The historie of the vvorld: commonly called, The naturall historie of C. Plinius Secundus. Translated into English by Philemon Holland Doctor of Physicke. The first [-second] tome

THE FIFTH BOOKE OF [unspec G] THE HISTORIE OF NATVRE, (Book 5)

WRITTEN BY C. PLINIVS SECVNDVS. [unspec H]

The description of Africke. (Book 5)

AFricke the Greekes haue called Lybia, euen all that tract from whence the Lybian sea before it begin∣neth, and endeth in the Aegyptian. No part of the earth receiueth fewer gulfes and armes of the sea, in that long compasse of crooked coasts from the West. The names as well of the Nations as towns there be of all others most hard to be pronounced, vnlesse it be in their owne tongues, and againe they be ca∣stles and forts for the most part that they dwell in.

CHAP. I. [unspec I]

¶ Mauritania.

AT the beginning, the lands of Mauritania vntill the time of C. Caesar, [i. Caligula] sonne of Germanicus, were called kingdomes: but by his cruelty diuided it was into two prouinces. The vtmost promontorie of the Ocean is named of the Greeks Ampelusia: the townes therein were Lissa and Cotes, beyond Hercules pillars. Now in it is Tingi, sometime built by Antaeus: and afterward by Claudius Caesar when he made a Colonie of it, it was called Traducta Iulia. It is from Be∣lone a towne in Baetica by the next and neerest passage ouer sea thirty miles. Fiue and twenty [unspec K] miles from it in the Ocean coast standeth a Colonie erected by Augustus, now Iulia Constan∣tia, exempt from the dominion and iurisdiction of the Kings of Zilis, and commanded to go for law and iustice as far as Baetica. And two and thirty miles from it, Lixos, made a Colony by Claudius Caesar; whereof in old time there went many fabulous and loud lying tales. For there stood, they say, the royall pallace of Antaeus: there was the combat betweene him and Hercules: there also were the gardens and hort-yards of the Hesperides. Now there floweth thereinto out of the sea a certain creek or arme thereof, and that by a winding channell, where∣in men now take it that there were Dragons seruing in good stead to keep and gard the same. It incloseth an Island within it selfe, which, notwithstanding the Tract thereby be somewhat [unspec L] higher, is onely not ouerflowed by the sea tides. In it there standeth erected an altar of Hercu∣les: and setting aside certaine wilde Oliues, nothing else is to be seen of that goodly groue, re∣ported to beare golden Apples. And in good faith lesse may they wonder at the strange lies of Greece, giuen out of these and the riuer Lixus, who would but thinke how of late our coun∣treymen haue deliuered some fables of the same things as monstrous well-neere: to wit, That this a most strong and mighty city, and bigger than great Carthage: moreouer, that it is scitu∣ate right against it, aad an infinite way well-neere from Tingi: and other such like, which Cor∣nelius Nepos hath been most eager to beleeue. From Lixus forty miles in the midland part of the main stands Babba, another Colony of Augustus, called by him Iulia in the field or cham∣pian: also a third 75 miles off, called Banasa, but now it hath the addition of Valentia. 35 [unspec M] miles from it is the towne Volubile, iust in the mid way between both seas. But in the coast and borders thereof, fifty miles from Lixus, runneth Subur a goodly plenteous riuer, and na∣uigable neere to the Colony Banasa. As many miles from it is the towne Sala, standing vpon

a riuer of the same name, neere now vnto the wildernesse, much infested and annoied with whole [unspec A] heards of Elephants, but much more with the nation of the Autololes, through which lies the way to Atlas the most fabulous mountaine of all Africk. For writers haue giuen out, that this hill arising out of the very midst of the sea sands, mounteth vp to the skie, all rough, ill fauored, and ouergrowne on that side that lieth to the shore of the Ocean, vnto which it gaue the name; and yet the same is shadowie, full of woods, and watered with veines of spouting Springs that way which looketh to Africke, with fruitfull trees of all sorts, springing of the own accord, and bearing one vnder another, in such sort, that at no time a man can want his pleasure and delight to his full contentment. Moreouer, that none of the inhabitants there are seene all day long: all is still and silent, like the fearfull horror in desert wildernesse: and as men come neerer and nee∣rer [unspec B] vnto it, a secret deuotion ariseth in their hearts, and besides this feare and horrour, they are lifted vp aboue the clouds, and euen close to the circle of the Moone. Ouer and besides, that the same hill shineth oftentimes with many flashes of fires, and is hanted with the wanton las∣ciuious Aegipanes and Satyres, whereof it is full, that it resoundeth with noise of Haut-boies, pipes, and fifes, and ringeth againe with the sound of tabers, timbrels, and cymbals. These be the reports of great & famous writers, to say nothing of the labors and works both of Hercules and Perses there; and to conclude, that the way vnto it is exceeding great, and not certainely knowne. Bookes there were besides of Hanno, a great captain and commander among the Car∣thaginians, who in the time of the most flourishing state of Carthage, had a charge and com∣mission to discouer and suruey the whole compasse of Africk. Him, most of the Greeks as well as our countreymen following, among some other fabulous stories, haue written that hee also built many cities there; but neither memoriall vpon record, nor any token of them at all is left [unspec C] extant. Whiles Scipio Aemylianus warred in Africk, Polybius the writer of the Annales, receiued of him a fleet: who hauing saled about of purpose to search into that part of the world, hath put thus much downe in writing, that from the said mountaine West, toward the forrest ful of wild beasts which Africk breedeth, vnto the riuer Anatis, are 485 miles. And from thence to Lixus 205. Agrippa saith, that Lixus is distant from the streights of Gades 112 miles. Then, that there is an arme of the sea called Saguti. Also a towne vpon the promontory, Mutelacha. Riuers, Su∣bur and Sala. Moreouer, that the hauen Rutubis is from Lixus 313 miles. And so forward to the Promontorie of the Sun. The port or hauen Risardir; the Gaetulians, Autololes, the riuer Cosenus, the nation of the Scelatites and Massalians. The riuers Masatal and Darat, wherein Crocodiles are ingendred. Then forward, that there is a gulfe of 516 miles, inclosed within the [unspec D] promontory or cape of the mountain Barce, running along into the West, which is called Sur∣rentium: after it, the riuer Palsus, beyond which are the Aethiopians Perorsi, & at their back are the Pharusi. Vpon whom ioine the midlanders, to wit, the Gaetulianders. But vpon the coast are the Aethyopian Daratites, the riuer Bambotus ful of Crocodiles & Hippopotames [i. Water∣horses.] From which, he saith, That there is nothing but mountains all the way as far as to that which we call Theon-Ochema (The gods chariot.) Then, in sailing nine daies and nights to the promontorie Hesperium, he hath placed the mountain Atlas in mid-way thereof, which by all other writers is set downe to be in the vtmost marches of Mauritania. The first time that the Romans warred in Mauritania, was in the time of prince Claudius Emperor: at what time as Ae∣demon the freed seruant of king Ptolomaeus, by C. Caesar slaine, went about to reuenge his death; for [unspec E] as the barbarous people retired and fled back, certaine it is that the Romans came as far as to the hill Atlas. And not only such Generals as had bin Consuls, and were of the Senatours de∣gree and calling, who at that time managed and conducted the wars, but knights also and gen∣tlemen of Rome, who from that time had gouernment and command there, tooke it for an ho∣nor and glory, that they had pierced and entred into Atlas. [* 1.1 Fiue Romane Colonies, as wee haue said, be in that prouince] and by that common fame and report, there may seeme to lie a thorow faire thither. But that is found for the most part by daily experience, most deceiueable of all things else; because persons of high place and great worth, when they are loath to search out narrowly into the truth of matters, sticke not for shame of ignorance, to giue out vntruths: [unspec F] and neuer are men more credulous and apt to beleeue and be deceiued, than when some graue personage fathereth a lie. And verily I lesse maruell, that they of gentlemens degree, yea, and those now of Senators calling, haue not come to the certaine knowledge of some things there: seeing they set their whole affection and mind vpon nothing but excesse and riot; which how

powerfull it is and forcible, is seen by this most of all, when forests are sought out far and neere [unspec G] for Iuory and Citron trees; when all the rocks in Getulia are searched for Murices and Purpu∣rae [shell fishes that yeeld the purple crimson colour.] Howbeit, the natural inhabitants of that country do write, That in the sea coast 150 miles from Sala, there is the riuer Asana, that recei∣ueth salt water into it, but hath in it a goodly faire hauen; and not far from it another fresh ri∣uer, which they call Fut: from which to Dyris (for that is the name in their language of Atlas, by a generall consent) are 200 miles, with a riuer comming betweene, named Vior. And there, the speech so goeth, are to be seene the certain tokens of a ground somtimes inhabited; to wit, the reliques of vine yards and date tree groues. Suetonius Paulinus (a Consull in our time) who was the first Roman leader, that for certaine miles space went ouer Atlas, also hath reported ve∣rily as touching the height thereof, that with the rest: and moreouer, that the foot thereof to∣ward the bottom, stand thick and ful of tail woods, with trees therein of an vnknown kinde, but [unspec H] the heigth of them is delectable to see to, smooth and euen without knots, the leaues & bran∣ches like Cypresse, and besides the strong smell they yeeld, are couered all ouer with a thinne downe, of which (with some help of Art) fine cloath may be made, such as the silk-worm doth yeeld. That the top and crest thereof is couered ouer with deepe snow euen in Sommer time. Moreouer, that he reached vp to the pitch of it at the tenth daies end, & went beyond it, as far as a riuer called Niger, through wildernesses ful of blacke dust; where otherwhiles there stood out certaine cliffes, and craggie rocks, as they were scortched and burnt; and that those places by reason of partching heat were not habitable, albeit a man made triall thereof in the winter season: furthermore, that the pesants who dwelt in the next forests, were pestred with Elephants, wilde beasts, and serpents of all sorts; and those people were called Canarij; for that they and [unspec I] dogs feed together one with another, and part among them the bowels of wild beasts. For cer∣taine it is knowne, that a nation of the Aethyopians whom they cal Peroesi, ioineth vpon them. Iuba the father of Ptolomaeus, who before-time ruled ouer both Mauritanes, a man more memo∣rable and renowned for his study and loue of good letters, than for his kingdome and royall port, hath written the like concerning Atlas: and he saith moreouer, that there is an herb grow∣ing there called Euphorbia, of his Physitions name that first found it: the milkie iuice whereof he praiseth wondrous much, for to cleare the eies, and to be a preseruatiue against all serpents and poisons whatsoeuer; and thereof hath he written a treatise, and made a book by it selfe: thus much may suffice, if it be not too much, as touching Atlas.

CHAP. II. [unspec K]

¶ The prouince Tingitania.

THe length of the Prouince Tingitania taketh 170 miles. The nations therin be these: the Mauri, which in times past was the principall, and of whom the prouince took name: and those most writers haue called Marusij. Being by war weakened and diminished, they came in the end to a few families only. Next to them were the Massaesuli, but in like manner were they consumed. Now is the prouince inhabited by the Getulians, Bannurri, and the Au∣tololes, the most valiant and puissant of all the rest. A member of these were somtime the Vesu∣ni, but being diuided from them, they became a nation by themselues, and bounded vpon the [unspec L] Aethiopians. The prouince naturally full of mountains Eastward, breedeth Elephants. In the hill also Abila, and in those which for their euen and equal height they cal, The 7 brethren: and these butt vpon Abila, which looketh ouer into the sea. From these beginneth the coast of the Inward sea. The riuer Timuda nauigable, and a town somtime (of that name.) The riuer Land, which also receiueth vessels. The town Rusardie, and the hauen. The riuer Malvana nauigable. The towne Siga iust against Malacha scituate in Spaine: the Royall seat of Syphax, and now the other Mauritania. For a long time they kept the names of KK. so as the vtmost was called Bogadiana: and likewise Bocchi, which now is Caesarienses. Next vnto it is the hauen, for the largenesse thereof called Magnus, with a towne of Roman citizens. The Riuer Muluca, which is the limit of Bocchi and the Massaesuli. Quiza Xenitana, a towne of strangers: At∣sennaria, a towne of Latines three miles from the Sea: Carcenna, a Colonie of Augustus, [unspec M] erected for the second Legion: likewise another Colonie of his planted with the Pretorian band, Gunugi, and the promontorie of Apollo. And a most famous towne there Caesarea, vsually before-time called Iol, the Royall Seat of King Iuba: endowed by Claudius the Empe∣rour

of happie memorie, with the franchises and right of a Colonie, at whose appointment the [unspec A] old souldiers were there bestowed. A new towne, Tipasa, with the grant of the liberties of La∣tium. Likewise Icosium, endowed by Vespasian the Emperour, with the same donations. The co∣lonie of Augustus Rusconiae, and Ruscurium, by Claudius honoured with the free burgeoisie of the citie. Rusoezus, a colonie of Augustus. Salde, a Colonie of the same man. Igelgili also, and Turca, a towne seated vpon the sea and the riuer Amsaga. Within the land, the Colonie Augu∣sta, the same that Succubar; and likewise Tubrisuptus. Cities, Timici, Tigauae. Riuers, Sarda∣bala and Nabar. The people Macurebi; the riuer Vsar, and the nation of the Nabades. The riuer Ampsaga is from Caesarea 233 miles. The length of Mauritania both the one and the other to∣gether, [unspec B] is 839 miles; the breadth 467.

CHAP. III.

¶ Numidia.

