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Mythology
According to Greek mythology, the island was discovered by Thassos. Thassos was said to be the son or grandson of Aginoras King of the Phoenicians at the city Tyros.Supposedly (according to mythology) Zeus transformed into a bull stole Europe who was the sister of Thassos. So it is said that her father Aginoras sent her four brothers to find her. One of the brothers was Thassos who in his search discovered the beautiful island and settled there and so Thassos was named after him. The inhabitants of Paros island after their establishment in Thassos have also got a myth that says that Hercules donated the island to the two sons of King Androgeo, Sthenelos and Alcaios. Thassos is also reffered to by some ancient poets and writers as “Aeria” because of its clean air and its cool summer breeze. It has also been called “Aethria” for its clear blue sky, as well as “Chrisi” for the gold of its goldmines, or “Seashore of Demetra” for the rich and exquisite fruits. The etymology of the name “Thassos” ,could also be related to the word “Drosos” (=cool), because of the many forests on the island. The name of the island is also combined with weather names, such as Asos, Kosos, Vrastoi.
To go from Thassos History to Thassos Home page click here.
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