, Greece
- Kind of place
- Town
- Where
- 39.16° N, 23.49° E
Sciathus is one of the most celebrated islands located in front of the Magnetes. Strabo 9.5.16 Sciathus was visible in the sea as the Argonauts sailed past it. Argonautica 1 ¶70 The wine from Sciathus invites travelers to stop and drink. Athenaeus 1.56
Described in the sources
The island of Sciathos forms one side of a narrow strait separating it from the mainland of Magnesia, with a reef known as the Ant located between them. Herodotus 7.176.1 +1 Sciathus is located fifteen miles from Mount Athos. Pliny, Nat. Hist. 4.23 ¶4 The Argonauts landed near Sciathus when the wind blew against them. Argonautica 1 ¶70 An advance guard of three Greek ships was stationed at this location. Herodotus 7.179.1 The island contains a city that shares the same name as the island itself. Strabo 9.5.16 The island was under the control of the Athenians before Philip seized it. Strabo 9.5.16 Two hundred ships were sent to cruise outside Sciathus to hide their movements. Herodotus 8.7.1 Beacons were sent from this location to inform the Greeks stationed at Artemisium. Herodotus 7.183.1
Stories and history
Philip of Macedon seized the island to expand his territory near his own country. Strabo 9.5.16 Strattis praises the wine produced in Sciathus, which is described as black in color and recommended to be mixed half and half. Athenaeus 1.56