NExt to Ampsaga is Numidia, renowned for the name of Masanissa; called of the Greekes the land Metagonitis. The Numidian Nomades, so named of changing their pasture, who carry their cottages or sheds (and those are all their dwelling houses) about with them vpon waines. Their townes be Cullu and Rusicade, from which 48 miles off within the Mid∣land parts, is the colonie Cirta, surnamed of the Cirtanes: another also within and a free bo∣rough town, named Bulla Regia. But in the vtmost coast, Tacatua, Hippo Regius, and the riuer Armua. The towne Trabacha, of Roman citizens: the riuer Tusca, which boundeth Numidia. [unspec C] and besides the Numidian marble, and great breed of wilde beasts, nothing is there else worth the noting.

CHAP. IV.

¶ Africa.

FRom Tusca forward, you haue the region Zeugitana, and the countrey properly called A∣frica. Three promontories; first the White; then anon that of Apollo ouer-against Sardinia: and a third of Mercurie opposite to Sicilie; which running into the sea make two creekes: the one Hipponensis, next to the towne which they call Hippo rased; the Greeks name it Di∣arrhyton, [unspec D] for the little brooks and rils that water the grounds: vpon this, there bordereth Theu∣dalis, an exempt towne from tribute, but somewhat farther from the sea side; then the promon∣tory of Apollo. And in the other creek, Vtica, a towne of Roman citizens, ennobled for the death of Cato, and the riuer Bagrada. A place called Castra Cornelia: and the colony Carthago, a∣mong the reliques and ruines of great Carthage, and the colony Maxulla: towns, Carpi, Mis∣na, and the free borough Clupea vpon the promontorie of Mercurie. Item, free townes, Curubis, and Neapolis. Soone after ye shall meet with another distinction of Africke indeed. Liby∣phoenices are rhey called, who inhabit Byzacium; for so is that region named; containing in circuit 250 miles, exceeding fertile and plenteous, where the ground sowne yeeldeth again to the husband-man 100 fold increase. In it are free townes, Leptis, Adrumetum, Ruspina and [unspec E] Thapsus: then Thenae, Macomades, Tacape, Sabrata, reaching to the lesse Sy•…•…is: to which, the length of Numidia and Africa from Amphaga, is 580 miles: the breadth, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…ch there of as is knowne, 200. Now this part which wee haue called Africke, is diuided into prouinces twaine, the old and the new; separated one from the other by a fosse or ditch brought as farre as to Thenae, within the Africane gulfe, which towne is 217 miles from Carthage: and that trench Scipio Africanus the second, caused to be made, & bare halfe the charges together with the KK. The third gulfe is parted into twaine, cursed and horrible places both, for the ebbing and flowing of the sea, and the shelues betweene the two Syrtes. From Carthage to the nearer of them, which is the lesse, is 300 miles by the account of Polybius: who saith also, that the said Syrte is for 100 miles forward dangerous, and 300 about. By land also thither, the way is [unspec F] passeable by obseruation of the Stars, at one time of the yeare onely. and that lyeth through desert sands and places full of serpents. And then you meet with Forrests replenished with numbers of wilde beasts. And within-forth Wildernesses of Elephants: and soone after, waste deserts euen beyond the Garamantes, who from the Augilae are distant twelue daies iourney.

Aboue them was the nation of the Psylli. and aboue them the lake of Diomedes enuironed with [unspec G] desarts. Those Augylae themselues are seated well neere in the middle way from Aethyopia, which bendeth Westward, and the countrie lying between the two Syrtes, with equall distance between of both sides: but the shore betweene the two Syrtes of 250 miles. There standeth the citie Ocensus, the riuer Cinyps and the countrie. Townes, Neapolis, Taphra, Abrotonum, the other Leptis, called also the great. Then the greater Syrtis, incompasse 625 miles, and in di∣rect passage 313. Next to it, there inhabit the people Cisipades. In the inmost gulfe was the coast of the Lotophagi, whom some haue called Alachroas, as far as to the alters of Phylaena, and of sand are they. Next to them. not farre from the Continent, the vast and wide Meere ad∣mitteth into it the riuer Triton, and taketh the name of him: but Callimachus calleth it Pallan∣tias, and saith it is on this side the lesser Syrtes; but many place it between both Cyrtes. The promontory that encloses the bigger, is named Boryon. Beyond it is the prouince Cyrenaica. [unspec H] From the riuer Ampsaga to this bound, Africk contains 26 States, who are subiect to the Ro∣mane Empire: among which are six colonies besides the aboue-named, Vthina and Tuburbis. Townes endowed with Franchises of Roman citizens 15. Of which those in the midland parts, worthy to be named, are Azuritanum, Abutucence, Aboriense, Canopicum, Chilmanense, Si∣mittuense, Thunusidense, Tuburnicense, Tynidrumense, Tribigense, Vcitana twain, the greater and the lesse, and Vagiense. One towne enioying the liberties of Latium, Vsalitanum. One tri∣butary or pensionary towne neere Castra Cornelia, paieth custome and duties to Rome. Free townes 30, of which there are to be named within-forth, Arolitanum, Acharitanum, Auinense, Abziritanum, Canopitanum, Melzitanum, Madaurense, Salaphitanum, Tusdritanum, Tiricen∣se, [unspec I] Tiphicense, Tunicense, Theudense, Tagestense, Tigense, Vlusibritanum, another Vagense, Vigense and Zamense. The rest may well be called not only cities, but also for the most part, Nations, namely the Natadontes, Capsitani, Misulani, Sabarbares, Massili, Misiues, Vamacures, Ethini, Massini, Marcubij, and Gaetulia all and whole, euen to the riuer Nigris, which parteth Affricke and Aethiopia.

CHAP. V.

¶ Cyrene.

THe region Cyrenaica, called also Pentapolitana, is famous and renowned for the Oracle of Hammon, which is from Cyrenae 400 miles, for the fountaine of the Sunne, and princi∣pally [unspec K] for 5 cities, Berenice, Arsinoe, Ptolemais, Apollonia, and Cyrene it selfe. Berenice standeth vpon the vtmost winding and nouke of Syrtis, called sometim the city of the aboue∣named Hesperīdes, according to the wandering tales of Greece. And before the towne, not far off, is the riuer Lethon, the sacred groue where the hort-yards of these Hesperides are reported to be. From Leptis it is 385 miles. From it stands Arsinoe, vsually named Teuchira, 43 miles: and from thence 22 miles, Ptolemais, called in old time Barce. And then 250 miles off the pro∣montory Phycus runs out along the Creticke sea, distant from Taenarus a cape of Laconia, 350 miles: but from Creet it selfe 125 miles. And after it Cyrene, 11 miles from the sea. From Phycus to Apollonia is 24 miles: to Cherronesus 88: and so forth to Catabathnus 216 miles. The inhabitants there bordering, be the Marmaridae, stretching out in length almost from Pa∣raetonium [unspec L] to the greater Syrtis. After them the Ararauceles: and so in the very coast and side of Syrtis, The Nasamones, whom before-time the Greekes called Mesammones by reason of the place, for that they were seated in the middest betweene the two quicke sands. The Cyrenaick countrie, for the space of 15 miles from the sea side, is fruitfull for trees: and for the same com∣passe within the land, but for corne onely: but then for 30 miles in bredth, and 250 in length, for the gum Laser and nothing else. After the Masamones, the Hasbitae and Masae do liue. Be∣yond them the Hammanientes, eleuen daies iournie from the greater Syrtes to the West, and euen they also euery way are compassed about with sands: how beit they find without much ado pits almost in cubits deepe, for that the waters there of Mauritania doe ouerflow. Houses they make themselues of salt, hewed out of their owne hils in maner of stone. From these to the Tro∣glodites, [unspec M] in the Southwest coast is foure daies iournie, with whom they chaffer and traffick on∣ly for a certaine precious stone or gem, which we call a Carbuncle, brought out of Aethyopia. There comes betweene, the countrie Phazania, lying toward the wildernesse abouesaid of Af∣frick, aboue the lesse Syrtis: where we subdued the nation of the Phazanij, together with the ci∣ties

Alele and Cillaba. In like manner Dydamum ouer-against Sabrata. Next to whom there [unspec A] is a mountain, reaching a great way from the East into the West, called by our men Ater, natu∣rally as it were burnt, & like as if it were scorched, and set on fire with the reflection of the Sun. Beyond that mountain are the desarts: also Matelgae a town of the Garamants, & likewise De∣bris, which casteth forth a spring of waters seething vp from noon to midnight exceeding hot: and for as many houres again into midday most chilling cold; also the most goodly towne Ga∣rama, the chiefe head of the Garamantes. All which places the Romanes haue conquered by force of armes, and ouer them Cornelius Balbus triumphed, the onely man of forreiners that was honoured with the triumphant chariot, and endowed besides with the freedome of Romane citizens. For why, being borne at Gades, he and his vncle both, Balbus the elder, were made free denizons of Rome. And this is maruell that our writers haue recorded, that besides the towns [unspec B] abouenamed by him conquered, himselfe in his triumph caried the titles and pourtraictes not of Cydamus and Garama only, but also of all other nations and cities, which were ranged in a Roll, and went in this order, The towne Tabidium, the nation Niteris, the towne Neglige∣mela, the Nation Bubeium, the town Vel, the nation Enipi, the town Thuben, the hill named Niger. The towns Nitibrum and Rapsa, the nation Discera, the town Debris, the riuer Natha∣bur, the towne Tapsagum, the nation Nannagi, the towne Boin, the towne Pege, the riuer Dasi∣bari. And again forward, these townes lying one to another together, Baracum, Buluba, Alasi, Balsa, Galla, Maxala, and Zizama. The hill Gyri, wherein Tit•…•… hath reported that precious stones were engendred. Hitherto the way to the Garamants, was intricat and vnpassable, by rea∣son of the robbers and theeues of that countrey, who vsed to dig certain pits in the way (which to them that know the quarters of the counttey, is no hard matter to doe) and then couer them [unspec C] lightly ouer with sand. But in the last war which the Romans maintained against the Oenses, vnder the conduct and fortunate auspices of Vespasian the Emperor, there was found a short and neere way of foure daies iourney; & this way is called Praeter caput Saxi (besides the rocks head) The frontier towne of Cyrenaica is called Catabathmos, which is a towne and a vaile all on a sudden falling with a steepe descent. To this bound, from the lesse Syrtis, Cyrenaica Africa li∣eth in length 1060 miles, and in bredth, for so much as is knowne, 800.

CHAP. VI.

¶ Lybya Maroeotis. [unspec D]

THe countrey following is named Mareotis Libya, and boundeth vpon Aegypt, inhabited by the Marmaridae, Adyrmachidae, and so forward with the Mareotae. The measure of it from Catabathmos to Paretoninm, is 86 miles. In that tract there lyeth in the way be∣tweene the village. Apis, a place renowned for the religious rites of Aegypt. From it to Paraeto∣nium are 12 miles. From thence to Alexandria 200 miles: the bredth thereof is 169 miles. Era∣tosthenes hath deliuered in writing, that from Cyrenae to Alexandria by land is 525 miles. Agrip∣pa saith, that the length of all Africk from the Atlanticke sea, together with the inferiour part of Aegypt containeth 3040 miles. Polybius and Eratosthenes, reputed to haue bin most exact and curious in this kinde, set downe, from the Ocean to great Carthage 1600 miles. From thence to Canopicum the neerest mouth of Nilus, they make 1630 miles. Isidore reckoneth from Tin∣gi [unspec E] to Canopus 3599 miles. And Artemidorus forty lesse than Isiodorus.

CHAP. VII.

¶ Islands about Africke, and oueragainst Africke.

THese seas haue not very many Islands within them. The fairest of them all is Meninx, 35 miles long, and 25 broad, called by Eratosthenes Lotophagitis. Two towns it hath, Meninx on Africke side, and Thoar on the other: it selfe is scituate from the right hand promonto∣rie of the lesse Syrtis * 1.2 200 paces. A hundred miles from it against the left hand is Cercina, with a free towne of the same name, in length it is 25 miles, and halfe as much in bredth where it is [unspec F] most; but toward the end not aboue fiue miles ouer. To it there lieth a pretty little one toward Carthage called Cercinitis, & ioineth by a bridge vnto it: from these almost •…•…o miles, lies Lo∣padusa six miles long. Then, Gaulos and Galata: the earth where of killeth the Scorpion, a fell

creature, and noisome to Africke. Men say also that they wil die in Clupea, ouer against which [unspec G] lieth Corsyra, with a towne. But against the gulfe of Carthage be the two Aeginori, rocks more like than Islands, lying most between Sicily and Sardinia. There be that write how these som∣time were inhabited, but afterwards sunke downe and were couered.

CHAP. VIII.

¶ The Aethyopians.

BVt within the inner compassc and hollow of Africke toward the South, & aboue the Gae∣tulians, where the desarts come between, the first people that inhabit those parts, be the Li∣bij Aegyptij, and then the Leucaethiopes. Aboue them are the Aethyopian nations, to wit, the Nigritae, of whom the riuer tooke name: the Gymetes, Pharusi, and those which now reach [unspec H] to the Ocean, whom we spake of in the marches of Mauritania, namely, the Perorsi. From all these, it is nothing but a wildernesse Eastward, till you come to the Garamantes, Augylae, and Troglodites, according to the most true opinion of them, who place 2 Aethyopiaes aboue the desarts of Africk; and especially of Homer, who saith, that the Aethyopians are diuided 2 waies, namely, East and West. The riuer Nyger is of the same nature that Nilus. It bringeth forth Reed and Papyr, breedeth the same liuing creatures, and riseth or swelleth at the same seasons. It springeth betweene the Tareleia Aethyopians, and the Oecalicae. The towne Mavin belon∣ging to this people, some haue set vpon the wildernesse; as also, neere vnto them, the Atlantes, the Aegipanes, halfe wilde beasts, the Blemmyi, the Gamphasants, Satyres, & Himantopodes. Those Atlantes if we will beleeue it, degenerate from the rites and manners of all other men. [unspec I] For neither call they one another by any name, and they look wistly vpon the Sun, rising, & set∣ting, with most dreadful curses, as being pernicious to them & their fields; neither dream they in their sleep as other men. The Troglodites dig hollow caues, and these serue them for dwel∣ling houses: they feed vpon the flesh of serpents. They make a gnashing noise, rather than vtter any voice, so little vse haue they of speech one to another. The Garamants liue out of wedlock and conuerse with their women in common. The Augylae do no worship to any but to the di∣uels beneath. The Gamphasantes bee all naked, and know no Wars, and sort themselues with no forrainer. The Blemmyi, by report haue no heads, but mouth and eies both in their brest: the Satyres besides their shape only, haue no properties nor fashions of men. The Aegipanes are sha∣ped, as you see them commonly painted. The Himantopodes be some of them limber legged [unspec K] and tender, who naturally go creeping on the ground. The Pharusi, sometime Persae, are said to haue bin the companions of Hercules, as he went to the Hesperides. More of Africke worth the noting, I haue not to say.

