SPHAERIA (island in Troezenia and Hermionis)
Former island of ancient Argolis
- Kind of place
- Island
- Region
- Troezenia and Hermionis
- Where
- 37.50° N, 23.46° E
Aethra established a temple of Athena Apaturia on the island. Pausanias 2.33.1 The temple lies on a level plain and is admired for its antiquity and the costliness of its construction. Diodorus 5.42
Described in the sources
The island was formerly known by the name Sphaeria. Pausanias 2.33.1 Another large island lies thirty stades to the east in the ocean. Diodorus 5.42 Its name was changed to Sacred Island due to events involving Aethra. Pausanias 2.33.1 The island is inhabited by men sprung from the soil called Panchaeans. Diodorus 5.42 The temple of Zeus Triphylius is sixty stades from the city of Panara. Diodorus 5.42 The tomb of Sphaerus, a charioteer to Pelops, is located on the island. Pausanias 2.33.1 The Troezenians possess this island, which is located near the mainland. Pausanias 2.33.1 Foreigners on the island include Oceanites, Indians, Scythians, and Cretans. Diodorus 5.42 A notable city called Panara exists on the island and enjoys unusual felicity. Diodorus 5.42 The land is divided among inhabitants, with the king taking the best portions and a tithe of fruits. Diodorus 5.42
Gods and worship
Troezenian maidens dedicate their girdles to Athena Apaturia before marriage. Pausanias 2.33.1
Stories and history
The island yields every variety of highly fragrant incense. Diodorus 5.41 The king receives a tithe of the fruits produced by the island. Diodorus 5.42 Aethra changed the island's name from Sphaeria to Sacred Island. Pausanias 2.33.1 The magistrates refer weightiest affairs to the priests of their own accord. Diodorus 5.42 Aethra crossed to the island to perform libations for Sphaerus after a dream. Pausanias 2.33.1