an island in the Archipelago, anciently called Cytherea; noted for being the birthplace of Helen, and, as the poets say, of Venus. At present there is nothing very delightful in the place; for the country is mountainous, and the soil dry. It abounds in hares, quail, turtle, and excellent falcons. It is about 50 miles in circumference, and had formerly good towns; but there is now none remaining but that which gives name to the island. This is strong both by art and nature, it being seated on a craggy rock. The inhabitants are Greek Christians, and subject to the Venetians, who keep a governor there, whom they change every two years.