CHAP. IX.

¶ Of Asia.

VNto it ioineth Asia, which from the mouth of Canopus vnto the mouth of Pontus, after Timosthenes 2639 miles. From the coast of Pontus to that of Maeotis, Eratosthenes saith, is 1545 miles. The whole, together with Egypt vnto Tanais, by Artemidorus and Isidorus, ta∣keth [unspec L] 8800 miles. Many seas there be in it, taking their names of the borderers; and therefore they shall be declared together with them. The next country to Africk inhabited, is Aegypt, ly∣ing far within-forth to the South, so far as the Aethyopians, who border vpon their backs. The nether part thereof the riuer Nilus, diuided on the right hand and the left, by his clasping doth bound and limit, with the mouth of Canopus from Africke, with the Pelusiake from Asia, and carrieth a space between of 170 miles. Whereupon, considering that Nilus doth so part it self, some haue reckoned Aegypt among the Islands, so as it maketh a triangular figure of the land. And here it is that many haue called Aegypt by the name of the Greeke letter Delta, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. The measure of it from the channell where it is but one, and from whence it beginneth first to part into skirts and sides, vnto the mouth of Canopus, is 146 miles; and to the Pelusiak 256: the vp∣most [unspec M] part therof bounding on Aethyopia, is called Thebais. Diuided it is into towneships with seueral iurisdictions, which they cal Nomos; to wit, Ombites, Phatuites, Apollopolites, Her∣monhites, Thinites, Phanturites, Captites, Tentyrites, Diospalites, Antaeopolites, Aphrodito∣lites,

and Lycopolites. The country about Pelusium, these town-ships with their seueral iuris∣dictions, Pharboetites, Bubastites, Sethroites, & Tanites. The rest haue these following, the A∣rabicke, [unspec A] the Hammoniacke which extendeth to the Oracle of Iupiter Hammon, Oxyrinchites, Leontopolites, Atarrabites, Cynopolytes, Hermopolites: Xoites, Mendesins, Sebennites, Ca∣pastites, Latapolites, Heliopolites, Prosopites, Panopolites, Busirites, Onuphites, Sorites, Pte∣nethu, Pthemphu, Naucratites, Nitrites, Gynaecopolites, Menelaites, in the country of Alexan∣dria. In like manner of Libya Mareotis. Heracleopolites is in the Island of Nilus, fiftie miles long, wherein also is that which they call Hercules his town. Two Arsinoites there be they, and Memphites reach as farre as two the head of Delta. Vpon it there do bound out of Affrica the two Ouafitae. There be that change some names of these, and set down for them other iurisdi∣ctions, to wit, Heroopolites, and Crocodilopolites. Between Arsinoites and Memphites there was a lake 250 miles about, or as Mutianus saith, 450, fifty paces deep, [i. 150 foot,] & the same [unspec B] made by mans hand, called the Lake Maeridis, of a king who made it. 72 miles from thence is Memphis, the castle in old time of the Aegyptian kings. From which to the Oracle of Hammon is twelue daies iournie, & so to the diuision of Nilus, which is called Delta, fifteen miles. The riuer Nilus rising from vnknowne springs, passeth thorow desarts and hot burning countries: and going thus a mighty way in length, is known by fame onely, without armes, without wars, which haue discouered and found out all other lands. It hath his beginning, so far forth as Iab•…•… was able to search and find out, in a hil of the lower Mauritania, not far from the Ocean, where a lake presently is seen to stand with water, which they call Nilides. In it are found these fishes called Alabetae, Coracini, Siluri, and the Crocodile. Vpon this argument & presumption Ni∣lus is thought to spring from hence, for that the pourtract of this source is consecrated by the [unspec C] said prince at Caesaria, in Iseum, and is there at this day seene. Moreouer, obserued it is, that as the Snow or rain do satisfie the countrie in Mauritania, so Nilus doth encrease. When it is run out of this lake, it scorneth to run through the sandy and ouergrown places, and hides himself for certaine daies iourny. And then soone after out of a greater lake, it breaketh forth in the country of the Massaesyli, with Mauritania Caesarienses, and lookes about viewing mens com∣pany, carrying the same arguments still of liuing creatures bred within it. Then once again be∣ing receiued within the sands, it is hidden a second time for twenty daies iourny, in the desarts as farre as to the next Aethiopes: and so soone as hee hath once againe espied a man, forth hee startes (as it should seem) out of that spring, which they called Nigris. And then diuiding Af∣frick from Aethiopia, being acquainted, if not presently with people, yet with the frequent [unspec D] company of wild and sauage beasts, and making shade of woods as he goes he cuts through the middest of the Aethiopians: there surnamed Astapus, which in the language of those nations signifieth a water flowing out of darkenesse. Thus dasheth he vpon such an infinite number of Islands, and some of them so mighty great, that albeit he bare a swift streame, yet is he not able to passe beyond them in lesse space than 5 daies. About the goodliest and fairest of them Me∣roe, the chanell going on the left hand is called Astabores, that is, the branch of a water com∣ming forth of darkenesse: but that on the right hand Astusapes, which is as much as, lying hid, to the former signification. And neuer taketh the name of Nilus, before his waters meet again & accord all whole together. And euen so was he aforetime named Siris, for many miles space: and of Homer altogether Aegyptis: and of others, Triton: here and there, and euer and anon hit∣ting [unspec E] vpon Islands, and stirred as it were with so many prouocations: and at the last enclosed and shut within mountaines, and in no place he caries a rougher and swifter stream, whiles the wa∣ter that he beareth, hastens to a place of the Aethiopians called Catadupi, where in the last fall among the rockes that stand in his way, he is supposed not to runne, but to rush downe with a mighty noise. But afterwards he becomes more milde and gentle, as the course of his streame is broken, and his violence tamed and abated, yea, and partly wearied with his long way: and so though with many mouths of his, he dischargeth himselfe into the Aegyptian sea. Howbeit at certaine set daies he swelleth to a great height: and when he hath trauelled all ouer Aegypt, hee ouerfloweth the land, to the great fertility and plenty thereof. Many and diuers causes of this [unspec F] rising and increase of his, men haue giuen: but those which carry the most probabilitie, are ei∣ther the rebounding of the water, driuen back by the winds Etesiae, at that time blowing against it, and driuing the sea withall vpon the mouths of Nilus: or else the Summer rain in Aethiopia by reason that the same Etesiae bring clouds thither from other parts of the world. Timaeus the

Mathematician, alledged an hidden reason therof, to wit, that the head and source of Nilus is [unspec G] named Phyala, and the riuer it selfe is hidden, as it were drowned within certain secret trenches within the ground, breathing forth vapors out of reeking rockes, where it thus lieth in secret. But so soone as the sunne during those daies, commeth neere, drawne vp it is by force of heate, and so all the while he hangeth aloft, ouerfloweth: and then againe for feare he should be whol∣ly deuoured and consumed, putteth in his head againe and lieth hid. And this happeneth from the rising of the dog starre Sicinus, in the Sunnes entrance into Leo, while the planet standeth plumbe ouer the fountaine aforesaid: for as much as in that climate there are no shadows to be seene. Many againe were of a different opinion, that a riuer Howeth more abundantly, when the Sunne is departed toward the North pole, which happeneth in Cancer and Leo: and therefore at that time is not so easily dried: but when he is returned once againe back toward Capricorn [unspec H] and the South pole, it is drunke vp, and therefore floweth more sparely. But if according to Ti∣maus a man would thinke it possible that the water should be drawne vp, the want of shadowes during those daies, and in those quarters, continueth still without end. For the riuer begins to rise and swell at the next change of the Moone after the Sun-steed, by little and little gently, so long as he passes through the signe Cancer, but most abundantly when he is in Leo. And when he is entred Virgo, he falleth and settleth low again, in the same measure as he rose before. And is cleane brought within his bankes in Libia, which is, as Herodotus thinketh, by the hundreth day. All the whiles it riseth; it hath been thought vnlawfull for kings or gouernours to saile or passe in any vessell vpon it, and they make conscrence so to do. How high it riseth, is known by markes and measures taken of certaine pits. The ordinary height of it is sixteen cubits. Vn∣der [unspec I] that gage the waters ouerflow not all. Aboue that stint there are a let and hinderance, by reason that the later it is ere they be fallen, and downe again. By these, the seed time is much of it spent, for that the earth is too wet. By the other there is none at all, by reason that the ground is dry and thirsty. The prouince taketh good keep and reckoning of both, the one as well as the other; For when it is no higher than 12 cubits, it findeth extream famine: yea, and at 13 it fee∣leth hunger still, 14 cubits comforts their hearts, 15 bids them take no care, but 16 affoordeth them plenty and delicious dainties. The greatest floud that euer was knowne vntill thisse daies was 18 cubits, in the time of Prince Claudius Emperor: and the least, in the Pharsalian warre, a∣gainst the death of Pompey: as if the very riuer by that prodigious token lothed to see the same. When at any time the waters seeme to stand and couer the ground still, they are let out at cer∣taine [unspec K] sluces, or floud-gates drawne vp and set open. And so soon as any part of the land is freed from the water, straight waies it is sowed. This is the only riuer of all others that breatheth out no wind from it. The Seignory & dominion of Aegypt beginneth at Syene, the frontier rowne of Aethiopia. For that is the name of a demy Island 100 miles in compasse, wherein are the Cerastae vpon the side of Arabia: and ouer against it the 4 Islands Philae, 600 miles from the partition of Nilus, where it began to be called Delta, as wee haue said. This space of ground hath Artemidorus deliuered, and withall, that within it were 250 townes. Iuba seteth down 400 miles. Aristocreon saith, that from Elephantis to the sea is 750 miles. This Elephantis being an Island, is inhabited beneath the lowest cataract or fal of water 3 miles, and aboue Syene 16: and it is the vtmost point that the Aegyptians saile vnto, & is from Alexandria 586 miles. See how far the Authors aboue written, haue erred and gone out of the way: there meet the Aethiopian [unspec L] ships, for they are made to fold vp together, and carry them vpon their shoulders, so often as they come to those cataracts or downefals afore-said. Aegypt ouer and aboue all other their boast and glory of antiquitie, brags that in the raigne of king Amasis, there were inhabited in it and peopled twenty thousand cities. And euen at this day full it is of them, such as they be, and of base account. Howbeit, that of Apollo is much renowmed, as also neere vnto it another of Leucathea, and Diospolis the great, the very same that Thebes, famous for the 100 gates in it. * 1.3 Also, Captos, a great mart towne next to Nilus, much frequented for merchandise and com∣modities out of India and Arabia. Moreouer the towne of Venus, and another of Iupiter, & Ten∣tyris, beneath which standeth Abydus, the royall seate of Memnon, and Osiris renowmed for [unspec M] the temple there, seuen miles and an halfe distant from the riuer, toward Lybia. Then Ptole∣mais, Panopolis, and another yet of Venus. Also in the Lybian coast, Lycon, where the hils doe bound Thebais. Soone after, these townes of Mercurie, Alabaston, Canum, and that of Her∣cules spoken of before. After these, Arsinoe, and the aboue-said Memphis, betweene which

and the diocesse Arsinoetis, in the Lybian coast, the towers called Pyramides, the Labyrinth [unspec A] built vp in the lake of Moeris without any iot of timber to it, and the town Crialon. One more besides, standing within-forth and bounding vpon Arabia, called the towne of the Sunne, of great account and importance.

CHAP. X.

¶ Alexandria.

BVt right worthy of praise is Alexandria, standing vpon the coast of the Egyptian sea, built by Alexander the Great on Africke side, 12 miles from the mouth of Canopus, neere to the lake Mareotis; which was before-time called * 1.4 Arapotes. Danochares the Architect (a man renowned for his singular wit many waiesl) aid the modell and platforme therof by a sub∣til [unspec B] and witty deuise; for hauing taken vp a circuit of 15 miles for the city, he made it round like to a Macedonian cloke, ful in the skirts, bearing out into angles and corners, as wel on the right hand as the left, so as it seemed to lie in folds and plaits; and yet euen then he set out one fifth part of all this plot for the kings palace. The lake Mareotis from the South side, meeteth with an arme of the riuer Nilus, brought from out of the mouth of the said riuer called Canopicus: for the more commodious trafficke and commerce out of the firme ground and inland Conti∣nent. This lake containeth within it sundry Islands, and (according to Claudius Caesar) it is thirty miles ouer. Others say, that it lieth in length 40 Schoeni, and so, whereas euery Schoene is 30 stadia, it commeth by that account to be 150 miles long, and as many broad. Ouer and besides, there be many goodly faire towns of great importance, standing vpon the riuer Nilus where he [unspec C] runneth, and those especially which haue giuen name to the mouthes of the riuer, and yet not to all those neither (for there be 11 of them in all, ouer and besides foure more, which they them∣selues call bastard mouthes) but to 7 of the principall: to wit, vpon that of Canopus, next vnto Alexandria; then Bolbitinum, and so foorth to Sebenniticum, Phatuiticum, Mendesicum, Taniticum, and last of all Pelusiacum. Other cities there be besides, to wit, Buros, Pharboetos, Leontopolis, Achribris, I sis towne, Busiris, Cynophis, Aphrodites, Sais, Naucratis, of which some thinke the mouth Naucraticum tooke the name, which they be that cal Heracleoticum, preferring it before Canopicum, next vnto which it standeth.

