in Ancient Geography, a very old and famous city of Crete, at the north-western end of the island. It is said to have been built by the Samians, who had established themselves in the island, but the traditions of Crete all point to a much earlier origin of the city. In later times the Æginetans colonized Cydonia, which on that account experienced the full hostility of the Athenians during the Peloponnesian war. In the sacred war Cydonia was attacked by Phaleucus, the Phocian general, who fell with the greater part of his army before the walls of the town. The first battle which was fought in Crete by the Romans against the natives took place close to Cydonia. Their army under Metellus was victorious. For an account of the feuds which prevailed between Cydonia and Cnossus, see CRETE and CNOSUS.

quince, so called from Cydonia the above-mentioned city, the gardens in its neighbourhood abounding in this fruit.