CHAP. XI. [unspec D]

¶ Arabia [the Desart or Petraea.]

BEing once past that arme of the riuer Nilus, which entereth into the sea at Pelusium, you come into Arabia, confining vpon the red sea; and that other Arabia, so rich & odoriferous, and therefore renowned with the syrname of Happie. As for this desart Arabia, possessed it is by the Catabanes, Esbonites, and Screnite Arabians: all barren and fruitlesse, saue whereas it meeteth with the confines of Syria, and setting aside the mountaine Casius, nothing memo∣rable. This region confronteth the Arabians Canchlei on the East-side, and the Cedraei South∣ward, and they both confine together afterwards vpon the Nabathaees. Moreouer, 2 Baies there bee, the one called the gulfe of Heroopolis, and the other of Elani; both in the red sea on the [unspec E] coast of Egypt, 150 miles distant, betweene two townes, Elana, and Gaza, which is in our (Me∣diteranean) sea. Agrippa counteth from Pelusium to Arsinoe, a towne scituate vpon the red sea, an hundred and fiue and twenty miles. See how small a way lyeth betweene two Climates so different in Nature.

CHAP. XII.

¶ Syria, Palestine, Phoenice.

VPon the coast of the said Arabia, confineth Syria; a Region in times past, the chiefe and most renowned vpon earth; and the same distinguished by sundry names. For where it [unspec F] confineth vpon the Arabians, called it was Palestina, Iurie, Coele-Svria, and afterward, Phoenice. But go farther within the firme land, Damascene. Turne more still Southwards, it is named Babylonia. And the same, between the riuers Euphrates and Tygris, carrieth the name

of Mesopotamia. Beyond the mountaine Taurus, it is Sophene; but on this side the hill, they call Comagene. The countrey beyond Armenia, is Adiabenae, named before-time Assyria: but [unspec G] the marches of Syria, which confront Cilicia, is knowne by the name of Antiochia. The whole length of Syria, from the frontiers of Cilicia to Arabia, containeth 470 miles: the bredth between Seleucia Pieria, to Zeugina, a towne seated vpon Euphrates, taketh 175 miles. They that make a more subtill and particular diuision, would haue Phoenice to be enuironed with Syria. And first, as you come from Arabia, is the sea-coast of Syria, which compriseth in it Idu∣maea & Iudaea; then you enter into Phoenicia, and so into Syria again, when you are past Phoe∣nicia. And within-forth farther into the country, Phoenice is inclosed with Syria Damascena. All that sea yet, which beateth vpon that coast, beareth the name of the Phoenician sea. As for the nation it selfe of the Phoenicians, haue been highly reputed for their Science and learning, and namely, for the first inuention of letters, for their knowledge in Astrologie, nauigation, and martial skill. Being past Pelusium, you come to a city called Chabriae Castra to the mountain [unspec H] Casius, and the temple of Iupiter Casius: also the tombe of Pompeius Magnus; and last of all to the city Ostracium. To conclude, from Pelusium to the frontiers of Arabia the Desart [alongst the coast of Syria] are 65 miles.

CHAP. XIII.

¶ Idumaea, Syria, Palestina, Samaria.

SOon after beginneth Idumaea & Palestina, euen from the rising vp of the lake Sirbon, which some haue reported to carry a circuit of 150 miles. Herodotus saith, it is hard vnder the foot of the hill Casius: but at this day it is but a small lake. As for the towns there, they be Rhi∣nocolura, [unspec I] and more within the land, Rhaphaea: also Gaza a port towne, and farther within, An∣thedon, and the mountain Angoris. From thence you descend to the coast of Samaria, the free citie Ascalon, and Azotus; the two Iamnes, whereof the one is well within the land; and so for∣ward to Ioppe, a towne in Phoenicia, which by report, is more antient than the deluge. Scituate it is vpon an hill, with a rocke before it, wherein are to be seen the tokens and reliques of Lady Andromedaes prison where she was bound. Within a chappell there, the Siren Decreto, whereof the Poets tell such tales, is worshipped. Being past Ioppe, you meet with Apollonia: the towne of Strato, called also Caesarea, founded by K. Herod: it beareth now the name of Prima Flauia, a colony there planted and endowed with priuiledges by Vespasian the Emperor. The bounds of Palestina be 180 miles from the confines of Arabia: and there entreth Phoenice. Within-forth [unspec K] in the countrey, are the townes of Samaria, and Neapolis, which before-time was named Ma∣mortha (or Maxbota.) Also Sabaste vpon the mountain, and Gamala, which yet standeth higher than it.

CHAP. XIIII.

¶ Iurie and Galilaea.

ABoue Idumaea and Samaria, Iudaea spreadeth out far in length and breadth. That part of it which ioineth to Syria, is called Galilae: but that which is next to Syria and Egypt, is named Peraea, [i. beyond Io•…•…dan.] Full of rough mountaines dispersed here and there: and [unspec L] seuered it is from other parts of Iury, by the riuer Iordan. As for the rest of Iudaea, it is diuided into ten gouernments or territories, called Toparchies, in this order following: to wit, that of Hiericho, a vaile richly planted with Date trees: Emmaus, well watered with fountaines: Lyd∣da, Ioppica, Accrabatena, Gophnitica, Thamnitica, Betholene, Tephenae, and Orine, wherein stood Ierusalem, the goodliest citie of all the East parts, and not of Iury onely. In it also is the principalitie Herodium, with a famous towne of that name.

CHAP. XV. [unspec M]

¶ Iordane the Riuer.

THe riuer Iordan springeth from the fountaine Paneades, which gaue the Syrname to the citie Caesarea, whereof we will speake more. A pleasant riuer it is, and as the site of the countrey will permit and giue leaue, winding and turning in and out, seeking as it were for

loue and fauour, and applying it selfe to please the neighbor inhabitants. Full against his will, [unspec A] as it were, he passeth to the lake of Sodom, Asphaltites, that ill-fauored and cursed lake: and in the end falleth into it, and is swallowed vp of it, where amongst those pestilent and deadly wa∣ters, he loseth his owne that are so good and wholesome. And therefore to keep himselfe out of it as long as he possibly could, vpon the first opportunity of any vallies, hee maketh a lake, which many call Genesara, which is 16 miles long, and 6 broad. The same lake is enuironed with diuers faire and beautifull townes; to wit, on the East side, with Iulias and Hippo; on the South, with Tarichea, of which name, the lake by some is called Tarichion; and on the West, with Tiberias, an healthfull place for the baines there of hot waters.

CHAP. XVI. [unspec B]

¶ Asphaltites.

ASphaltites, or the lake of Sodom, breedeth and bringeth forth nothing but Bitumen; and thereupon it tooke the name. No liuing body of any creature doth it receiue into it: buls and camels swim and flote aloft vpon it. And hereupon ariseth that opinion which goeth of it, That nothing there wil go downe and sink to the bottome. This lake in length exceedeth 100 miles, 25 miles ouer it is at the broadest place, and six at the narrowest. On the East, the A∣rabian Nomades confront it; and on the South side, Machaerus regardeth it: in time past, the se∣cond fortresse of Iudaea, and principall next to Ierusalem. On rhe same coast, there is a fountain of hot waters, wholesome and medicinable, named Callirhoe, and good against many diseases. The very name that it carrieth, importeth no lesse praise and commendation. [unspec C]

CHAP. XVII.

¶ The people Esseni.

ALong the West coast inhabit the Esseni. A nation this is, liuing alone and solitarie, and of all others throughout the world most admirable and wonderfull. Women they see none: carnal lust they know not; they handle no mony; they lead their life by themselues, and keepe company onely with Date trees. Yet neuerthelesse, the countrey is euermore well peopled, for that daily numbers of strangers resort thither in great frequencie from other parts: and namely, such as be weary of this miserable life, are by the surging waues of frowning [unspec D] fortune driuen hither, to sort with them in their manner of liuing. Thus for many thousand yeares [a thing incredible, and yet most true] a people hath continued without any supply of new breed and generation. So mightily increase they euermore, by the wearisome estate & re∣pentance of other men. Beneath them stood sometime Engadda, for fertilitie of soile and plen∣ty of Date-tree groues, accounted the next city in all Iudaea, to Ierusalem. Now, they say, it ser∣ueth for a place only to inter their dead: beyond it, there is a castle or fortresse scituat on a rock, and the same not far from the lake of Sodom Asphaltites. And thus much as touching Iudaea.

CHAP. XVIII.

¶ Decapolis. [i. Coele-Syria.] [unspec E]

THere ioyneth to it on Syria side, the region Decapolis, so called of the number of towns and cities in it. Wherein, all men obserue not the same, nor make like account: howbeit most men speake of Damascus and Opotos, watered with the riuer Chrysorrhora. Also, Philadelphia, renowned for the fruitfull territory about it. Moreouer, of Scythopolis, taking name of the Scythians there planted: and before-time Mysa, so named of Prince or Father Bac∣chus, by reason that his nource there was buried. Also Gadara, scituate on the riuer Hieromiax, running euen before it. Besides, the aboue-named Hippos Dios. Likewise Pella, enriched with the good fountains: and last of all, Galaza and Canatha. There lie betweene and about these cities, certaine Royalties called Triarchies, containing euery one of them as much as an whole [unspec F] countrey: and reduced they be as it were into seuerall countries; namely, Trachonitis Panias, wherein standeth Caesarea, with the fountain aboue-said, Abi••a, Arca, Ampeloessa, and Gabe.

CHAP. XIX.

¶ Tyre and Sidon. [unspec G]

REturne now we must to the sea-coast of Phoenice. A riuer runneth there called Crocodi∣lon, whereupon stood a towne in times past bearing the name. Also there remain in those parts the bare reliques still of cities, to wit, Dorum, Sycaminum, the cape or promontory Carmelum; and a towne vpon the hill so named; but in old time called Ecbatana. Neere therto Getta and Iebba; the riuer Pagida or Pelus, carrying chrystall glasse with his sands vpon the shore. This riuer commeth out of the meere Ceudeuia, from the foot of mount Carmel. Neere vnto it is the city Ptolemais, erected in forme of a colony, by Claudius Caesar; in ancient time called Are. The towne Ecdippa, and the cape Album. Then followes the noble citie Tyrus, in old time an Island, lying almost 3 quarters of a mile within the deepe sea: but now, by the great [unspec H] trauell and deuises wrought by Alexander the Great at the siege thereof, ioyned to the firme ground: renowmed, for that out of it haue beene three other cities of ancient name, to wit, Lep∣tis, Vtica, and that great Carthage, which so long stroue with the Empire of Rome for the mo∣narchy and dominion of al the whole world: yea, and Gades, diuided as it were from the rest of the earth, were peopled from hence. But now at this day all the reputation and glory thereof, stands vpon the die of purple & crimson colors. The compasse of it is 19 miles, so ye comprise Palaetyrus within it. The very towne it selfe alone, taketh vp 22 stadia. Neere vnto it are these townes, Luhydra, Sarepta, and Ornython: also Sydon, where the faire and cleer glasses be made, and which is the mother of the great citie Thebes in Boeotia.

CHAP. XX. [unspec I]

¶ The mount Libanon.

BEhind it, beginneth the mount Libanus, and for 1500 stadia reacheth as farre as to Smyr∣na, whereas Coele-Syria takes the name. Another promontory there is as big ouer-against it, called Antilibanus, with a vallie lying betweene, which in old time ioyned to the other Libanus with a wall. Being past this hill, the region Decapolis sheweth it selfe to you within-forth, called Decapolis; and the aboue-named Tetrachies or Realmes with it, and the whole largenesse that Palestine hath. But in that coast and tract still along the foot of the mount Li∣banus, there is the riuer Magoras: also the colonie Berytus, called Foelix Iulia. The towne Le∣ontos; [unspec K] the riuer Lycos: also Palaebyblos, [i. Byblos the old.] Then ye come vpon the riuer Ado∣nis, and so to these townes, Byblos [the new,] Botrys, Gigarta, Trieris, Calamos, and Tripolis, vnder the Tyrians, Sydonians, and Aradians. Then meet you with Orthosia, and the riuer Eleu∣theros. Also these townes, Simyra, Marathos; and ouer-against, Aradus, a towne of seuen stadia: and an Island lesse than a quarter of a mile from the Continent. When you are once past the countrie, where the said mountaines doe end, and the plaines lying betweene, then beginneth the mount Bargylis: and there, as Phoenice endeth, so begins Syria againe. In which countrie are Carne, Balanea, Paltos, and Gabale: also the Promontorie, whereupon standeth the free city Laodicea, together with Diospolis, Heraclea, Charadrus, and Posidium.

CHAP. XXI. [unspec L]

¶ Syria, Antiochena.

GO forward in this tract, and you shall come to the cape of Syria Atiochena: within-forth is seated the noble and free citie it selfe Antiochena, surnamed Epidaphne: through the mids whereof runneth the riuer Orontes. But vpon the very cape, is the free citie Seleu∣cia, named also Pieria.

CHAP. XXII.

¶ The mount Casius. [unspec M]

ABoue the citie Seleucia, there is another mountaine named Casius, as well as that other, which confronterh Arabia. This hill is of that heigth, that if a man be vpon the top of it in the darke night season, at the reliefe of the fourth watch, he may behold the Sunne ari∣sing.

So that with a little turning of his face and body, hee may at one time see both day and [unspec A] night. To get vp by the ordinary high-way to the very pitch of it, a man might fetch a compas of 19 miles; but climbe directly vpright it is but 4 miles. In the borders of this country runs the riuer Orontes, which ariseth between Libanus and Antilibanus, neere to Heliopolis. Then the towne Rhosos appeares: and behind it, the streight passages and gullets betwixt the moun∣taines Rhotij and Taurus, which are called Portae Syriae. In this tract or coast stands the town Myriandros, the hill Avanus (where is the towne Bomilae, which separateth Cilicia from the Syrians.

CHAP. XXIII.

¶ Coele-Syria, [or high Syria.]

IT remaineth now to speake of the townes and cities in the midland parts within the firme [unspec B] land: and to begin with Coele Syria, it hath in it Apamia, separated from the Nazerines te∣trarchy by the riuer Marsia: likewise Bambyce, otherwise called Hierapolis; but of the Sy∣rians, Magog. There is honored the monstrous idoll of the Meermaid, Atargatis, called of the Greeks Decreto. Also Chalcis, with this addition, Vpon Belus: from which the region Chal∣cidene, most fertile of all Syria, taketh name. Then haue you the quarter Cyrrhistica, with Cirrhus, Gazatae, Gindarenes, and Gabenes. Moreouer, two Tetrarchies, called Granucomatae. Moreouer, the Hemisenes, Hylates, the Ituraeans country (and principally those of them who are named Betarrani) and the Mariammitanes. The Tetrarchie or Principalitie named Mam∣misea, the city Paradisus, Pagrae, Pinarites, and two Seleuciae, besides the aboue named, one [unspec C] called, Vpon Euphrates; and the other, Vpon Belus: and last of all, the Carditenses. The rest of Syria hath these States (besides those which shall be spoken of with the riuer Euphrates) the Arethusians, Beraeenses, and Epiphanenses: and Eastward, the Laodicenes, namely those who are entituled, Vpon Libanus: the Leucadians and Larissaeans: besides 17 Tetrarchies re∣duced into the forme of realmes, but their names are barbarous.

CHAP. XXIV.

¶ Euphrates.

ANd here me-thinks is the fittest and meetest place to speake of Euphrates. The source of [unspec D] it, by report of them that saw it last and neerest, is in Caranitis, a state vnder the gouern∣ment of Armenia the greater: and those are Domitius and Corbulo, who say, that it sprin∣geth in the mountaine Aba. But Licinius Mutianus affirmeth, that it issueth from vnder the foot of the mountaine which they call Capotes, 12 miles higher into the countrey than is Simyra: and that in the beginning it was called Pyxirates. It runs first directly to Derxene, and so forth to Ana also, excluding the regions Armeniae, the greater as wel as the lesse, from Cappadocia: The Dastusae from Simyra are 75 miles: from thence it is nauigable to Paestona, 50 miles: from it to Melitene in Cappadocia, 74 miles. So forward to Elegia in Armenia, ten miles; where he receiueth these riuers, Lycus, Arsania, and Arsanus. Neere to Elegia he meeteth afront with the hil Taurus: yet stayeth he not there, but preuaileth a pierceth thorow it, although it beare [unspec E] a bredth there of 12 miles. At this entry where he breaketh thorow the hill they cal him Omi∣ras, and so soon as he hath made way and cut thorow it he is named Euphrates. Being past this mountaine, he is full of rocks and very violent: howbeit he passeth through the country of the Moeri, where he carieth a stream of 3 Schoenes bredth, where he parts Arabia on the left hand, from Comagene on the right. And neuerthelesse, euen there wheras he conquereth and getteth the vpper hand of Taurus, he can abide a bridge to be made ouer him. At Claudiopolis in Ca∣padocia he courseth Westward: and now the mountain Taurus, though resisted and ouercome at first, impeacheth and hindereth him of his way, and notwithstanding (I say) he was ouermat∣ched and dismembred one piece from another, he gets the better of him another way, breaking his course now, and driuing him perforce into the South. Thus Nature seems to match the for∣ces [unspec F] of these two champions equally in this maner, That as Euphrates goes on stil without stay as far as he will, so Taurus will not suffer him yet to run what way he wil. Now when these Ca∣taracts and downfalls of the riuer are once past, it is nauigable againe, and forty miles from that

place standeth Samosata the head city of Comagena. Now hath Arabia beside the townes a∣foresaid, [unspec G] Edessa, somtime called Antiochea, Callirrhoe, taking name of the fountain: and Car∣rae, so famous and renowned for the defeature there of Crassus and his army. Hereunto ioineth the gouernment and territorie of Mesopotamia, which also taketh the first beginning from the Assyrians, in which stand the townes Anthemusa and Nicephorium. Hauing passed this coun∣try, ye straitway enter vpon the Arabians called Rhetavi, whose capitall city is Singara. Now to returne to Samosatae, from it in the coast of Syria, the riuer Marsyas runneth into Euphra∣tes. As Gingla limiteth Comagene, so the land of the Meri beginneth there. The towns Epi∣phania and Antiochia haue the riuer running close to them, and hereupon they haue this addi∣tion in their names, Standing vpon Euphrates. Zenyma likewise, 72 miles from the Samosa∣tae, is innobled for the passage ouer Euphrates: for ioined it is to Apamia, right against, by a bridge, which Seleucus the founder of both caused to be made. The people that ioine hard to [unspec H] Mesopotamia be called Rhoali. As for the townes of Syria which be vpon this riuer, are Euro∣pum, Thapsicum in times past, at this present Amphipolis; and last of all the Arabian Scaeni∣tae. Thus passeth Euphrates, as far as to the land Vra, where turning his course to the East, hee leaueth behinde him the Desarts of Palmyra in Syria, which reach to the city Petra; and to the country of Arabia Foelix.

CHAP. XXV.

¶ Palmyra.

THe noble city Palmyra is passing well seated, as well for the riches of the soile, as for a∣boundance [unspec I] of waters, which imbelish and set out the country on euery side. As rich and long as it is, the territory all about is inuironed and inclosed with bars of sand. And as if Nature had a desire to exempt it from all other lands to liue apart in peace, shee hath set it iust in the middest and confines, between two puissant and mighty empires, to wit, the Romans and Parthians: for there is not so soone any war proclaimed between those two States and Monar∣chies, but at first they haue on both sides a regard of it as a neutre. It is from Seleucia of the Parthians, namely that vpon Tigris, 537 miles: and from the next port or coast of Syria, 252: and from Damasco 27 neerer.

CHAP. XXVI. [unspec K]

¶ Hierapolis.

BEneath the desarts and wildernesse of Palmyra lieth the countrey Stelendena, wherein are the cities named at this day Hierapolis, Beroea, and Chalcis. Beyond Palmyra also, He∣mesa taketh vp some part of those said desarts: and likewise Elutium, neerer to Petra by one halfe than is Damascus. And next to Afura standeth Philiscum, a towne of the Parthians vpon Euphrates: from which by water it is a iourney of ten daies to Seleucia, and from thence as many likewise to Babylon: for Euphrates, 83 miles from Zeugma, about the village Massi∣ce, diuideth it selfe into two armes. On the left side he passeth into Mesopotamia, euen thorow Seleucia, and about it entreth into the riuer Tygris, which runneth hard by: but on the right hand he carieth a current in his chanell toward Babylon, the chiefe city somtime of Chaldaea, [unspec L] and passing through the midst thereof, as also of another called Otris, he parts asunder into sun∣dry lakes and meeres. And there an end of Euphrates. He riseth and falleth at certain times af∣ter the order of Nilus: yet some little difference there is betweene them in the manner, for he ouerfloweth Mesopotamia when the Sun is in the 20 degree of Cancer, and begins againe to diminish and slake when the Sun is past Leo, and newly entred into Virgo: so as in the 29 de∣gree of Virgo he is downe again, and come to his ordinary course.

CHAP. XXVII. [unspec M]

¶ Cilicia, and the nations adioyning, to wit, Isauricoe, Homonades, Pisidia, Lycaonia, Pamphylia, the mountaine Taurus, and Lycia.

BVt time it is to returne now to the coasts of Syria, and to Cilicia that confronts it. Where in the first place we meet with the riuer Diaphanes, the mountain Crocodilus, the streights

and passages of the mount Amanus: more riuers also, to wit, Andricon, Pinarus, and Lycus, as [unspec A] also the gulfe Issicus. The towne Issa standeth vpon it, then come we to Alexandria to the Ri∣uer Chlorus, the free towne Aege, the riuer Pyramus, and the streights in the entrance to Cili∣cia. Beyond them we encounter the townes Mallos & Magarsos: as for Tarsos it is more with∣in the countrey. From this towne we enter vpon the plaines of Aleij, and so forward to these townes, Cassipolis, and Mopsum, which is free, and standeth vpon the riuer Pyramus; Thynos, Zephyrium, and Anchialae. On forward you shal haue the riuers Saros and Sydnus, which runs through: Tarsus a free city far from the sea: then are ye in the country Celeuderitis, together with the capitall towne thereof. And anon ye shall set foot in a place called Nymphaeum, and Soloe Cilicij now Pompeiopolis, Adana, Cibira, Pinara, Pedalie, Halix, Arsinoe, Tabae, & Do∣ron: and neere the sea side you shall finde a towne, an harbour, and a caue, named all Corycos. [unspec B] Soon after, the riuer Calycadnus. The cape Sarpedon, the townes Olme and Mylae, the Cape and towne both of Venus, the very next harbor from whence men passe into the Isle Cypres. But in the maine land you shall finde these townes, Myanda, Anemurium, Coracesium: and the ri∣uer Melas, the antient bound that limiteth Cilicia. Farther within-forth are to be spoken of, the Anazarbenes, at this day Caesar Augustani; Castabla, Epiphania, before-time Eniandos, Eleusa, and Iconium: Seleucia vpon the riuer Calicadmus, sirnamed also Trachiotis, a city re∣moued backward from the sea, where it was called Hormia. Furthermore, within the country, the riuers Liparis, Bombos, and Paradisus. Last of all, the mountaine Iubarus. All Cosmogra∣phers haue ioyned Pamphylia to Cilicia, and neuer regarded the Nation of Isaurica, being a country by it selfe, hauing within it these towns, Isaura, Clibanus, Lalassis. And it shoots down to the sea side, full vpon the frontiers of the country Anemurium aboue-said. In like sort, as [unspec C] many as haue set forth maps and descriptions of the world, had no knowledge at all of the Na∣tion Homonades confining vpon it, notwithstanding they haue a good towne within it, called Homona. Indeed the other fortresses, viz. 44, lie hidden close among the hollow vallies & hils of that country. There inhabit the mountainers ouer their heads, the Pisidians, somtime called Sobymi, whose chiefe colony is Caesaria, the same that Antiochia. Their townes be Oroanda and Sagalessos. This nation is inclosed as it were within Lycaonia, lying within the iurisdicti∣on of the lesse Asia, and euen so together with it, the Philomelians, Timbrians, Leucolithi, Pel∣teni, and Hyrienses resort thither for law and iustice. There is a gouernment or Tetrarchy also, out of the quarter of Lycaonia, on that side that bordereth vpon Galatia; vnto which belong 14 States or cities, the chiefe whereof is called Iconium. As for the nations of Lyconia, those [unspec D] of any note be, Tembasa vpon Taurus, Sinda in the confines of Galatia, and Cappadocia. But on the side thereof aboue Pamphilia, ye meet with Myliae, discended in old time from Thrace, who haue for their head city Aricanda. As for Pamphilia, it was in antient time called Mopso∣pia. The Pamphylian sea ioineth to the Cilician. The townes scituate vpon that coast, be Side, Aspendus on the hill, Plantanistus, and Perga. Also the cape Leucolla, the mount Sardemisus, the riuer Eurymedon, running hard by Aspendum. Moreouer, Cataractes the riuer, neere vnto which stand Lyrnessus and Olbia; and the vtmost towne of all that coast Phaselis. Fast vpon it lieth the Lycian sea, and the nation of the Lycians, where the sea makes a huge great gulfe. The mountaine Taurus likewise, confining vpon the Levant sea, doth limit Lycia and Cilicia, with the promontorie Chelidonium. This Taurus is a mighty mountain, and determineth as [unspec E] a judge an infinite number of nations. So soone as he is risen from the coast of the East Indian sea hee parteth in twaine, and taking the right hand passeth Northward, and on the left hand Southward, somwhat bending into the West: yea, and diuiding Asia through the middest, and (but that he meeteth with the seas) ready to stop and dam vp the whole earth besides. He reti∣reth back therefore, as being curbed, toward the North, fetching a great circuit, and so making his way, as if Nature of purpose opposed the seas eftsoones against him to bar him of his pas∣sage; of one side the Phoenician sea, of another the great sea of Pontus; the Caspian & Hyrca∣nian seas likewise; and full against him the lake Moeotis. And notwithstanding all these bars, within which he is pent, twined, and wrested, yet maketh he means to haue the mastery, and get from them all: and so winding byas he passeth on, vntill he encounter the Riphaean hils, which [unspec F] are of his owne kinde: and euer as he goeth is entituled with a number of new names. For he is called Imaus where he first beginneth: a little forward, Emodus, Paropamisus, Circius, Ca∣nibades, Parphariades, Choatras, Oreges, Oroandes, Niphates, and then Taurus. Neuerthelesse

where he is highest, and as it were ouer-reacheth himselfe, there they name him Caucasus: [unspec G] where he stretcheth forth his armes like as if he would now and then be doing with the seas, he changeth is name to Sarpedon, Coracesius, and Cragus: and then once again he takes his for∣mer name Taurus, euen where he opens and makes passage as it were to let in the world. And yet for all these waies and ouertures he claimeth his owne stil, and these passages are called by the names of gates, in one place Armeniae, in another Caspiae, and sometimes Ciliciae. Ouer and besides, when he is broken into parcels, and escaped far from the sea, he taketh many names from diuers and sundry nations on euery side: for on the right hand he is termed Hyrcanus, and Caspius: on the left, Pariedrus, Moschicus, Amazonicus, Coraxicus, and Scythicus: and gene∣rally throughout all Greece, Ceraunius.

To returne then to Lycia, being past the foresaid cape there, Chelidonium, ye come to the towne Simena, the hill Chimaera, which casteth flames of fire euery night, the city Hephaesti∣nm, [unspec H] where the mountains about it likewise oftentimes are known to burne. Somtimes the city Olympus stood there, but now nothing to be seene but mountaines, and amongst them these townes, Gage, Corydalla, and Rhodiopolis. On the sea coast, the city Lymira vpon a riuer, to which Aricandus runneth: also the mountaine Massyrites, the cities Andriara and Myra. Also these townes, Apyre, and Antiphellos, which somtime was called Habessus; and more within-forth in a corner, Phellus. Then come ye to Pyrrha, and so to Xanthus, 15 miles from the sea, and to a riuer likewise of that name. Soon after ye meet with Patara, before-time named Sata∣ros, and Sydinia seated vpon an hill, and so to the promontorie Ciagus. Beyond which ye shall enter vpon a gulfe as big as the former, vpon which standeth Pinara and Telmessus, the vtmost bound in the marches of Lycia. In antient time Lycia had in it 60 townes, but now not aboue [unspec I] 36. Of which the principall and of greatest note, besides the aboue named, be Canae, Candiba, where is the famous wood Oenium, Podalia, Choma, vpon the riuer Adesa, Cyane, Ascanda∣lis, Amelas, Noscopium, Tlos, and Telanorus. As for the midland parts of the maine, you shall finde Chabalia, with three townes thereto belonging, Oenonda, Balbura, and Bubon.

When you are beyond Telmessus you meet with the Asiaticke sea, otherwise called Carpa∣thium, and this coast is properly called Asia. Agrippa hath diuided it in two parts, whereof the one by his description confronteth vpon Phrygia and Lycaonia Eastward: but on the West side it is limited with the Aegean sea. Southward it bounds vpon Egypt, and in the North vp∣on Paphlagonia: the length thereof by his computation is 470 miles, the bredth 300. As for the other he saith, That Eastward it confineth vpon Armenia the lesse: Westward vpon Phry∣gia, [unspec K] Lycaonia, and Pamphylia: on the North it butteth vpon the prouince or realm of Pontus, and on the South side is inclosed with the Pamphylian sea. He addeth moreouer, that it con∣taineth 575 miles in length, and 325 in bredth. The next coast bordering thereupon is Caria: and when you are past it, Ionia, and beyond that, Aeolis. As for Caria it incloseth Doris in the mids, enuironing it round on euery side, as far as to the sea. In it is the Cape Pedalium, also the riuer Glaucus, charged with the riuer of Telmessus. The townes of any respect be Daedala and Crya, peopled only with banished persons. Therein you finde the riuer Axoum, and the towne Calydua.

CHAP. XXVIII. [unspec L]

¶ The riuer Indus.

THe riuer Indus, arising from the mountaines of the Cybirates, receiueth into it 60 other running riuers, maintained with springs, of other small riuers and brookes fed with land flouds, aboue 100. Vpon it standeth the free towne Caunos, and a little off, Pyrnos. Soon after ye meet with the port Cressa, ouer against which is discouered the Island Rhodus, within the kenning of twenty miles. Being past that hauen, you shall enter vpon the plaine Loryma, vpon which are seated the townes Tysanusa, Tarydion, Larymna. Then meet you with the [unspec M] gulfe Thymnias, and the cape Aphrodisias: and on the other side of it the towne Hyda, and a∣nother gulf Schoenus. Then followes the country Bubassus, wherein stood in antient time, the towne Acanthus, otherwise called Dulopolis. Also vpon the cape there, the free city Gnidos, Triopia, then Pegusa, called likewise Stadia. Beyond which you enter into the Countrey of

Doris. But before we passe farther, meet it were to speake of those cities and States which are [unspec A] in the midland countrie, and which lie behind, and namely of one, named Cibiratica. The towne it selfe is in Phrygia, and to it resort for law and iustice 25 cities;

CHAP. XXIX.

¶ Laodicia, Apamia, Ionia, Ephesus.

THe principall citie in those quarters (of the Cibirites) is Laodicia. Seated it is vpon the riuer Lycus: and yet there run hard to the sides thereof two other riuers, Asopus, and Ca∣per. This citie in times past was called Diospolis, & afterwards Rhoas. The other nations belonging to that iurisdiction of the Cibirates, worth the naming, by the Hydrelites, Themi∣sones, [unspec B] and Hierapolites. Another countie court or towne of resort there is, which taketh the name of Synnada: and to it repaire for iustice, the Licaonians, Appians, Encarpenes, Dorylaei, Midaei, Iulienses, and other states of no great reckoning, fifteene. A third Seignorie or Shire there is that goes to Apamia, which in old time was called Celaenae, and afterwards Ciboron: scituate it is at the foot of the hill Signia, enuironed with three riuers, Marsias, Obrima, and Orga, falling all into the great riuer Maeander. As for the riuer Marsias (which a little from his spring was hid vnder the ground, whereas Marsyas the musitian stroue with Apollo in playing vpon the flute) sheweth himselfe again in Aulocrenae, for so is the vallie called, ten miles from Apamia, as men trauell the high way to Phrygia. Vnder this iurisdiction, we should do well to [unspec C] name the Metropolites, Dionysopolites, Euphorbenes, Acmoneses, Peltenes, and Silbians. There are besides to the number of 60 small towns of no account. But within the gulfe of Do∣ris there stand Leucopolis, Amaxites, Eleus, and Euthenae. Moreouer, other townes of Caria, Pitaium, Eutaniae, and Halicarnassus. And to this citie were annexed, as subiect and homages by Alexander the great, six other townes, namely, Theangela, Sibde, Medmossa, Euranium, Pe∣dasium, and Telnessum: which townes are inhabited betweene the two gulfes, Ceramicus, and Iasius. From thence yee come to Myndus, and where sometime stood Palaemindus, Neapolis, Nariandus, Carianda, the free citie Termera, Bergyla, and the town Iasus which gaue the name to the gulfe Iasius. But Caria is most renowned & glorious for the places of name within it in the firme land: for therein are these cities, to wit, Mylasa free, and Antiochia, now standing [unspec D] where sometime were the townes, Seminethos, and Cranaos: and enuironed now it is about with the riuers Maeander, and Mossinus. In the same tract stood sometime Maeandropolis also. There is besides, the citie Eumenia, vpon the riuer Cludrus: the riuer Glaucus: the sowne Ly∣sias and Orthasia. The tract or marches of Berecinthus, Nysa, Trallais, which also is named Euanthia, Seleucia, and Antiochia; which is scituate vpon the riuer Eudone that runneth hard by it, and Thebanis which passes quite through it. Some there be who report, that the dwarfes called Pigmaei, sometime there dwelt. In which region besides, were these townes, Thydonos, Pyrrha, Eurome, Heraclea, Amyzon, and the free citie Alabanda, whereof that shierewicke or jurisdiction tooke name. Also the free towne Stratonicea, Hynidos, Ceramus, Troezene, and Phorontis. Yea there be nations farther remote, that resort thither to pleade and haue iustice in that court: namely, the Othroniens, Halydiens, or Hyppines, Xystianes, Hydissenses, Apollo∣niates, [unspec E] Ttapezopolites, and of free condition the Aphrodsians. Ouer and besides these, there are Cossinus, & Harpasa, scituate vpon the riuer Harpasus, which also ran vnder Trallicon, when such a towne there was. As for the country of Lydia, watered it is in many places with the re∣course of Maeanders streame, winding and turning in and out, as his manner is: and it reacheth aboue Ionia: confining vpon Phrygia in the East, vpon Misia in the North, and in the South side enclosing all the countrie of Caria. This Lydia was sometimes named Moenia. The capi∣tall citie of this region, is Sardis, seated vpon the side of the mountaine Tmolus, called before-time Timolus, a hill well planted with vineyards. Moreouer, renowmed is this country for the riuer Pactolus issuing forth of this mountaine; which riuer is called likewise Chrysorrhoa: as also for the fountain Tarnes The city aboue said, was commonly by the Moeonias called Hyde, [unspec F] famous for the meer or lake of Gyges. Al that iurisdiction is at this day called Sardinia. Thi∣ther resort besides the abouenamed, the Caduenes, descended from the Macedonians; the Lo∣renes, Philadelphenes, yea and the very Moenians, such as inhabite vpon the riuer Cogamus at the foot of Tmolus; and the Tripolitanes who together with the Antoniopolites, dwel vpon

the riuer Maeander. Furthermore, the Apollonos-Hieritae, Mysotmolites, and others of small [unspec G] reputation.

Ionia beginneth at the gulfe Iasius, and all the coast thereof is very full of creekes and rea∣ches. The first gulfe or creeke therein is Basilicus; and ouer it the cape Posideum, and the town called somtime, the Oracle of Branchidae, but at this day, of Apollo Didymaeus, 20 stadia from the sea side. Beyond which 180 stadia, standeth Milletus, the head citie of Ionia, named in time past Lelegeis, Pityusa, and Anactoria. From which, as from a mother citie, are descended more than eighty others, all built along the sea coast by the Millesians. Neither is this city to be defrauded of her due honour, for bringing forth that noble citizen Cadmus, who deuised and taught first to write in Prose. Concerning the riuer Maeander, it issueth out of a lake at the foot of the mountain Aulocrene: and passing vnder many townes, and filled still with as many riuers running into it, it fetcheth such windings to and fro, that oftentimes it is taken for to run back [unspec H] againe from whence it came. The first countrie that it passeth through, is Apamia: and from thence it proceedeth to Eumenitica, and so forward through the plaines Bergylletici. Last of all, hee commeth gently into Caria, and when hee hath watered and ouerflowed all that land with a most fat and fruitful mud that he leaueth behind him, about ten stadia from Miletus, he dischargeth himselfe into the sea. Neer to that riuer, is the hill Latmus: the citie Heraclea, sur∣named Caryca, of a hill of that name: also Myus, which as the report goeth, was the first citie founded by the Ionians after their arriuall from Athens, Naulochum, and Pyrene. Also vpon the sea coast, the towne called Trogilia, and the riuer Gessus. Moreouer, this quarter all the Io∣nians resort vnto in their deuotion, and therefore named it is Panionia. Neere vnto it was built a priueledged place for all fugitiues, as appeareth by the name Phygela: as also the town Mara∣thesium [unspec I] stood there sometime: and aboue it, the renowmed citie Magnesia, surnamed, Vpon Maeander; of the foundation of that other Magnesia in Thessalie. From Ephesus it is 15 miles; and from Trallais thither, it is three miles farther. Beforetime, called it was Thessaloce, & An∣drolitia: and being otherwise situate vpon the strond, it tooke away with it other Islands called Derasides, and ioine them to the firme land from out of the sea. More within the maine stan∣deth Thyatira (in old time called Pelopia and Euhippa) vpon the riuer Lycus. But vpon the sea coast, yee haue Manteium, and Ephesus, founded in times past by the Amazones. But many names it had gone through before; for in time of the Troiane war, Alopes it was called: soone after, Ortygia, and Morges: yea, and it took name Smyrne, with addition of Trachaea, [i. rough] Samornium, and Ptelea. Mounted it is vpon the hill Pione, and hath the riuer Caystrus vnder [unspec K] it, which commeth out of the Cilbian hills, and bringeth downe with it many other riuers, and principally is maintained and enriched with the lake Pegaseum, which dischargeth it selfe by reason of the riuer Phyrites that runneth into it. With these riuers he bringeth downe a good quantitie of mud, whereby he increaseth the land: for now already a good way within the land, is the Island Syrie, ioined to the continent. A fountain there is within the citie, called Callipia; and two riuers (height both Selinus) comming from diuers parts, enuiron the temple of Diana. After you haue been at Ephesus, you come to another Manteium, inhabited by the Colopho∣nians: and within, the country Colophon it selfe, with the riuer Halesus vnder it. Then meet you with the noble temple of Apollo Clarius, and Lebedos. And in this quarter somtime was to be seen the towne Notium. The promontory also Coryceon is in this coast: and the mountaine [unspec L] Mimas, which reaches out 250 miles, and endeth at length in the plaines within the continent that ioyne vnto it. This is the place, wherein Alexander the Great commanded a trench seuen miles long and an halfe to be cut through the plain, for to ioyne two gulfes in one, and to bring Erythree and Mimas together for to be enuironed round therewith. Neere this city Erythree were sometimes the townes, Pteleon, Helos, and Dorion: now, there is the riuer Aleon, and the cape Corineum: vpon the mount Mimas, Clazomene, Partheniae, and Hippi called Chytopho∣ria, hauing beene sometime Islands: the same, Alexander caused to be vnited to the firme land for the space of two stadia. There haue perished within-forth and beene drowned, Daphnus, Hermesia, and Sipylum, called before-time Tantalis, notwithstanding it had beene the chiefe citie of Moeonia, situate in that place, where now is the meere or lake Sale. And for that cause [unspec M] Archaeopolis succeeded in that preeminence, and after it Colpe, and in stead thereof Lebade. As you returne from thence toward the sea side, about twelue miles off, you come vpon the citie Smyrna, built by an Amazonite, but repaired and fortified by Alexander the Great. Si∣tuat

it is pleasantly vpon the riuer Melis, which hath his head and source not far off. The most renowned hils in Asia for the most part, spred themselues at large in this tract, to wit, Mastu∣sia, [unspec A] on the back side of Smyrna; and Termetis, that meets close to the foot of Olympus. This hil Olympus endeth at the mountain Tmolus; Tmolus at Cadmus; and Cadmus at Taurus. When you are past Smyrna, you come into certain plains, occasioned by the riuer Hermus, and therefore adopted in his name. This riuer hath his beginning neer to Doryleus a city of Phry∣gia, and takes into it many other cities; & principally Phryge, which giues name to the whole nation, and diuides Phrygia and Caria asunder. Moreouer Lyllus & Crios, which also are big and great by reason of other riuers of Phrygia, Mysia, and Lydia, which enter into them. In the very mouth of this riuer stood somtime the towne Temnos; but now in the very vtmost nouke of the gulfe certain stony rocks called Myrmeces. Also the towne Leuce vpon the cape so cal∣led: [unspec B] somtime an Island it was: and last of all Phocaea, which limiteth and boundeth Ionia. But to returne to Smyrna; the most part of Aeolia, whereof we will speake anon, repaires com∣monly thither to their Parliament and Assises. Likewise the Macedonians, syrnamed Hircani, as also the Magnetes from Sipylum. But vnto Ephesus, which is another principal and famous city of Asia, resort those that dwell farther off, to wit, the Caesarians, Metropolites, Cylbianes; the Myso-Macedonians, as well the higher as the lower, the Mastaurians, Brullites, Hyppepoe∣nians, and Dios-Hieriteae.

CHAP. XXX.

¶ Aeolis, Troas, and Pergamus. [unspec C]

Aeolis, in old time Mysia, confronts vpon Ionia: so doth Troas, which bounds on the coast of Hellespontus. Being then past Phocaea, you meet with the port Ascanius, & the place where sometime Larissa stood: and now Cyme, and Myrina which loueth to be called Sebastopolis. Within the firme land, Aegae, Attalia, Posidea, Neon-tichos, and Temnos. But vpon the coast, the riuer Titanus, and a city taking name thereof. The time was when a man might haue seen there the city Grynia: but now there is but an hauen and the bare ground, by reason that the Island is taken into it, and ioyned thereto. The towne Elaea is not farre from thence, and the riuer Caicus comming out of Mysia. Moreouer, the towne Pytane, and the Ri∣uer Canaius. Other townes there were in old time, but they are lost and perished, namely, Ca∣nae, [unspec D] Lysimachia, Atarnaea, Carenae, Cisthene, Cilla, Cocillum, Thebae, Astyre, Chrysa, Paloe∣stepsis, Gergithos, and Neandros. Yet at this day are to be seen the city Perperene, & beyond it the tract and territory Heracleotes, the towne Coryphas, the riuer Gryliosolius, the quarter called Aphrodisias, before-time Politice. Orgas the country, and Scepsis the new. The riuer Evenus, vpon the banke whereof stood once Lyrmessos, and Miletos, but now they are gon. In this tract is the mountain Ida. Moreouer, in the sea coast, Adramytteos, somtime called Peda∣sus, where the Parliament and Terme is holden, and whereof the gulfe is named Adramitteos. Other riuers be there besides, to wit, Astron, Cormalos, Eryannos, Alabastros, and Hieros out of Ida. Within-forth be Gargara, a towne and •…•…ill both. And then again toward the sea side, Antandros, before-time called Edonis: then, Cymeris, and Assos, which also is Apollonia. [unspec E] Long since also there was a towne called Palamedium. After all these, you come vpon the cape Leolon, the middle frontier between Aeolus and Troas. And there had bin in antient time the city Polymedia, and Cryssa, with another Laryssa also. As for the Temple Smintheum it re∣maineth still. But farther within, the towne Colone that was, is now decayed and gon, and the traffique and negotiation in all affaires turned from thence to Adramytteum. Now as tou∣ching the territorie of the Apolloniates, after you be past the riuer Rhyndicus, you finde these States; the Eresians, Miletopolites, Poemanenes, Macedonians, Aschilacae, Polychnaei, Pio∣nites, Cilices, and Mandagandenes. In Mysia, the Abrettines, and those called Hellespontij; besides those of base account and estimation. The first city you encounter in Troas, is Amaxi∣tus: then Cebrenia and Troas it selfe, named also Antigonia, now Alexandria, and is entitu∣led [unspec F] a Roman Colony. Beyond Troas standeth the towne Nee: there runneth also Scamander, a riuer nauigable; and Sigaeum, a Towne sometime, vpon the cape so called. At length you come to the hauen of the Greeks, into which Xanthus and Somoe is runne ioyntly together, as

also Palae-Scamander, but first it maketh a lake. The rest that Homer so much speaks of, namely [unspec G] Rhaesius, Heptaporus; Caresus, and Rhodius, there is no mention or token remaining of them: as for the riuer Granicus, it runneth from diuers parts into the chanel of Propontis. Yet there is at this day a little city called Scamandria: and one mile and a halfe from the port or sea, the free city Ilium, that enioyeth many immunties and liberties; of which towne goeth all that great name. Without this gulfe lieth the coast Rhoetea, inhabited with these townes vpon it, namely, Rhoeteum, Dardanium, and Arisbe. There stood sometimes also Acheleum, a towne neere vnto the tombe of Achilles; founded first by the Mityleneans, and afterwards re-edified by the Athenians, vpon the Bay Sigaeum, vnder which his fleet rode at anchor. There also was Acantium, built by the Rhodians, in another coine or canton of that coast, where Aiax was in∣terred, a place thirty stadia distant from Sigaeum, and the very Bay wherein his fleet also lay [unspec H] at harbour. Aboue Aeolis and one part of Troas, within the Continent and firme land there is the towne called Teuthrania, which the Mysians in old time held. And there springeth Caicus the riuer aboue said. A large countrey this is of it selfe, and especially when it was vnited to Mysia, and all so called: containing in it Pioniae, Andera, Ca•…•…e, Stabulum, Conisium, Tegium, Balcea, Tiare, Teuthrane, Sarnaca, Haliserne, Lycide, Parthenium, Thymbrum, Oxiopum, Lyg∣danum, Apollonia, and Pergamus the goodliest city of them all by many degrees: through it passeth the riuer Selinus, and Caetius runneth hard vnder it, issuing out of the mountain Pinda∣sus. And not far from thence is Elea, which as we said standeth vpon the strond. And verily all that tract and iurisdiction is of that city named Perganena. To the Parliament and judiciall Assises there resort the Thyatyrenes, Mygdones, Mossines, Bregmenteni, Hieracomitae, Perpe∣reni, [unspec I] Tyareni, Hierapolenses, Harmatapolites, Attalenses, Pantaenses, Apollonidenses, and other pety cities of no name and account. As for Dardanium, a pretty towne it is, threescore and ten stadia from Rhoeteum. Eighteene miles from thence is the cape Trapeza, where the sea beginneth to rush roughly into the streight Hellespont. Eratosthenes mine Authour saith, That the cities of the Solymi, Leleges, Bebrices, Colycantij and Trepsedores somtime flouri∣shed, but now are vtterly perished. Isidorus reporteth as much of the Arymeos and Capretae, the very place where Apamia was built by Seleucus, betweene Cilicia, Cappadocia, Cataonia, and Armenia: and for that he had vanquished most fierce and cruell nations, at the first he na∣med it Damea.

CHAP. XXXI. [unspec K]

¶ The Islands lying before little Asia, and in the Pamphylian sea. Also Rhodus, Samus, and Chios.

THe first Island of Asia is iust against the mouth or channell of Nilus, called Canopicus of Canopus, (asmen say) the Pilot of K. Menelaus. The second is Pharus, which is ioined to Alexandria by a bridge: in old time it was a daies sailing from Aegypt to it: and now by fires from a watch-tower sailers are directed in the night along the coast of Egypt. Caesar Dictator erected therein a colony. And in truth it serueth in right good stead as a Lanthorne: [unspec L] for the hauens about Alexandri•…•… bevery dangerous and deceitfull, by reason of the barres and shelues in the sea: and there are but three chanels and no more, by which a man may passe safe∣ly to Alexandria, to wit, Tegamum, Posideum, and Taurus. Next to that Isle, in the Phoenician sea before Ioppa, lies Paria, an Isle of no great compasse, for it is all one town. This is the place, folke say, where lady Andromeda was exposed and cast out to a monster. Moreouer, Aredos, the Isle before named, between which and the Continent there is a fountaine, as Mutianus writeth, in the sea where it is fifty cubits deep, out of which fresh water is drawne and conueighed from the very bottome of the sea, through pipes made of leather. As for the Pamphylian sea, it hath some smal Islands of little or no reckoning. In the Cicilian sea there is Cyprus, one of the fiue greatest in those parts, and it lieth East and West full against Cilicia and Syria. The Seate [unspec M] it was in times past, whereunto nine Kingdomes did homage, and of which they held. Ti∣mosthenes saith, That it contained in circuit foure hundred and nineteene miles and an halfe: but Isidorus is of opinion, that it is but three hundred seuenty fiue miles about. The ful length

thereof betweene the two capes, Dinaretas and Acamas, which is Southward, Artemidorus re∣porteth [unspec A] to be a hundred and sixtie miles and a halfe: and Timosthenes two hundred; who saith besides, that sometime it was called Acamantis: according to Philonides, Cerastis: after Xena∣goras, Aspelia, Amathusia, and Macatia: Astynomus calleth it Cryptos and Colinia. Townes there be in it fifteene, Paphos, and Palepaphos (that is, Paphos the new, and Paphos the old,) Curias, Citium, Corineum, Salamis, Amathus, Lepathos, Soloe, Tamaseus, Epidarum, Chytri, Arsinoe, Carpasium, and Golgi. There were in it besides, Cinirya, Marium and Ida∣lium: but now are they come to nothing. And from the cape Anemurium in Cilicia, it is fifty miles distant. All that sea which lieth betweene it and Cilicia, they call Aulon Cilicium; that is to say, The plaine of Cilicia. In this tract is the Island Elaeusa: and foure others be∣sides, euen before the cape, named Clides, ouer-against Syria. Likewise one more, named Stiria, at the other cape or point of Cilicia. Moreouer, against Neampaphos, [i. new Pa∣phos] [unspec B] the Isle Hierocepia. Against Salamis, Salaminae. Moreouer in the Lycian sea there be Isles, Illyris, Telendos, Attelebussa, and three Cypriae, all barren and fruitlesse: besides Dio∣nysia, before-time called Caretha. Moreouer, against the promontory of Taurus, and the Chelidoniae, hurtfull and dangerous to saylers: and besides them as many more, together with the towne Leucola, called Pactiae, namely, Lasia, Nymphous, Macris, Megista, in which the citie that stood is gone. Besides these, many others there were, but of no importance. But ouer-against the cape Chimera, Dolichiste, Chirogilium, Crambussa, Rhoge, Enago•…•…a of eight miles. Against Daedalion, two: against Cryeon, three: Stongyle, moreouer, agaiust Sidynia, which king Antiochus founded: and toward the riuer Glaucus; Lagusa, Macris, Di∣dymae, Helbo, Scope, Aspis, and Telandria: howbeit, the towne in it is sunke and gone: last [unspec C] of all the Isle Rhodussa, next to the harborough or hauen Caunus. But the fairest of all is the Isle Rhodes, a free state, and subiect to none: It containeth in compasse an hundred and thirtie miles, or if we rather giue credit to Isidorus, an hundred and three. Three great townes there be in it well peopled, Lindus, Camirus, and Ialysus, now called Rhodes. By the account of Isidorus it is from Alexandria in Aegypt, fiue hundred seuenty and eight miles: but according to Eratosthenes fiue hundred sixty and nine: after Mutianus fiue hundred, and from Cyprus foure hundred and sixteene. Many names hath it been knowne by in times past, to wit, Ophyusa, A∣steria, Aethraea, Trinacria, Corymbia, Poeessa, Atabyria of king Atabyris and finally, Macaria, and Oloessa. Many other Islands be subiect vnto it, and namely Carpathus (which gaue name [unspec D] to the sea Carpathium) Casos, Achme in times past: and Niseros, distant from Gnidos twelue miles and an halfe, which heretofore had beene called Porphyris. And in the same raunge, Syme, betweene Rhodes and Gnidus, and is in circuit six and thirtie miles and a halfe. En∣riched this Island is with eight commodious hauens. Ouer and besides these, there lie about Rhodes, Cyclopis, Teganon, Cordylusa, foure vnder the name of Diabete: Hymos, Chalcis, wherein standeth a good towne: Seutlusa, Narthecusa, Dimastos, and Progne. Being past Gnidos, yee shall discouer Ciferussa, Therionarce, Calydne beautified with three townes, to wit, Notium, Nisyrus, Mendeterus: with Arconesus the Isle, wherein standeth the towne Ce∣ramus. Vpon the coast of Caria, the Islands, twenty in number, called Argiae: besides, Hye∣tussa, Lepsia, and Leros. But the goodliest & most principall of all others in that coast is Cos, which lieth from Halicarnassus fifteene miles; and in compasse about, it beareth an hundred [unspec E] miles: as men thinke, Merope it was called: as Staphylus saith, Cos: but according to Di∣onysius, Meropis: and afterwards Nymphaea. This Isle is fortified with the mount Prion: and as some thinke, Nisyris the Island, named before-time Porphyris, was of old vnited to this, and afterwards dismembred from it. Beyond this Island yee may discouer Carianda, with a towne in it: and not farre from Halicarnassus, Pidosus. Moreouer, in the guife Ceramicus, Priaponnesus, Hipponesus, Psyra, Mya, Lampsemandus, Passala, Crusa, Pyrrhe, Sepiussa, Me∣lano. And within a little of the maine, another called Cinedopolis, by occasion of certain Ca∣tamites and shamefull baggages that king Alexander the Great left there. The coast of Ionia hath in the sea the Islands Aegeae and Corseae, besides Icaros, spoken of before. Also Lade, be∣fore-time [unspec F] called Latae: and among some other little ones of no worth, the two Camelides neer to Miletus. Moreouer, Mycalum, Trogyliae, Trepsilion, Argennon, Sardalion: & the free Island Samos, which in circuit hath fourescore and seuen miles, or as Isidorus thinkes, a hundred. Ari∣stotle writeth, how at the first it was called Parrhania, afterwards Dryusa, and then Anthemu•…•…a.

Aristocritus giueth it moreouer other names, to wit, Melamphyllus, yea, and Cyparissia: others [unspec G] terme it Partheno-arusa, and Stephane. Riuers in it be Imbrasus, Chesius, and Ibettes: foun∣taines of fresh water, Gigarto, and Leucothea: but no other hils, saue only Cercetius. There lie adioyning to it other Islands besides, namely, Rhypara, Nymphaea, and Achillea. Fourescore and thirteene miles from it, you may discouer Chios, a free state, with a town in it, which is an Island as renowned euery way as Samos: Ephorus by the ancient name calleth it Aethalia: Me∣trodorus and Cheobulus, Chia, of a certaine lady Nymph, whose name was Chio: others suppo∣sed it was so called of Chion, i. Snow: and some would haue it to be Macris and Pityusa. An hill there is in it called Pellenaeas, where the good marble is digged, called Chium. The an∣cient Geographers haue written, That it is a hundred twenty and fiue miles about; and Isidorus addeth nine more. Scituate it is betweene Samos and Lesbos, full opposite vnto the cape Ery∣thrae. [unspec H] Neere vnto it lie Thallusa (which some write Dapnusa,) Oenussa, Elaphites, Euryanassa, Arginussa with a towne. Now are all these about Ephesus, as also the Isles of Pisistratus, so cal∣led: and those which are named Anthinae, to wit, Myonnesus, and Diareusa. In both these the townes that were, be lost through water. Furthermore, the Island Poroselenae with a towne in it, Cerciae, Halone, Commone, Illetia, Lepria, and Rhespheria, Procusae, Bolbulae, Phanae, Pri∣apos, Syce, Melane, Aenare, Sidusa, Pela, Drymusa, Anydros, Scopelos, Sycussa, Marathussa, Psile, Perirheusa, and many others of no reckoning. But among the Isles of name, is that of Teos, lying farther in the deepe sea, which hath a towne in it: and lieth from Chios fourescore and one miles, and as much from the Bay Erythrae. Neere vnto Smyrna are the Islands Peri∣sterides, Catieria, Alopece, Elaeussa, Bachina, Pystira, Crommyonnesus, and Megale. And iust [unspec I] before Troas, the Isles Ascaniae, and three Plateae. Then the Lamiae, and two Plitaniae. Moreo∣uer, the Islands Plate, Scopelos, Getone, Artheidon, Celae, Lagussae, and Didymae. But the most stately of all others in this sea, is Lesbos, which lies from Chios threescore and fiue miles. Na∣med it was in times past, Hemerte, Lasia, Pelasgia, Aegira, Aethiope and Macaria: within it were eight townes of name; whereof one, namely Pyrrha, is swallowed vp of the sea: and another, to wit, Arisbe, ouerthrown by an earthquake. As for the Isle Methymna was peopled from An∣tissa, which was vnited to it, and wherein were eight townes, and is about seuen and thirtie miles from * 1.5 Asia the lesse. As for the townes Agamede and Hiera which were in it, gone they be now and vtterly perished. Yet there remaine Eresos, Pyrrha, and Mitylenae, which hath con∣tinued for fiue hundred yeeres, mighty and puissant. Isidorus saith, That this Island is in circuit [unspec K] about a hundred seuenty and three miles: but the old Geographers, a hundred ninety and fiue. In it are these mountaines, Lepethymus, Ordymnus, Maristus, Creon, and Olympus. Eight miles and a halfe it is from the Continent, where it lieth neerest. About this Island Lesbos, there lie neere at hand other little ones, namely, Saudalion, and the fiue Leucae. Of which Cy∣donea is one, wherein is a fountaine of hot water. As for Argenussae, from thence to Aegae is reckoned foure miles. There are besides in this coast Phellusa, & Pedua. Now without Helle∣spont, ouer-against the bay and cape Sigeum, lieth the Isle Tenedus, called sometimes Leuco∣phrys, Phaenice, and Lyrnessos. From Lesbos it is six and fifty miles, and from Sigaeum twelue miles and a halfe.

CHAP. XXXII. [unspec L]

¶ Hellespontus, Mysia, Phrygia, Gallatia, Bithynia, Bosphorus.

LEt vs now leaue the Isles in the sea Aegeum, and come to Hellespont, now called the * 1.6 streights of Callipolis: whereinto the maine sea gushes with a mighty force and violence, with his gulfes and whirlepooles, digging before him a way, vntil he haue limited and di∣uided Asia from Europe. The promontory first appearing there, we named Trapeza. From which tenne miles off, standeth the towne Abidum, where the streights are but seuen stadia ouer. Beyond it is Percote the towne: and Lampsacum, called before-time Pityusa. Moreouer, the Colonie Parium, which Homer named Adrastia. Moreouer, the towne Priapos, the riuer Aesepus and the cape Zelia. Then come ye to Propontus, for so is the place called where the sea [unspec M] begins to enlarge it selfe. Into this channell runneth the riuer Granicum, which maketh the ha∣uen Artace, where once stood a towne. Beyond it there is an Island, which Alexander the Great ioined to the Continent [by two bridges, according to Strabo] in which standeth the towne Cy∣zicum,

founded by the Milesians, called heretofore Arconnesos, Dolionis, & Dindymis, neere [unspec A] the top whereof is the mountaine Dindymus. When ye are beyond Cizycum, you meet with these townes besides, Placia, Ariacos, Scylacum, & behind them, the hill Olympus, called som∣time Maesius. Also the city Olympena. The riuers Horisius and Rhyndacus, named heretofore Lycus. This riuer taketh his beginning in the marish or meere Artynia, neere to Miletopolis. It receiueth into it Marestos, and many others, and parteth Asia from Bithynia. This region in antient time was called Cronia: after, Thessalis: then Malianda, and Strymonis. All this na∣tion of these quarters, Homer named Halizones, for that they be enuironed with the sea. Therein stood in old time a mighty great city named Attusa. At this day it hath 15 cities, amongst which is Gordiu-come, now called Iuliopolis: and in the very coast vpon the sea, Dascylos. Go further on and ye meet with the riuer Gebes: and within the main, the towne Helgas, the same [unspec B] that Germanicopolis, knowne also by another name, Booscoete, as also Apamea, now called Myrtea of the Colophonians. Being past it, you come to the riuer Etheleum, the antient limit of Troas, where Mysia beginneth. Afterwards you enter into the gulfe of Bryllion, whereinto runneth the riuer Ascanium, vpon which standeth the towne Bryllion, and beyond it you shall see the riuers Helas and Cios, together with a town of that name. A mart town this was wher∣to resorted the Phrygians that border neere to it, for to traffique and furnish themselues with merchandise: built verily it was by the Milesians: but the place whereon it stood was called Ascania of Phrygia. And therefore me-thinks we cannot do b•…•…er than euen here to speake of that country. Phrygia then spreadeth out aboue Troas and the n•…•…ions before-named, from the [unspec C] cape Lectus vnto the riuer Etheleus. It confronteth on the North side vpon part of Galatia, Southward it boundeth hard to Lycaonia, Pisidia, and Mygdonia. And on the East part it rea∣cheth to Cappadocia. The townes of greatest name, besides those before rehearsed, be Ancy∣ra, Andria, Celaenae, Colossae, Carina, Cotiaion, Ceranae, Iconium, and Midaion. Certain Au∣thors I haue, who write, that out of Europe there come to inhabit these parts, the Mysi, Brvges, and Thyni, of whom are descended and likewise named, the Mysians, Phrygians, and Bithyni∣ans.

And euen here I think it good to write also of Galatia, which lying higher than Phrygia, yet possesseth a greater part of the plaine countrey thereof, yea and the capitall place of it, some∣time called Gordium. They that inhabited and held that quarter of Phrygia were Gaules, cal∣led [unspec D] Tolistobogi, Voturi, and Ambitui: but they that occupied the countreys of Maeonia and Paphlagonia were named Trochmi. This region confronteth Cappadocia on the North and East side, and the most fruitfull part thereof the Tectosages and Teutobodiaci kept in their possession. And so much for the principall nations of this countrey. As for the States, Tetrar∣chies, and regiments, there be in all 195. The townes are these: of the Tectosages, Ancvra: of the Trochmi, Tavium: of the Tolistobogians, Pesinus. Besides these, there be States of good account, Attalenses, Arasenses, Comenses, Dios hieronitae, Lystreni, Neapolitani, Oeandenses, Seleucenses, Sebasteni, Timmoniacenses, and Tebaseni. This Galatia extendeth euen as far as to Gabalia and Milyae in Pamphylia, which are scituate about Baris: also Cylla•…•…ticum and Oroadicum, the marches of Pisidia, likewise Obigene, part of Lycaonia. Riuers there be in it, beside those before named, Sangarium and Gallus, of which riuer, the gelded priests of dame [unspec E] Cybelae, mother of the gods, were named Galli. Now it resteth to speake of the towns vpon the sea coast. Yet I cannot ouerpasse Prusa neere to Cios, which lieth farre within the countrey of Bithynia, which Anniball founded at the foot of the hill Olympus: from Prusa to Nicaea are counted 25 miles: in which way lieth the lake Ascanius betweene. Then come you to Nic•…•…a in the very vtmost part of the gulf Ascanium, which before was called Olbia: also to another Prusa, built vnder the mountaine Hippius. Once there were in this coast Pythopolis, Parthe∣•…•…opolis, and Coryphanta. And now there be vpon the sea side these riuers, Aesius, Bryazon, Pla∣taneus, Areus, Siros, Gendos, named also Chrysorrhoas. The promontory also, vpon which stood the towne Megaricum. Then the gulfe or arme of the sea which was called Craspedi∣tes; for that that towne before named stood as it were in a fold, plait, or nouke thereof. Some∣times [unspec F] also there was the towne Astacum, whereupon the Creeke tooke the name of Astace∣nus. Moreouer, in antient time, the Towne Libyssa, by report, was planted there: But now there remaineth nothing else to be seen but the tombe of Anniball. But in the inmost part of the Gulfe, where it endeth, there standeth the goodly faire City of Bithynia called Nico∣media.

The cape Leucatas, which incloseth the gulfe Astarenus, is from Nicomedia 42 miles [unspec G] and halfe. Being past this gulfe, the sea begins to streighten again, and the land to meet neer to∣gether; and these streights reach as far as Bosphorus in Thracia. Vpon these streights stands the free city Chalcedon, 72 miles and a halfe from Nicomedia. Before-time it was called Pro∣cerastis: then Compusa: afterwards, the city of the Blind, for that they who founded it, being in a place but 7 stadia from Bizantium, where was a seat in all respects more commodious and fit for a city, were so blind as not to chuse it for the plot of Chalcedon. But within the firme land of Bithynia is the colony Apamena: and there inhabit also the Agrippenses, Iuliopolites, and they of Bithynium. Moreouer, for riuers ye haue Syrium, Lapsias, Pharmicas, Alces, Cry∣nis, Lylaeus, Scopius, Hieras, which parteth Bithynia from Galatia. Beyond Chalcedon stood Chrysopolis: then Nicopolis, of which the gulfe still retaines the name, wherein is the hauen of Amycus: the cape Naulocum, Estia, wherein is the temple of Neptune: and the Bosphorus, [unspec H] a streight halfe a mile ouer, which now once again parteth Asia and Europe. From Chalcedon it is 12 miles and an halfe. There beginneth the sea to open wider, where it is 8 miles & a quar∣ter ouer, in that place where stood once the towne Philopolis. All the maritime coasts are in∣habited by the Thyni, but the inland parts by the Bithynians. Lo here an end of Asia, and of 282 nations, which are reckoned from the limits and gulf of Lycia, vnto the streights of Con∣stantinople. The space of the streights of Hellespont and Propontis together, vntill you come to Bosphorus in Thracia containeth in length 188 miles, as we haue before said. From Chal∣cedon to Sigeum, by the computation of Isidor, are 372 miles and a halfe. Islands lying in Pro∣pontis before Cyzicum, are these, Elaphonnesus, from whence commeth the Cyzicen marble; and the same Isle was called Neuris, and Proconnesus. Then follow Ophyusa, Acanthus, Phoe∣be, [unspec I] Scopelos, Porphyrione, and Halone with a towne. Moreouer, Delphacia and Polydora, also Artacaeon, with the towne. Furthermore, ouer against Nicomedia is Demonnesos: likewise beyond Heraclea, iust against Bithynia, is Thynias, which the Barbarians call Bithynia. Ouer and besides, Antiochia: and against the fosse or riuer Rhyndacus, Besbicos, 18 miles about. Last of all, Elaea, two Rhodussae, Erebinthus, Magale, Chalcitis, and Pityodes.

Notes

• * 1.1

  It seemeth that this clause is to be set in the beginning of the next chapter.
• * 1.2

  Or 1500 pa∣ces, i. a mile and a half:
• * 1.3

  The citie •…•…piter.
• * 1.4

  Rachobe•…•….
• * 1.5

  Natoli•…•…
• * 1.6

  Archipelago.